Sarkaru Vaari Paata, Mahesh Babu’s latest Telugu release, opened well in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on its first day. Despite mixed reviews, the film earned Rs. 36.63 crore on its opening day, according to trade sources. The film is directed by Parasuram and stars Mahesh Babu as a loan agent alongside Keerthy Suresh.

The film marks Mahesh Babu’s first collaboration with director Parasuram. Ramesh Bala, an industry tracker, tweeted that the film made Rs. 36.63 crore on its first day in Telugu-speaking states. According to Ramesh Bala’s tweet, the film had the second best opening day in the states, trailing only SS Rajamouli’s RRR.

“Sarkaru Vaari Paata is the kind of film that works when it lets Mahesh Babu have a lot of fun with his character,” wrote the Hindustan Times in its review of the film. It maintains a consistent tone throughout the film, but falters in the few moments when it wants to be taken seriously.”

Mahesh made headlines just days before the film’s release when he said Bollywood couldn’t afford him. “I may come across as arrogant, but I have received numerous offers in Hindi.” However, I believe they cannot afford me. I don’t want to squander any of my time. I never considered leaving Telugu cinema because of the fame and love I have here. I’ve always imagined making films here and seeing them grow in popularity, and that dream is now becoming a reality. “I’m overjoyed,” she says.

Mahesh will begin work on his next project with Trivikram in the near future. Pooja Hegde has been cast as the film’s female lead. After Athadu and Khaleja, this will be Mahesh’s third project with Trivikram, as they reunite after a decade apart.

Mahesh went on a family vacation to Paris last week, just days before the film’s release. Namrata Shirodkar, Mahesh’s wife, shared photos from the trip on her Instagram page and in Instagram stories.