Sudeep's Maanikya strikes gold at box office

The movie released May 1 in the state. It is expected to register the highest first week opening in the language in recent times, predicts a trade analyst.

Made on a budget of Rs.18 crore, "Maanikya" was also helmed by Sudeep.

"In its opening weekend, the film has collected Rs.14 crore in Karnataka. The film's budget may be Rs.18 crore, but going by its box office prospects, it's sure to register the biggest ever first week opening in Kannada cinema," trade analyst Trinath told IANS.

"The first week's collection is expected to be around Rs.20 crore. Unlike other industries, most Kannada hits only make it to the Rs.10 crore club and rarely go beyond that. But 'Maanikya' has turned out to be an exception," he said.

Sudeep, who is known for directing the remakes of several southern hits, has so far remade Tamil and Telugu films such as "Singam" and "Lakshyama, respectively.