Box Office Buzz: 'Ishq Express' Hits Screens – Will it Deliver?

Bollywood is buzzing! 'Ishq Express,' starring the fresh pairing of Rohan Mehra and Kriti Sanon's younger sister, Nupur Sanon, finally steamed into cinemas this Friday, March 18, 2026. The romantic comedy, directed by debutant Ananya Verma, promises a light-hearted take on modern relationships and cross-country travel. Will it capture audiences' hearts and wallets? Early reviews are mixed, but the pre-release hype has been undeniable.

The film follows the story of two strangers, Aisha (Nupur Sanon) and Veer (Rohan Mehra), who find themselves on a spontaneous train journey across India. Aisha, a free-spirited photographer escaping an arranged marriage, clashes with Veer, a corporate lawyer on a mission to save his family business. As they traverse through vibrant landscapes and quirky encounters, their initial animosity transforms into something more. Veteran actors Paresh Rawal and Supriya Pathak add their comedic flair in supporting roles, playing eccentric fellow travelers.

Initial Reactions to 'Ishq Express': Love it or Leave it?

Audience reactions have been polarized. While some are charmed by the film's breezy narrative and the lead pair's chemistry, others find the plot predictable and the humor forced. "Rohan and Nupur are adorable together! The film is a perfect weekend watch," tweeted @BollywoodFanGirl26. However, @CriticBaba wrote, "'Ishq Express' tries too hard to be quirky. The script lacks depth, and the jokes fall flat."

Reportersays that box office numbers will be crucial in determining the film's fate. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted that the film earned ₹8.5 crore on its opening day. "'Ishq Express' needs to maintain momentum over the weekend to be declared a success," he stated.

Nupur Sanon Shines, Music a Hit: Early Positives

Despite the mixed reviews, Nupur Sanon's performance is being widely praised. Many critics are calling her a natural talent and predicting a bright future for the young actress. The film's music, composed by Pritam, is also gaining popularity. The song "Dil Dhadakne Do 2.0", a reimagining of the classic title track, is already topping the charts. Speaking to News Reporter Live at the premiere, Nupur Sanon said, "I'm overwhelmed by the response. I poured my heart and soul into this film, and I hope audiences connect with Aisha's journey."

OTT Release and What's Next for the Cast

For those who prefer to watch from the comfort of their homes, 'Ishq Express' is expected to have its OTT release on Netflix India approximately 6-8 weeks after its theatrical release. Meanwhile, Rohan Mehra is already gearing up for his next project, an action thriller, while Nupur Sanon is reportedly in talks for a web series on Amazon Prime.

If you're looking for a light-hearted romantic comedy, 'Ishq Express' might be worth a watch. But if you prefer more substance and depth, you might want to explore other options. For more Movies & Reviews, stay tuned to News Reporter Live!