India, June 25 -- Akshay Kumar is in his comedy era again. The actor recently tasted success with Priyadarshan's Bhooth Bangla, his first out-and-out comedy in years. Just months later, he is back with Welcome to the Jungle, the third instalment in the Welcome franchise. While Bhooth Bangla had the push of the Priyadarshan-Akshay combine, Welcome to the Jungle seems to be benefiting from the franchise recall and a huge star cast. Early trends indicate a strong opening for the comedy caper, bigger than even the horror comedy.

The advance bookings for Welcome to the Jungle started on a slow note just days before the film's release, but have picked up pace by Thursday afternoon. As of 2 PM on Thursday, less than a day before the first shows...