Bhoothnath Returns box office collections top Rs 18 cr in three days

Bhoothnath Returns, the Amitabh Bachchan-starrer, has not only opened to a positive response from both the critics and audiences, but has also proved to be commercially viable.

The recently-released movie has earned over Rs 18 crore in its opening weekend at the domestic box office.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the second of instalment of 2008 film "Bhootnath" hit the screens April 11 and critics appreciated the film saying it is an "ennobling voyage into Indian elections", "utterly entertaining" and "it's entertainment Bachchan style!"

Also starring child actor Parth Bhalerao, who was called the film's hero by Big B, "Bhoothnath Returns" carries a social message interspersed with dollops of entertainment.

"'Bhoothnath Returns' (has collected) Rs 18.02 crore nett. India business. Excellent growth over the weekend," trade analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted on Monday.

Cinegoers, too, had positive words for the film.

"'Bhoothnath Returns' should be telecast nationwide to the masses. Such a brilliantly made movie, with a profound message and suitably released around election time," said one of the moviegoers.