According to the MAI, the rise was driven by a diverse range of films across languages and genres, indicating sustained public interest in the theatrical experience.
The box office collections across Indian multiplexes increased 21% in the first six months of 2026 compared with the same period last year, as per the Multiplex Association of India (MAI).
According to the industry group, the rise was driven by a diverse range of films across languages and genres, indicating sustained public interest in the theatrical experience.
Border 2, Dhurandhar 2, Project Hail Mary, Michael, Bhoot Bangla, Obsession, Raja Shivaji, Karuppu, Mein Vaapas Aaunga, Cocktail 2, and Welcome to the Jungle were some of the releases that helped boost the performance.
Kamal Gianchandani, President of MAI, commented on the figures, saying, “The first half of 2026 highlighted the strength and ongoing popularity of the theatrical business. A well-balanced combination of blockbuster franchises, fresh tales, regional cinema, and foreign releases has captivated viewers throughout India. The 21% year-on-year rise demonstrates that customers continue to enjoy the immersive, community experience that theaters uniquely provide.”
Footfall in metropolitan areas, as well as Tier II and Tier III markets, continued to support growth. It further stated that the performance of Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and overseas films represented the diversity of audience tastes.
Looking ahead, the organization predicts that the second half of 2026 will benefit from a robust pipeline of incoming films, which might boost cinema attendance and box office receipts.
Devang Sampat, Managing Director of Cinepolis India, stated, “The industry’s performance shows the collaborative efforts of producers, distributors, exhibitors, and filmmakers in producing a consistent pipeline of great cinema. As the release calendar strengthens, we remain hopeful about continuing on this favorable path into the second half of the year. A steady and dependable supply of theatrical releases is still the single most significant engine of long-term industry development.
MAI is anticipated to continue collaborating with producers, distributors, filmmakers, and other stakeholders to assist the expansion of theatrical exhibition in India.
