Heaving a sigh of relief – That must exactly be the state of Abhishek Bachchan, what with his DOSTANA opening to a good response all over. The percentage occupancy at theaters may not be exceptional (it is in 70%–80% range) considering the film has opened to 12–14–16 shows at all leading multiplexes across the country, but the fact remains that collections at the end of Day 1 have been bountiful.

This brings one to an all important question – Has Abhishek Bachchan finally got a bona fide box office success to his name in 2008?

Well, the answer to this question is a definite Yes. While his SARKAR RAJ too had taken a good opening at the box office, it settled to be an average earner from box office point of view (though home video and satellite made the film a further plus in the long run). However, DOSTANA has been liked even more by the audience, especially the bunch of youngsters in the urban centers (the target audience for the film) hence ensuring that Karan Johar, Yash Raj Films (the distributors), Tarun Mansukhani (the director), composers Vishal and Shekhar and the cast of the film including Abhishek Bachchan, John Abraham and Priyanka Chopra have all the right reasons to kick start celebrations.

What has also been the unanimous reactions amongst the audience and media folks is Abhishek being the scene stealer of the show. Of course John’s presence elevates the film to a different altogether, what with his stunning physique resulting in all the ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ and sometimes even outrageous roars from the female crowds in the auditorium but Abhishek’s mischievous act makes DOSTANA a fun show all the way.

Watch out for his ‘Once Upon A Time’ in Venice act or ‘Beedi Jalaile’ jig with Boman Irani or his shock at Kirron Kher finally accepting John as her ‘bahu’ or the comical outburst of ‘You keep Bobby, I don’t need him’ sequence with Priyanka – these are some of the gems that make Abhishek’s performance come out as one of his best ever acts ever.

With a success under his belt, Abhishek can finally breathe easy post the debacle of DRONA. Also, it makes his DILLI 6 interesting all over again, hence promising a fresh start in year 2009!