The Diwali weekend just got a whole lot more thrilling for movie buffs, as Pradeep Ranganathan’s debut film, Dude, has taken the box office by storm, raking in an impressive Rs 51 crore worldwide in just its first three days. This Tamil-Telugu bilingual, directed by Keerthiswaran, stars Pradeep alongside Mamitha Baiju in a delightful Gen-Z romance-comedy that resonates with both young audiences and families alike.
In India, Dude pulled in Rs 30 crore nett, with Tamil Nadu leading the charge at Rs 21.5 crore. The Telugu-speaking states contributed Rs 9.35 crore, while Kerala added over Rs 1.8 crore to the mix. The film’s charm lies in its relatable storytelling, sharp humor, and genuine depiction of modern youth romance, which has sparked strong word-of-mouth buzz.
Critics have lauded the film for its humor and authenticity, although a few pointed out some minor inconsistencies in the second half. Nevertheless, the audience reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, as evidenced by BookMyShow sales exceeding 870,000 tickets during the opening weekend alone.
Mahesh Kale Live with the Budapest Scoring Orchestra Creates History at NMACC
Feb 23, 2026Dude’s record-breaking debut underscores the growing demand for regional films that resonate on a pan-Indian level. With its relatable characters, catchy dialogues, and perfect timing during the Diwali festivities, the film has truly found a special place in the hearts of viewers, establishing Pradeep Ranganathan as a promising new talent in Indian cinema.
