Mumbai, Maharashtra: Fans thronged cinemas across India on Thursday for the release of Rajinikanth’s new film Coolie. The movie drew widespread attention on its opening day, with theatres in Chennai and across Tamil Nadu reporting tight seating.

Earlier this week, the Tamil Nadu government has granted permission to Sun Pictures, the producers of "Coolie", to hold special screenings across the state on the film's opening day.

Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, the highly anticipated action drama, had earlier submitted a formal request to the state government seeking approval for special shows on the first day of release.

On Tuesday, the government accepted the proposal, allowing theatres to begin screenings from 9 a.m. on August 14.

As per the official order, cinema halls will be permitted to run a maximum of five shows of "Coolie" between 9 a.m. on Thursday and 2 a.m. on Friday.

The move comes in response to the massive demand for tickets, with trade analysts predicting record-breaking box office collections for the opening weekend.

The government, while granting permission, has also directed theatre owners and multiplex operators to take adequate safety measures to prevent overcrowding.

Authorities have advised cinema complexes to manage queues efficiently, ensure smooth ticket checking, and deploy additional security to handle the expected rush.

"Coolie" brings together an ensemble cast alongside Rajinikanth, including veteran actor Sathyaraj, Telugu superstar Nagarjuna, Malayalam actor Soubin Shahir, Kannada star Upendra, Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, and Shruti Haasan in pivotal roles.

The film is expected to blend high-octane action with Lokesh Kanagaraj's trademark storytelling style, making it one of the most awaited Tamil releases of the year.

Feeling surreal and spellbound, says Kanagaraj

Kanagaraj penned a gratitude note for Thalaiva on his X, saying, "With just a few hours to go for Coolie's release, I'm feeling surreal and spellbound. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to my Thalaivar, Rajinikanth sir for giving me the opportunity to craft this film with complete creative freedom and to bring my vision to life through him."

Praising the core cast of the drama for enhancing the whole cinematic journey, the director added, "A special thanks to the incredible cast who made this journey even more memorable - King Nagarjuna sir, Real Star Upendra sir, Soubin sir, Sathyaraj sir, Shruti Haasan, and to helm it all, my dear Aamir Khan sir, whose presence made it even more special."

Kanagaraj also thanked his crew for giving their all to "Coolie". "I also want to express my deepest gratitude to my crew, who have each been a pillar of strength and dedication. Over nearly two years, they have given their all to support and realize this vision. I will forever be grateful to each and every person who has contributed to this film in any way," he wrote.

Last but not least, the 'Leo' maker showed his gratitude to the viewers for showering the project with love and support, "And to all my dear audience, thank you for all the love and support you've showed me and this film. Coolie will be all yours in a few hours."

He further requested moviegoers not to share any spoilers with others. "I sincerely hope you have a spectacular theatrical experience, and I kindly request you all to refrain from sharing any spoilers from the film," Kanagaraj added.

"Coolie is a standalone film for my Thalaivar Superstar Rajinikanth sir," the 'Vikram' maker concluded.