3 Ekka (Gujarati: ૩ એક્કા) is a 2023 Indian Gujarati-language drama film directed by Rajesh Sharma and written by Chetan Daiya and Parth Trivedi. It stars Malhar Thakar, Yash Soni, Mitra Gadhavi, Kinjal Rajpriya, Esha Kansara, and Tarjanee Bhadla in the lead roles. The film was released on 25 August 2023 and went on to become the second-highest grossing Gujarati film of all time, behind Chaal Jeevi Laiye!.
Contents
Cast
Malhar Thakar as Kalrav
Yash Soni as Kabir
Mitra Gadhavi as Bhargav
Kinjal Rajpriya as Mansi
Esha Kansara as Jhanvi
Tarjanee Bhadla as Kavita
Hitu Kanodia
Chetan Daiya
Prem Gadhavi
Tusharika Rajguru
Om Bhatt
Production
On 20 November 2022, the film was announced, featuring the trio of Malhar Thakar, Yash Soni, and Mitra Gadhavi. They had previously worked together in the blockbuster Gujarati film Chhello Divas. The film is produced under the banner of Anand Pandit Motion Pictures, and Jannock Films. The music of the film was composed by Kedar and Bhargav.
Filming
The shooting of the film commenced on 13 February 2023 and wrapped up in nearly 50 Days. The entire film was shot in Ahmedabad.
Marketing and release
The teaser of the film released on 15 July 2023. The trailer of the film was released on 21 July by Amitabh Bachhan. The film was initially set to be released on 18 August 2023, but it was rescheduled and then released on 25 August 2023.
Reception
The film was well received by the audience. It was declared a blockbuster at the box office and grossed over ₹12.56 crore (US$1.3 million) in its first week. It collected ₹26.11 crore (US$2.7 million) in its 20-day run, becoming the second-highest grossing Gujarati film of all time behind Chaal Jeevi Laiye!.
Akanksha Vasavada of The Times of India rated it 4 out of 5. She praised story, direction and performances while noting that the second half needed "tighter" editing. Rachana Joshi writing for Mid-Day Gujarati rated it 3 out of 5. She praised performances, direction and story but criticised the screenplay and editing.