The visuals and Kajol's intense mother fighting supernatural forces generated a lot of interest among fans and trade experts.
But since then the buzz has died down a bit and the film has a tough road ahead of it.
Sitaare Zameen Par is doing well in urban centers and has found favor with family audience.
This is a competitive space for Maa as both films are targeting similar audience.
Maa gives Kajol a rare solo lead opportunity to carry a film on her shoulders, but her recent box office record is mixed.
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Her last big success was Tanhaji in 2020 and she has had limited releases since then.
The mythological horror angle and connection to Shaitaan universe is an interesting layer but it remains to be seen if it will translate into big numbers.
In short Maa has a tough Friday. The initial excitement has cooled and with Sitaare Zameen Par in the competition, the film will have to rely on word of mouth and its unique genre to make an impact.
Kajol's fans will be hoping this is a comeback film for her in a genre that Bollywood has not fully explored yet.