Kiccha Sudeep’s Mark and Darshan’s The Devil have become the talk of the Kannada film industry, with both films releasing in close succession and drawing massive crowds. Fans were eager to see how these two star-driven projects would perform at the box office, especially on their opening day. The clash between the two films has created a buzz not just in Karnataka but across India, as both actors enjoy a loyal fan base and strong market presence.
On its first day, Mark managed to collect around ₹4-5 crore gross worldwide. The film opened with solid occupancy in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and other regions, proving Sudeep’s enduring popularity. Audiences praised the film’s action sequences and emotional depth, which helped sustain strong footfalls throughout the day. Despite being slightly lower than some of Sudeep’s past blockbusters, the opening was considered a respectable start, setting the stage for a promising weekend run.
Darshan’s The Devil, however, edged ahead in terms of numbers. The film recorded approximately ₹10 crore net on Day 1, with higher occupancy across Karnataka. Despite controversies surrounding the actor, his fan following ensured packed theatres and strong collections. The film’s mass appeal and wide screen allocation gave it an advantage, allowing it to surpass Mark in the opening day tally. This performance reaffirmed Darshan’s box office dominance in the Kannada industry.
While The Devil took the lead initially, the real test lies in the coming days. Positive word-of-mouth for Mark could help it close the gap, while The Devil will rely on its fan-driven momentum to maintain its edge. Both films highlight the power of star-driven cinema in Karnataka, and their box office battle has added excitement to the industry. Ultimately, the weekend collections will determine which film emerges stronger, but for now, Darshan’s The Devil holds the advantage over Sudeep’s Mark.
