BY CHRISTA LINCY

OTT Releases This Week (April 23 to May 7, 2026) OTT releases this week, (April 27 to May 3, 2026) are set to dominate digital screens with a high-velocity mix of blockbuster sequels, controversial docuseries, and pan-India digital premieres. Leading the charge is the socio-political drama The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond on Netflix, alongside the highly anticipated return of the Atwal family in Undekhi Season 4 on SonyLIV. From the supernatural fantasy world of Raakaasa and the motocross racing action in Biker to the star-studded Hollywood adaptation of Wuthering Heights featuring Margot Robbie, the streaming slate offers an expansive variety of genres. Whether it is the gritty streets of Mumbai in Sapne Vs Everyone Season 2 or the parallel-timeline madness of the Malayalam hit Aadu 3, this week ensures that every major streaming platform is packed with fresh, high-stakes entertainment. Here's a complete breakdown of all the movies and shows releasing on OTT between April 20 and April 26, 2026. May 01, 2026 Snapshot Cast & Crew Videos The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond SocioPolitical Drama ZEE5 Language:Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam Running Time:2h 11m IMDB Rating:5.3/10 View Box Office Collection → Three young Indian women across different states choose love over tradition, only to become trapped. Their parallel lives show how romance and rebellion transform into control and silence, turning love into a weapon that destroys freedom. The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond Cast and Crew Ulka GuptaActor Aditi BhatiaActor Aishwarya OjhaActor Kamakhya Narayan SinghDirector The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond Trailer May 1, 2026 Snapshot Cast & Crew Videos Aadu 3 Action, Comedy Zee5 Language:Malayalam,Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi Running Time:2h 48m IMDB Rating:6.8/10 View Box Office Collection → Shaji Pappan and gang appear in different roles in three parallel timelines, past, present, and future. As powerful enemies emerge in all eras, the gang is drawn into high-stakes confrontations. Aadu 3 Cast & Crew Jaya SuryaActor Saiju KurupActor VinayakanActor Sunny Wayne.jpgActor Midhun Manuel ThomasDirector Aadu 3 Trailer May 1, 2026 Snapshot Cast & Crew Videos Raakaasa supernatural Fantasy Thriller Netflix Language:Telugu Running Time: 2h 10m IMDB Rating:8.8/10 View Box Office Collection → Returning home after a decade, an NRI chasing romance inadvertently awakens an ancient darkness long feared by his village. As the threat intensifies, love turns deadly and life hangs in the balance. Raakaasa Cast & Crew Sangeeth ShobhanActor Nayan SarikaActor Vennela KishoreActor Ashish VidyarthiActor Manasa SharmaDirector Raakaasa Trailer May 1, 2026 Snapshot Cast & Crew Videos Biker Romantic , Comedy Netflix Language:Telugu Running Time:2h 40m IMDB Rating:7.1/10 View Box Office Collection → Directed by Abhilash Reddy Kankara, the 2026 Telugu sports drama Biker follows former motocross prodigy Vikas Narayan, who returns to professional racing after a mysterious incident and a fallout with his father, Sunil. The film chronicles Vikas's emotional journey of redemption, reconciliation, and competition on the global stage. Biker Cast & Crew SharwanandActor Malavika NairActor Dr.RajasekharActor Atul KulkarniActor Abhilash Reddy KankaraActor Biker Trailer (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   May 1, 2026 Snapshot Cast & Crew Videos Wuthering Heights Drama,Romantic HBOMax Language:English Running Time:2 hr 16m IMDB Rating:6.1/10 View Box Office Collection → A passionate and tumultuous love story set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors, exploring the intense and destructive relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw. Wuthering Heights Cast and Crew Margot RobbieActor Jacob ElordiActor Hong ChauActor Shazad LatifActor Emerald FennellDirector Wuthering Heights Trailer (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   may 1, 2026 Snapshot Cast & Crew Videos Leader Action, Thriller AmazonPrime Language:Tamil Running Time:2hr 16m IMDB Rating:8.2/10 View Box Office Collection → An ordinary man becomes trapped between warring criminal factions and law enforcement, forcing him to use his wits to survive while shielding his loved ones from the deadly crossfire that threatens to consume them all. leader Cast and Crew Legend SaravananActor Payal RajputActor ShaamActor Andrea JeremiahActor R.S. Durai Senthilkumar Director leader Trailer May 1, 2026 Snapshot Cast & Crew Videos GLory Thriller,Sports Netflix Series:Glory Language:Hindi No Of Episodes:1 Glory (2026) is a Hindi sports-crime thriller set in the boxing world of Haryana, focusing on the mysterious death of an Olympic prodigy. The film follows estranged brothers played by Divyenndu and Pulkit Samrat as they return home to confront their domineering coach father, played by Suvinder Vicky, while uncovering a dark web of family secrets and systemic corruption. Glory Cast and Crew DivyennduActor Pulkit SamratActor Suvinder VickyActor Jannat ZubairActor Karan AnshumanDirector GLory Trailer (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   May 1, 2026 Snapshot Cast & Crew Videos Undekhi Season 4 Crime, Thriller Sonyliv Series:Undekhi Season 4 Language:Hindi No Of Episodes:NA Undekhi: The Final Battle, season 4 centers on a volatile internal power struggle within the Atwal family, as a vengeance-driven Rinku confronts Papaji following the loss of his family.The final season features a relentless pursuit by DSP Barun Ghosh and introduces new, enigmatic characters to the high-stakes crime saga. Undekhi Season 4 Cast and Crew Harsh ChhayaActor Surya SharmaDirector Dibyendu BhattacharyaDirector Anchal SinghDirector Ashish R. ShuklaDirector Undekhi Season 4 Trailer May 1, 2026 Snapshot Cast & Crew Videos Sapne Vs Everyone Season 2 Thriller Drama AmazonPrime Series:Sapne Vs Everyone Season 2 Language:Hindi No Of Episodes:5 Season 2 follows Prashant’s struggle in the brutal Mumbai film industry to fund his mother's care, while Jimmy gets entangled in dangerous real estate and politics to seek revenge. Their paths diverge, escalating into a gritty battle of ambition versus morality that tests if their dreams are worth the cost. Sapne Vs Everyone Season 2 Cast and Crew Ambrish VermaActor Paramvir Singh CheemaActor Vijayant KohliActor Naveen KasturiaActor Ambrish VermaDirector Sapne Vs Everyone Season 2 Trailer (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   April 27, 2026 Snapshot Cast & Crew Videos Lawrence of Punjab Comedy Drama ZEE5 Series:Lawrence of Punjab Language:Hindi No Of Episodes:NA Lawrence of Punjab is a docuseries tracing the transformation of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi from a student to a criminal figure, including his alleged involvement in the murder of Sidhu Moose Wala. The show faces a government-ordered stay on its release amid concerns that it glorifies criminal activity. Lawrence of Punjab Cast and Crew Raghav DarrDirector Lawrence of Punjab Trailer Video Not Available Upcoming OTT releases this week April 27 to May 3 MOVIE / SERIES NAME LANGUAGE RELEASE DATE PLATFORM Straight to Hell English April 27 Netflix The House of Spirits English April 29 Amazon Prime Video Should I Marry A Murderer? English April 29 Netflix Widow's Bay English April 29 Apple TV+ Man on Fire English April 30 Netflix (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Frequently Asked Questions: OTT Releases (April 27 – May 3, 2026) What are the biggest movies and shows releasing on OTT this week? The week of April 27 to May 3 is packed with highly anticipated sequels and digital premieres. Key highlights include the socio-political drama The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond on Netflix, the massive Malayalam sequel Aadu 3 on Zee5, and the final season of the crime saga Undekhi Season 4 on SonyLIV. Hollywood fans can also look forward to Wuthering Heights starring Margot Robbie on HBO Max. When and where can I watch The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond? The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on May 1, 2026. Following its theatrical run, the film will be available for streaming in multiple languages, including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam. Which major Indian web series are returning with new seasons this week? Two cult-favorite series are arriving on May 1. Undekhi Season 4: The Final Battle premieres on SonyLIV, focusing on the power struggle within the Atwal family. Simultaneously, Sapne Vs Everyone Season 2 arrives on Amazon Prime Video, continuing the gritty battle of ambition and morality in the Mumbai film industry. What new Telugu movies are making their OTT debut this week? Telugu cinema enthusiasts have two major releases on Netflix starting May 1. Biker, a sports drama starring Sharwanand and Malavika Nair, follows a motocross prodigy’s redemption. Also arriving is Raakaasa, a supernatural fantasy thriller starring Sangeeth Shobhan and Nayan Sarika, which currently boasts a high IMDB rating of 8.8/10. Is there any controversy surrounding the release of Lawrence of Punjab? Yes, the docuseries Lawrence of Punjab, which traces the life of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, was slated for release on ZEE5 on April 27, 2026. However, it is currently facing a government-ordered stay on its release amid concerns regarding the potential glorification of criminal activities. Which Tamil and Malayalam movies should I watch out for? For Tamil audiences, the action-thriller Leader starring Legend Saravanan and Andrea Jeremiah arrives on Amazon Prime Video on May 1. Malayalam fans can stream the highly anticipated action-comedy Aadu 3 on Zee5, featuring Shaji Pappan and his gang in a unique parallel-timeline narrative. Are there any notable international or Hollywood premieres? A major highlight for world cinema fans is the period drama Wuthering Heights, directed by Emerald Fennell. Starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, this intense adaptation of the classic novel arrives on HBO Max on May 1, 2026. What is the plot of the new Hindi film Glory? Glory is a sports-crime thriller releasing on Netflix as part of the Unchosen series. 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BY CHRISTA LINCY

The anticipation surrounding Pati Patni Aur Woh Do has become strong following the response to its teaser released on April 20. Capitalizing on this momentum and the specific setting of the comic caper, the makers have planned an unconventional marketing move. T-Series, in collaboration with B R Studios, is set to host a first-of-its-kind trailer launch event at Mumbai's Sanjay Gandhi National Park on Saturday, May 2. According to an exclusive report by Bollywood Hungama, this marks the first time the National Park has been utilized for a major film event, blending cinema with nature for an immersive experience. The event is designed to be visually striking and immersive, featuring the principal star cast and the director. To make the launch memorable for the media and attendees, the organizers have curated specific activities, including a ride on the famous Van Rani Toy Train and boating sessions alongside the film’s talent. This jungle-themed concept aims to mirror the vibrant and chaotic energy of the film, providing a unique backdrop for the unveiling of the trailer. With preparations currently in full swing, the industry is looking at this as a significant step in the evolution of film promotional events in Mumbai. Directed by Mudassar Aziz, the film is a spiritual successor to the 2019 hit that grossed over 100 crore in India. Aziz, who is considered the architect of the modern franchise, is expected to bring his signature blend of situational comedy and sharp relationship drama back to the big screen. The sequel expands the conflict by featuring three female leads instead of two, creating what fans are calling a more chaotic Pativerse. For Ayushmann Khurrana, this project is a crucial addition to his comedy-drama portfolio as he looks to maintain his streak of theatrical successes. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The film boasts a fresh and buzzy ensemble cast including Sara Ali Khan, Rakul Preet Singh, and Wamiqa Gabbi. The pairing of Ayushmann and Sara is a major talking point, as they have also collaborated on the spy-comedy Udta Teer, scheduled for later this year. Additionally, the film marks a reunion for Ayushmann with Rakul Preet after their 2022 project Doctor G, and brings back his popular dynamic with Wamiqa Gabbi. This combination of fresh chemistry and proven on-screen partnerships is expected to be a major draw for the family audience when the film arrives in theaters. From a box office perspective, Pati Patni Aur Woh Do comes at a time when Ayushmann Khurrana has reclaimed his commercial mojo. After the success of Dream Girl 2, which netted over 100 crore, the actor delivered another winner in late 2025 with the supernatural horror-comedy Thamma. By officially joining the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, Ayushmann has built significant momentum heading into 2026. Pati Patni Aur Woh Do is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 15, 2026. Produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishnan Kumar, and Renu Ravi Chopra, the film is being positioned as a premier summer entertainer. With a unique trailer launch on the horizon and a cast that balances established stardom with rising talent, the production is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the film grabs maximum eyeballs. Following the trailer reveal on May 2, the team is expected to embark on a multi-city promotional tour ahead of the mid-May release.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Vicky Kaushal is currently navigating one of the most significant phases of his career, lining up back-to-back large-scale spectacles. Following the immense anticipation surrounding Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love and War, the actor is now gearing up for another ambitious project in the form of Maddock Films' upcoming mythological epic, Mahavatar. Directed by Amar Kaushik, the film is set to see Vicky in a role that demands an unprecedented level of commitment and physical transformation. According to an exclusive report by Pinkvilla, the actor has blocked a total of 18 months exclusively for this project, signaling the massive scale and depth of the upcoming production. The timeline for Mahavatar begins immediately after Vicky concludes his work on Bhansali's Love and War. The Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial, which also stars Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, is preparing for a crucial 50-day schedule starting in May 2026. Bhansali aims to wrap the film by the end of June 2026, targeting a high-profile theatrical release on January 21, 2027. Once the cameras stop rolling for Love and War, Vicky is slated to dive straight into an intensive six-month preparatory module for Mahavatar starting in June 2026. This preparatory phase is designed to be a comprehensive training program. It includes a rigorous physical transformation aimed at bulking up the actor's physique to match the mythological scale of the character, alongside a series of acting workshops. Amar Kaushik has reportedly designed a detailed module that focuses not only on the physical aspects but also on the psychological and emotional journey of the character. This deep-dive preparation is essential as Vicky is set to portray Chiranjeevi Parashurama, a figure known for immense strength and spiritual depth in Indian history. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The actual filming of Mahavatar is slated to commence in January 2027. The production is looking at an extensive one-year shooting schedule that is expected to wrap up by December 2027. During this entire period, Vicky Kaushal has consciously decided not to take up any other professional assignments. By dedicating his full attention to Mahavatar, the actor aims to maintain consistency in his performance and look, treating the film as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. While there is a slight possibility of a small project being squeezed in before January 2027, it remains contingent on his prep timeline and physical state. The buzz around Mahavatar has been exceptionally high since the release of its first-look poster, which showcased a fierce and unrecognizable Vicky Kaushal as Parashurama. Coming from the stable of Maddock Films, which has recently found immense success with its supernatural and horror-comedy universe through films like Stree and Munjya, this foray into the mythological space represents a bold new direction for the studio and director Amar Kaushik. With Vicky’s total immersion into the role and the backing of a proven director-producer duo, Mahavatar is being positioned as one of the most significant cinematic events of 2027.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, April 29 - Fans of the cult classic Indian folk horror film can finally mark their calendars. Following years of speculation and a record-breaking theatrical re-release of the original film, makers have officially announced that Tumbbad 2, starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui and others, will hit cinemas on December 3, 2027. While the first film was a masterclass in claustrophobic tension and greed, Tumbbad 2 promises a massive leap in scale. The sequel's central theme is said to be "Pralay" - the Hindu concept of cosmic dissolution or the apocalypse. This suggests that while the first film dealt with the personal greed of one family, the sequel may explore the catastrophic consequences of that greed on a much larger, perhaps even global, scale. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Directed by Adesh Prasad, Tumbbad 2 is positioning itself as one of the most expensive horror-fantasy films ever made in India, with a reported 150 crore budget. A significant portion of this budget is being allocated to cutting-edge visual effects and the elaborate practical sets required to bring the "Pralay" vision to life. Production of the film has already commenced, giving it enough time for filming and post-production to ensure the sequel matches the meticulous craftsmanship of its predecessor. The original Tumbbad took six years to make and was a slow-burn success that eventually gained legendary status on streaming platforms. With the sequel, the producers are aiming for a global blockbuster right out of the gate. As the December 2027 release date approaches, Tumbbad 2 is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated Indian films of the decade.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, April 29 - The Box Office battleground for May 1, 2026, is set. As the industry celebrates Maharashtra Day, two distinct films - the Marathi historical epic Raja Shivaji and the soulful romance Ek Din - are hitting the big screen amid mid expectations. But the big question is, can these new entrants topple the strong holdovers, in the form of Bhooth Bangla and Dhurandhar 2, currently dominating the charts? Raja Shivaji: The Regional Powerhouse (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Directed by and starring Riteish Deshmukh, Raja Shivaji is the most anticipated Marathi film in years. While the Marathi version is expected to see a historic opening, the Hindi dubbed version faces a different set of expectations. The advance booking for the film is good overall, but the Hindi version is seeing an underwhelming response. The advance booking trend suggests Hindi opening of Raja Shivaji around 1.50-2 crores net, but the movie has the advantage of the genre and a story deeply personal to the people, especially in Maharashtra. Releasing on Maharashtra Day is another plus, which is expected to boost the walk-in footfalls. However, despite having certain advantages, the original Marathi version is expected to dominate the footfalls, leaving not much room for the Hindi version. While the trade is expecting the Hindi opening in the range of 3-4 crore net, the trend suggests it might be somewhere between 2-3 crores net, depending on spot bookings. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Ek Din: Low Buzz, Word-of-Mouth Dependent Backed by Aamir Khan's production house, Ek Din stars his son Junaid Khan alongside Sai Pallavi. Despite the reputation attached to it, the film has struggled to generate some sort of pre-release excitement. The makers tried to boost the buzz by opening the advance sales a month before the release date, but things haven't turned out as expected with low pre-sales. As a result, Ek Din is expected to open in the 1 to 2 crore net range on Day 1. The romantic drama's niche appeal and limited awareness mean that its box office journey will heavily depend on audience word of mouth rather than an initial surge. Bhooth Bangla To Remain Top Choice? (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Superstar Akshay Kumar-fronted horror comedy Bhooth Bangla has been performing very well since its release on April 17, and is expected to remain the top choice in Hindi this Friday, unless the new releases really surprise on the release day. There is Dhurandhar 2 also, which, even though it is slowing down, is expected to retain some screens and collect on low levels.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Dhanush's 54th project, Kara, is approaching its theatrical debut with a steady build-up in its advance bookings for the opening day. As of now, the film's worldwide real-time pre-sales have reached the 3 crore mark, with the home territory of Tamil Nadu contributing a major share of 2 crore. While these numbers suggest a reliable start for the heist action-thriller, the film is currently in its final day of pre-sales, where a significant jump in momentum will be required to ensure a high-impact opening total at the box office. The ticket sales on BookMyShow have shown a positive trajectory over the last 48 hours. After recording 5,410 tickets on April 27, the volume saw a healthy increase on April 28 to reach 15,990 tickets, bringing the cumulative total on the platform to 21,400. The hourly momentum has also witnessed a spike, with 2,300 tickets sold in the 1-2 pm window today, contributing to a total of 7,710 tickets since 9 am. This recent surge indicates that audience interest is intensifying as the release window narrows. In the national cinema chains involving PVR, INOX, and Cinepolis, the film has recorded approximately 21,900 ticket sales for its opening day across 809 shows. PVR leads the contribution with 15,700 tickets, followed by INOX with 4,900 tickets and Cinepolis with 1,300 tickets. The gross collection from these chains currently stands at 34 lakh with an average occupancy rate of 13 percent. These figures reflect a balanced distribution across major multiplexes, though the primary volume remains centered around PVR venues in key urban centers. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Directed by Vignesh Raja, Kara is a heist action-thriller with a confirmed runtime of 161 minutes or 2 hours and 41 minutes. The film has been granted a UA 16+ certificate by the censors due to its intense action themes and survival sequences. Set against the unique backdrop of the 1991 Gulf War, the narrative specifically explores the fuel crisis in Tamil Nadu triggered by the Iraq-American conflict. The story follows the protagonist's 16-day journey of survival and redemption, a concept that the director revealed was sparked by a mix of real-world events, including a crime report from Northern India and an emotional piece set near Vellore. As the film prepares to hit the screens on April 30, the final phase of bookings will be crucial. While the current pre-sales are trending at an average level, the historical performance of Dhanush's films often shows a strong reliance on late-day bookings and walk-in audiences. With its lengthy runtime and specific historical setting, the film is positioned as a detailed survival drama. The upcoming 24 hours will determine if Kara can convert this steady interest into a significant opening day benchmark in both domestic and overseas markets.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The global trajectory of Aditya Dhar's Dhurandhar franchise is reaching a fever pitch. After a remarkable and record-shattering run at the global box office, it has been officially confirmed that the first part, Dhurandhar—which currently occupies the 5th spot on the all-time global charts with a lifetime collection of 1,307.35 crore—will release in Japan on July 10, 2026. While the second installment, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, has already cemented its status as the 3rd highest-grossing Indian film of all time with a worldwide total of 1,780.76 crore, this strategic move for the original chapter is designed to build a solid foundation in the territory, allowing the film to maximize its lifetime potential as it heads toward a massive new milestone. This development has sent the box office community into a frenzy as the franchise now holds two distinct spots in the top five highest-grossing Indian films of all time. Currently, Dhurandhar: The Revenge is on the verge of overtaking Baahubali 2: The Conclusion to officially claim the number two spot globally, a milestone it is expected to reach within a matter of days. Meanwhile, the first part of the saga occupies the 5th position with its current lifetime total of 1,307.35 crore. The upcoming Japan release for the first chapter opens a strategic window for it to climb even higher in the rankings. While Aamir Khan’s Dangal remains the ultimate target at the top with 2,070.30 crore, the massive potential of the Japanese market suggests that Dhurandhar could witness a significant late-career surge in its global journey. Top 10 Highest Grossing Indian Films in JapanRANKMOVIE NAMEJAPAN COLLECTION (YEN)1RRR¥ 2.42 Billion2Muthu¥ 405 Million3Baahubali 2: The Conclusion¥ 305 Million43 Idiots¥ 170 Million5English Vinglish¥ 160 Million6The Lunchbox¥ 150 Million7Saaho¥ 131 Million8Magadheera¥ 130.1 Million9Enthiran (Robot)¥ 109.6 Million10Pushpa 2: The Rule¥ 105 Million* (2 Weeks) (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) It’s time for Japan to experience the Dhurandhar energy! ⚔️🔥Arriving in theatres across Japan on 10.7.2026.@RanveerOfficial #AkshayeKhanna @duttsanjay @ActorMadhavan @rampalarjun #SaraArjun @bolbedibol @AdityaDharFilms #JyotiDeshpande @LokeshDharB62 @jiostudios @B62Studios… pic.twitter.com/Hju88Qoi5m— Jio Studios (@jiostudios) April 29, 2026 The historical performance of Indian films in Japan reveals a diverse palate. While SS Rajamouli's films like Magadheera capitalized on the later Baahubali fever to prove that his brand is a bankable genre, Prabhas himself established a loyal following with Saaho, which held the record for the biggest opening day before RRR. Even sci-fi entries like Enthiran were specifically edited to be more fast-paced for the Japanese audience, focusing heavily on the action and Rajinikanth's iconic robotic mannerisms. This level of customization shows the effort producers put into capturing this unique market, and Dhurandhar is expected to receive similar localized attention. The Japanese market has a history of turning Indian blockbusters into legends. RRR remains the absolute benchmark, being the only Indian film to breach the ¥2 billion milestone. Its success proved that when the Japanese audience connects with the spectacle and emotion of an Indian film, the theatrical run can last for over 500 days. Even recent releases like Pushpa 2: The Rule have shown record-breaking speed, entering the all-time Top 10 in just 14 days. For the Dhurandhar franchise, the strategy is calculated: release Part 1 to introduce the characters and world-building, and then strike while the iron is hot to capitalize on the built-up hype. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The cultural appetite in Japan for larger-than-life Indian cinema has evolved significantly. From the Rajinikanth-mania sparked by Muthu in the 90s to the vocal screenings popularized by Baahubali 2, the audience there treats these films as a celebration. Content-driven successes like 3 Idiots and English Vinglish have also proven that emotional depth resonates just as much as high-octane action. Other notable films that have enjoyed cult status in Japan include: Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015) Padman (2018) Dhoom 3 (2013) Rangasthalam (2018) KGF: Chapter 1 & 2 Secret Superstar (2017) Hindi Medium (2017) PK (2014) Om Shanti Om (2007) Ra.One (2011) The potential collection from Japan for the first part of Dhurandhar is set to be a strategic addition to its already storied global run. While the gap to the next tier of all-time blockbusters is substantial, the additional gross from this release allows Part 1 to effectively consolidate its individual lifetime total and maximize its reach in an elite market. More than just a chase for individual rankings, this international expansion serves to strengthen the collective weight of the entire franchise. By adding another layer of revenue to the first installment, the saga pushes its combined total to heights rarely seen in Indian cinema, further distancing itself from other major series. This tactical push ensures that the Ranveer Singh-Aditya Dhar collaboration continues to grow its global footprint, solidifying a legacy that stands as a benchmark for franchise-building in the modern era.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge continues to exhibit remarkable staying power at the box office, even as it enters its sixth week of release. On its 41st day, the film recorded a net collection of 1.30 crore across 2,925 shows in India. This steady performance on a sixth Tuesday is a testament to the film's enduring appeal among the audience, particularly as it navigates a phase where most big-budget productions typically exhaust their theatrical run. The domestic net total has now reached a staggering 1,132.94 crore, while the India gross stands at 1,356.01 crore. Top 5 Highest 6th Tuesday Collections (Hindi Net)MOVIE NAME6TH TUESDAY COLLECTIONDhurandhar₹ 2.60 CrChhaava₹ 1.40 CrURI: The Surgical Strike₹ 1.38 CrDhurandhar 2: The Revenge₹ 1.25 CrStree 2₹ 1.25 Cr The film's performance in national cinema chains remains noteworthy for a sixth-week release. On Tuesday, it sold 20,000 tickets across PVR, INOX, and Cinepolis, generating a gross of 30 lakh. PVR led the contribution with 10,000 tickets sold at an occupancy of 11 percent, followed by INOX with 7000 tickets and Cinepolis with 3000 tickets. The overall occupancy for these chains stood at 8 percent across 1,400 shows, indicating that the film is still a preferred choice for cinema-goers despite several new releases entering the fray. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The digital engagement on BookMyShow also reflects this momentum. Dhurandhar 2 sold 30,270 tickets on the platform this Tuesday, marking an improvement over its Monday sales of 25,450. In the sixth Tuesday sales rankings, it maintained a solid third position, trailing only behind the original Dhurandhar and Laalo, while staying ahead of other heavyweights like Chhaava and Pushpa 2. This daily consistency has helped the film cross a massive milestone of 1.80 crore total tickets sold on BookMyShow since its release. The journey of ticket sales on the platform showcases a massive trend starting from the pre-sales period through to the sixth week. Here is the week-wise breakdown of tickets booked on BookMyShow: Pre Sales: 2.41 Million 1st Extended Week: 8.92 Million 2nd Week: 3.62 Million 3rd Week: 1.58 Million 4th Week: 931K 5th Week: 387K 6th Week (Till Tue): 213K Total: 1,80,52,310 Tickets On the global front, Dhurandhar 2 added 0.25 crore from overseas markets on Day 41. The total international gross now stands at 424.75 crore. When combined with the domestic gross, the worldwide total has reached 1,780.76 crore. The film is now steadily inching toward the 1,800 crore global milestone. Given the current daily trajectory and the lack of significant competition in its niche, the film is expected to maintain its foothold throughout the remainder of the week, further solidifying its status as one of the most successful Indian films of all time.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, April 29 - In a fresh turn of events at the box office, director David Dhawan's upcoming romantic comedy Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, starring Varun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur, and Pooja Hegde, has moved back to its earlier release strategy after Yash's Toxic underwent scheduling changes. Earlier this year, the makers of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai had postponed the film from June 5 to June 12, 2026, and then moved up to May 22, to avoid a direct box office clash with Toxic, which was shifted to June 4. The decision was taken to maintain a healthy release window and avoid unnecessary competition, as producers emphasised the importance of mutual support within the industry. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) However, with Toxic now confirmed to arrive at a later date, the release calendar has opened up again. This has encouraged the makers of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai to go back to their original strategy, as they have now rescheduled the movie to its original date, June 5, 2026. With multiple date shifts already impacting the 2026 release calendar, this move highlights how one big-ticket film like Toxic can trigger a domino effect across the industry. Now, with the clash no longer a concern, all eyes are on whether Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai can capitalise on a clearer release window and deliver a strong theatrical performance.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Riteish Deshmukh's much-anticipated historical epic Raja Shivaji is generating significant momentum ahead of its May 1 release. The film has recorded a healthy response in its advance booking phase, crossing the 1.1 crore mark in all-India gross collections without block seats. When including block seats, the total first-day advance booking stands at 1.55 crore. With over 42,700 tickets already sold across 1,105 shows, the film is poised for a strong start, particularly in its home territory of Maharashtra. Beyond the booking numbers, an interesting development regarding the film's runtime has surfaced. As exclusively reported by Bollywood Hungama, Raja Shivaji will be released with two different runtimes for its Marathi and Hindi versions. While it is standard practice for multi-language releases to maintain the same length, this film serves as an exception. The Marathi version has a runtime of 195.05 minutes, which translates to 3 hours 15 minutes and 5 seconds. In contrast, the Hindi version is shorter by exactly 8 minutes, clocking in at 187.05 minutes or 3 hours 7 minutes and 5 seconds.This strategic difference in pacing was also reflected in the film's promotional material; while the Marathi trailer runs for 3 minutes and 5 seconds, the Hindi trailer was kept slightly shorter at 2 minutes and 59 seconds. The Hindi version of the film was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with a U/A 16+ certificate on April 28. While no major cuts were requested, the CBFC's only suggestion was that the names of chapters, dates, events, and locations be specifically mentioned in Hindi for that version.This runtime experiment is reportedly a strategic move by Riteish Deshmukh. According to industry insiders, the director wanted to keep the narrative crisper for the national audience, while retaining a more detailed and local flavor for the Marathi audience who are naturally more connected to the historical context. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The language-wise breakdown of the advance booking reflects the film's strong regional pull, though the Hindi version is also carving out its space. Here is a look at the current 1st-day advance booking status: Marathi (2D): 1.05 Cr Gross | 40,070 Tickets Sold | 992 Shows Hindi (2D): 4.50 Lakh Gross | 2,667 Tickets Sold | 113 Shows All India Total (Gross): 1.10 Cr (1.55 Cr with block seats) Total Tickets Sold: 42,737 Marathi (2D): ATP 226 Hindi (2D): ATP 182 The trend was also visible in the promotional material, as the Marathi trailer was slightly longer than the Hindi one. The film features a massive ensemble cast including Genelia Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, and Fardeen Khan. Produced by Mumbai Film Company and Jio Studios, Raja Shivaji is one of the most ambitious Marathi productions to date. This star power, combined with the historical significance of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, has led to a surge in demand across key cities. Pune has emerged as the strongest performing center, leading the bookings with several theaters introducing 7:00 AM shows to accommodate the audience. Mumbai is also seeing steady growth in ticket sales. Among the national multiplex chains, the performance has been encouraging with PVR Inox leading the Marathi version sales at 10,000 tickets. Miraj Cinemas has followed with 4,500 tickets, while Cinepolis and MovieMax have sold 3,000 and 2,500 tickets respectively. With a total of 1,105 shows scheduled across India, Raja Shivaji is looking to set new benchmarks for Marathi cinema at the box office.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Bengaluru, April 29 - Superstar Yash-fronted much-anticipated action drama Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups has officially been postponed from its previously announced release date. The makers confirmed that the film will no longer arrive in theatres on June 4, opting instead for a later, globally aligned release window. The movie is directed by Geethu Mohandas and also stars Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, Rukmini Vasanth, and Tara Sutaria, among others in key roles. Film Complete, But Release Strategy Reworked In a heartfelt note shared by the team, it was revealed that Toxic is already complete. However, the decision to delay the release stems from a larger vision - ensuring the film reaches its full potential on a global scale. The statement highlights that after presenting the film at CinemaCon and witnessing an overwhelming international response, the team felt confident that the film deserved a wider and more impactful worldwide rollout. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Focus on Global Distribution & Partnerships The makers are currently working on aligning international distribution and strategic partnerships, which requires additional time. Instead of rushing the release, the team has chosen to recalibrate the timeline to ensure a synchronised global launch. This approach signals a growing trend in Indian cinema - films being positioned not just for domestic success but as global cinematic events. Yash, who is also involved as a producer, emphasised the importance of patience and responsibility during this phase. In the note, he expressed his commitment to delivering a film that stands as a proud moment for Indian cinema on the world stage. He acknowledged the unwavering support of fans and assured them that the delay is aimed at enhancing the overall impact of the film. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Not a Setback, But a Strategic Move This isn't the first time Toxic has been delayed. The movie was earlier scheduled for March 19 but was pushed to June due to external factors, like global uncertainties, that affected its schedule. However, the current postponement is purely strategic, with the goal of maximising reach, scale, and audience experience. While a new release date is yet to be announced, the makers have confirmed that Toxic will hit theatres soon across the world. Given the scale and ambition behind the project, expectations are now even higher for what could be one of the biggest Indian releases on the global stage. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Some stories ask for patience.Some journeys demand it. #Toxic #ToxicTheMovie pic.twitter.com/zKZ1Tmba79— TOXIC (@Toxic_themovie) April 29, 2026

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The digital journey of Pawan Kalyan's Ustaad Bhagat Singh has provided a contrasting narrative to its theatrical run. Despite being produced on a reported budget of 150 crore, the film was declared a flop at the box office after netting 72.34 crore in India. Its domestic gross stood at 84.91 crore, and with an overseas contribution of 11.85 crore, the worldwide total concluded at 96.76 crore. While these numbers fell short of theatrical recovery, the film's premiere on Netflix has unlocked a significant global audience, turning it into a notable digital success story for the year. In its debut window from April 16 to April 19, the Harish Shankar directorial made a strong entry, clocking 2.5 million views and 6.2 million viewing hours. This performance allowed it to secure the number 3 spot globally in the non-English films category during its first week. The mass entertainer trended in the Top 10 across 14 countries during this period, finding traction in major markets like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the UAE, and Malaysia. This initial surge indicated that the star power of Pawan Kalyan remained a significant draw for the streaming audience despite the earlier theatrical outcome. The film showed stability in its second week on the platform. Between April 20 and April 26, it added 1.9 million views and 4.7 million viewing hours to its tally. This brought the cumulative two-week performance to 4.4 million views and approximately 10.9 million total viewing hours. Although it moved to the number 4 spot worldwide in the second week, it continued to trend in the Top 10 across 10 countries. This global reach extended beyond Asia into Africa, where it maintained a presence in the Top 10 lists of Mauritius and Nigeria for two consecutive weeks. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) When looking at the competitive landscape of 2026 releases on Netflix, Ustaad Bhagat Singh currently holds the number 1 rank for the year. Below is the 2-week viewership comparison for the top 2026 releases: Ustaad Bhagat Singh: 4.4 Million Views (10.9M Hours) Youth (Tamil/Telugu): 3.8 Million Views (9.2M Hours) Akhanda 2: Thaandavam: 3.4 Million Views (8.8M Hours) Anaganaga Oka Raju: 3.1 Million Views (7.9M Hours) Mrithyunjay: 2.5 Million Views (6.4M Hours) In the broader context of Tollywood films on Netflix from 2024 onwards, Ustaad Bhagat Singh has secured the ninth spot on the list. Below are the top 5 Tollywood performers on the platform based on their viewership at the end of the second weekend: Lucky Baskhar: 11.7M Views Pushpa 2: 9.4M Views Kalki 2898 AD (Hindi): 7.1M Views Hit 3: 6.9M Views Saripodhaa Sanivaaram / OG: 5.3M Views From a financial standpoint, the producers, Mythri Movie Makers, found themselves in a protected position despite the box office result. A reported digital rights deal with Netflix, valued at a substantial 80 crore, acted as a critical safety net for the producers. This trend underscores the growing importance of OTT revenue streams for big-budget productions. While the film may have struggled at the physical box office, its performance on Netflix confirms that Ustaad Bhagat Singh found a wider calling in the digital space, reaching millions of households across multiple continents within its first fortnight of streaming.