Chennai, June 30

Actor Akkineni Naga Chaitanya-starrer costly Telugu actioner "Autonagar Surya" could earn just Rs.5.8 crore in the opening weekend in Andhra Pradesh. Experts blame delay in its release for its poor performance at the box office.

"The film collected Rs.5.8 crore in the opening weekend. It was supposed to do well, but the delay in its release affected its box-office prospect. Even 'Manam' success couldn't help Chaitanya in impressing audiences," trade analyst Trinath told IANS.

Naga Chaitanya's family drama "Manam", which turned out to be a stupendous hit, is still running in cinemas.

Directed by Deva Katta, "Autonagar Surya", also featuring Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Sai Kumar in important roles, came out Friday.

The makers of "Autonagar Surya" were hopeful that "Manam" success would help their film in luring audiences. However, it didn't work in their favour.

This is not the first time that delay in a film's release has cast a shadow on its box office business.

"This is not the first time delay in a film's release has affected its box-office run. In the past 'Anji', 'Paisa' and 'Damarukama' were delayed and faced the similar fate when they were released," he added.