Taking to social media, the filmmaker applauded the actress for her star power, saying she continues to attract audiences to theatres at a time when box office footfalls remain a challenge. He also encouraged moviegoers to catch Alpha on the big screen.

Karan Johar On Alia's Box Office Pull

Sharing a note on his Instagram Story, Karan wrote, "When footfalls are a challenge, Alpha takes a solid start! It emphasises many things… the audience is way above online negativity, and they are the true warriors… the stardom and theatrical pull and unquestionable talent of Alia Bhatt and the impact of a big screen spectacle is unbeatable…"

© YRF

Karan Johar concluded his note by praising Yash Raj Films for continuing to invest in large-scale theatrical spectacles and urged people to celebrate cinema instead of focusing on negativity online. "…And that YRF has a continued franchise and an endeavour to create theatrical tentpole experiences that need our applause and not any toxicity! So please relax and celebrate that cinemas are breathing!! Go watch Alpha and stop doomscrolling!!"

© Instagram/Karan Johar

Released on July 3, Alpha has opened to mixed reactions from both critics and audiences, with opinions divided over various aspects of the film.

Alpha got off to a respectable start at the box office on its opening day. The action thriller collected an estimated ₹9.25 crore on Day 1 across 7,534 shows, marking a decent beginning to its theatrical run.

About Alpha

Directed by Shiv Rawail, Alpha features Alia Bhatt in the lead role of Sita, alongside Sharvari as Durga. The film also stars Anil Kapoor as Vikrant and Bobby Deol as the antagonist, Fateh. Expanding the YRF Spy Universe, Alpha includes a special cameo by Hrithik Roshan, who reprises his popular character Kabir from the War franchise.