Avatar, Dec. 23 -- Fire and Ash, the third instalment in James Cameron's blockbuster franchise, is showing signs of slowing momentum at the Indian box office despite a strong opening weekend. As the film inches towards the Rs.80-crore mark domestically, its performance is being closely watched amid stiff competition from the Hindi action drama Dhurandhar.

Avatar: Fire and Ash has accrued around Rs.83.03 crore at the Indian box office over its first five days, with Day 3 (Sunday) earning Rs.25.75 crore, Day 4 (Monday) Rs.9 crore, and Day 5 (Tuesday) an early estimate of Rs.6.78 crore. The figures, drawn from early trade reports, indicate moderate weekend strength followed by a significant weekday slowdown.

English-language 3D screenings ...