May 2026 Box Office Report: ‘Karuppu’ becomes number-1, dominance of South films, many big names included in top-5

New Delhi . May 2026 proved to be a great year for the Indian film industry. Many big films released this month not only won the hearts of the audience but also made record breaking earnings at the box office. Now the box office report of May 2026 released by Ormax Media has made it clear that this time the power of South cinema was seen the most. In the list of top-5 highest grossing films, films of Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi, Hollywood and Marathi cinema registered their strong presence.

The first place in this list has been achieved by Tamil superstar Suriya’s film ‘Karuppu’. Released on May 14, the film did a spectacular business of Rs 299 crore at the box office. The film received positive response from both audiences and critics. Directed by RJ Balaji, this fantasy action drama film raises serious issues like policing, corrupt justice system and exploitation of weaker sections in the society. The pairing of Surya and Trisha Krishnan in the film was also highly appreciated.

At second place was Malayalam superstar Mohanlal’s much awaited film ‘Drishyam 3’. This suspense-thriller film, released on May 21, earned Rs 133 crore. Directed by Jeetu Joseph, this film once again proved the popularity of ‘Drishyam’ franchise. The acting of actors like Meena, Ansiba Hassan, Esther Anil and Asha Sharath along with Mohanlal was highly appreciated by the audience.

Bollywood actor Ritesh Deshmukh’s historical film ‘Raja Shivaji’ stood at the third place. This film, released on May 1, also did a business of Rs 133 crore. Apart from Ritesh Deshmukh, many big actors like Genelia Deshmukh, Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan and Bhagyashree were seen in this film based on the life and struggle of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film was praised for its lavish production and strong presentation.

Hollywood film ‘Obsession’ was at fourth place, which earned Rs 102 crore at the Indian box office. This film of psychological horror and thriller genre kept the audience engaged with its mysterious story and suspense. The film effectively shows the dangerous consequences of unrequited love and passion.

At fifth place was Marathi film ‘Deol Band 2’, which did a business of Rs 90 crore. This film focuses on the problems of farmers, suicide and the conflict of faith and unbelief in rural Maharashtra. This film of director Praveen Tarde was highly appreciated for its social message and emotional presentation.

This report for May 2026 shows that audiences are now giving priority to strong storytelling and impactful content, not just star power. This is why films in different languages ​​have proved again the diversity and strength of Indian cinema by performing brilliantly at the box office.