When she came into the film industry some six years, Janhvi Kapoor was tentative. A newcomer with little experience in public life, she worked her way to being more comfortable, both in front of the camera and also as a public figure. She was quick to see success, both commercially and critically.
But even as Janhvi appeared in a number of films that earned her praise, the spectre of nepotism refused to leave her. Now, it seems that the actress Janhvi is surpassing the star Janhvi, and without compromising on box office returns. That is a sweet spot very few young actors have hit in their careers right now.
And for that, the 27-year-old must be credited. It’s been a little over a week that Mr & Mrs Mahi, her last film, released in the theatres. In that time, the small-budget sports drama has earned Rs 32 crore worldwide and is set to cross Rs 50 crore soon.
It’s no mean feat considering the film is not a mass event and the reviews – while positive – were not glowing. But one thing was constant, both the leads – Janhvi and Rajkummar Rao – were praised. The audiences have connected with the story and the box office returns show.
Janhvi’s performances have earned praise in the past too, in films like Gunjan Saxena, Good Luck Jerry, and Mili. But the first two of those were streaming releases. And Mili, despite the praise it earned, did not create a splash at the box office.
Janhvi was getting praise but her films were not doing well commercially. Then Mr & Mrs Mahi.
