Taapsee Pannu and filmmaker Anubhav Sinha have a reputation for backing stories that arrive with a punch, but their latest reunion, Assi, has begun its theatrical run on a muted note at the ticket window. The courtroom drama released in cinemas on February 20, 2026, and early trade estimates suggest the film collected Rs 1 crore net in India on Day 1, making it Taapsee’s lowest opening day since Dobaaraa (2022). Director – actor duo’s previous hit Thappad opened to 2.50 crore net and so opening is far lower than that.
The slow start is being attributed to a combination of factors, including relatively soft pre-release buzz and a crowded marketplace that has left audiences with multiple options in theatres this weekend. With word of mouth now crucial, the film’s weekend trend will be closely watched to see if it can build beyond its opening day base.
Day 1 Box Office Update
As per industry estimates, Assi opened to around Rs 1 crore net in India on its first day, translating to approximately Rs 1 – 1.05 crore net collections. The figure places it behind another fresh release, Do Deewane Seher Mein, which is also reported to have started better on Day 1.
The report also notes that Assi is facing stiff competition from multiple ongoing titles in cinemas, including O’Romeo, Mardaani 3, and Border 2, making its hold over the coming days even more important.
About Assi
Directed by Anubhav Sinha, Assi is positioned as a hard hitting courtroom drama anchored by Taapsee Pannu as a lawyer. The film features an ensemble cast that includes Kani Kusruti, Revathi, Kumud Mishra, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Manoj Pahwa, Supriya Pathak, Seema Pahwa, and Naseeruddin Shah. The story follows the aftermath of a sexual assault case and the legal battle that unfolds, using the justice system as the film’s primary battleground.
The film is presented by Gulshan Kumar and T-Series, and produced by Benaras Mediaworks along with Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, and Anubhav Sinha.
Taapsee Pannu’s Recent And Upcoming Work
Over the last few years, Taapsee has balanced theatrical films with streaming led projects, often staying in the space of socially driven dramas and genre thrillers. Her notable theatrical outings in the past 48 months include Dobaaraa (2022), Dunki (2023) and Khel Khel Mein (2024), where she was part of an ensemble led by Akshay Kumar.
On the upcoming slate, Taapsee is set to be seen in Woh Ladki Hai Kahaan? opposite Pratik Gandhi. The film has been announced, but its release date has not been officially confirmed yet.
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