Box Office: 3 unexpected recent Tamil movies that emerged successful, from Madha Gaja Raja to Tourist Family
From Madha Gaja Raja to Tourist Family, these 3 recent Tamil films prove that content-driven cinema can rise against the odds and succeed

Not every box office win comes from a grand launch or a superstar cast. Some films slip in quietly and build their path, one ticket at a time. Vishal's Madha Gaja Raja, Sasikumar's Tourist Family, and Harish Kalyan and Gethu Dinesh's Lubber Pandhu are three such recent Tamil films that proved content still finds its way to success.
Madha Gaja Raja is the most unlikely winner on this list. Shot in 2012, the film faced endless delays before its 2025 release. Directed by Sundar C. and produced by Gemini Film Circuit, the action-comedy stars Vishal in his prime mass-hero avatar. The jokes still land, the action remains fun, and audiences embraced the nostalgic flavor. Over 35 days, it quietly built momentum, ending its run with a worldwide gross of around Rs 56 crore. For a film that almost never released, it turned out to be one of the biggest earners of the year.
Then there’s Tourist Family, the underdog that everyone is now talking about. Directed by newcomer Abishan Jeevinth and backed by Million Dollar Studios and MRP Entertainment, the film revolves around a Sri Lankan Tamil family’s first trip to Tamil Nadu, for a re-settlement. It stars Sasikumar and Simran, both delivering grounded performances. What started with limited shows on May Day is now growing stronger each week. The film crossed Rs 10 crore in just a week in Tamil Nadu, performing better than bigger-budget titles thanks to its honesty and heart.
Lubber Pandhu, directed by Tamizharasan Pachamuthu and produced by Prince Pictures, tells the tale of gully cricket rivalry and young love. Harish Kalyan and Gethu Dinesh play the leads, with Swasika Vijay earning much praise. From its sharp screenplay to Sean Roldan’s music, everything clicked, though slowly. Many people originally ignored it, but after a slow start, it gained momentum and made Rs 42.5 crore.
Needless to say, Tamil moviegoers have rewarded the sincerity of these three films. Connection is the key to staying strong, even when eye-catching advertisements may start the race. And each of these movies accomplished that in a unique way.