Priyanka packs a punch; 'Mary Kom' collects over Rs.17 cr

New Delhi: If Priyanka Chopra's role in "Mary Kom" as the five-time World boxing champion has changed the definition of "hero", the movie's producers too have a reason to smile as it has raked in Rs.17.25 crore in two days since release.

Based on the life of boxing champion M.C. Mary Kom, the unconventionally made biopic, which released Friday in 1,800 screens in the country, has many high points - Omung Kumar's deft direction, convincing adaptation of real life story, and last but not the least - Priyanka's "wow and convincing" performance.

Although biopics too take creative liberties, Kumar has tried to be as realistic as possible.

All that helped the film earn Rs.17.25 crore in just two days, said a source.

An excited Priyanka took to Twitter to thank fans for the "overwhelming" response to the biopic, which has been panned by some critics.

"Thank you for the incredible response to #MaryKom. I guess this film was such a heart wrenching experience that the love is just overwhelming (sic)," she tweeted Saturday.

Also starring newcomer Darshan Kumar, it is directed by Omung Kumar and co-produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Viacom18 Motion Pictures.

The release was preceded by a world premiere at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival.

The Hindi film fraternity also lauded the film on social networking sites. Here's what celebrities have to say:

Punit Malhotra: Watched Mary Kom last night (Saturday). Super film. And only one person could do that role. Hats off! @priyankachopra. (sic)

Anubhav Sinha: #MaryKom does 8Cr on day one. No Skin. No Music. Hero Definition readjusted. #HUGE #COURAGE #OMUNG #SANJAY #VIACOM @priyankachopra

Swara Bhaskar: #MaryKom ! What an inspiring tale...The sportsperson a true hero, the role player a true actor! @priyankachopra TREMENDOUS work #respect !!