Movie Review: Thank You For Coming - 3.5/5

# Mayasabha's Disappointing Box Office Debut: Did Tumbbad Magic Fade in the Hall of Illusion? **Imagine the hype:** A cult director behind a modern classic like *Tumbbad* unleashes a psychological thriller set in an abandoned Mumbai theatre, starring Jaaved Jaaferi chasing hidden gold amid greed and betrayal. Yet, *Mayasabha – The Hall of Illusion* opened to just **Rs 12 lakhs** on day 1.[2] Released on January 30, 2026, Rahi Anil Barve's second feature stars **Jaaved Jaaferi** as a paranoid recluse living with his son in a crumbling theatre once owned by his father, rumored to hide 40 kg of gold.[1][4][5] When scheming strangers Zeenat (Veena Jamkar) and Raorana (Deepak Damle) arrive, suspicion erupts into a tense cat-and-mouse game, exploring human greed and family secrets.[1][4] Mohammed Samad rounds out the cast as the innocent son.[2] Critics praise Jaaved's standout performance—convincing, emotionally charged, and a highlight in a convoluted plot—alongside strong turns from Veena and Samad.[4][5] The core twist and immersive setup draw nods, but many fault the film for lacking emotional depth, illogical stretches, and a dark tone that doesn't hook mass audiences.[2][4][5] One review calls it a "convoluted tale" best for genre fans, predicting box office struggles due to limited appeal and poor publicity.[4] The real killer? Fierce competition. *Mardaani 3* with Rani Mukerji and *Gandhi Talks* starring Aditi Rao Hydari and Vijay Sethupathi dominated screens, leaving *Mayasabha* in the dust despite its fantasy thriller promise.[2] Early reports confirm India gross at Rs 12 lakhs (matching Hindi net), worldwide at Rs 13 lakhs—dismal for a film with Barve's pedigree.[2]

*An eerie abandoned theatre, mirroring Mayasabha's haunting world of illusion and greed. (Unsplash free stock image)*

Barve, fresh off *Tumbbad*'s legacy, poured years into ambitious projects, but industry shifts favor safer bets—echoing his lament that even *Sacred Games* might not fly today.[1] Will word-of-mouth save it for niche viewers, or is this a cautionary tale for bold cinema? What do you think—worth a watch for Jaaved's shine, or skip amid the competition? **Drop your thoughts in the comments below, share this post if you're Team Tumbbad, or tell us your must-see 2026 release!**
Citations
1.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/tumbbad-director-rahi-anil-barve-on-stalled-projects-and-mayasabha-even-sacred-games-wont-see-the-light-of-day/articleshow/127718053.cms
2.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/mayasabha-box-office-collections-day-1-jaaved-jaaferi-film-gets-tough-fight-makes-only-rs-12-lakhs/articleshow/127812452.cms
3.https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/mayasabha/box-office/
4.https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/mayasabha-review-jaaved-jaaferi-shines-in-this-convoluted-tale-of-greed-filled-quest-for-the-gold
5.https://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-movies/movie-reviews/mayasabha-the-hall-of-illusion-movie-review/
6.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hindi_films_of_2026
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