BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, February 21 - There was no respite for the Hindi box office this Friday as Do Deewane Seher Mein and Assi have both registered a low start at the domestic box office, with opening day collections falling short of even low trade expectations. Despite featuring known actors, neither film managed to draw strong footfalls on its first Friday. Starring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal Thakur, Do Deewane Seher Mein opened slightly ahead in the clash, earning around 1.25 crore net on Day 1. However, the romantic drama struggled with low occupancy across major urban centres, indicating limited audience pull beyond select multiplex pockets. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) On the other hand, Taapsee Pannu's courtroom drama Assi fared marginally lower, collecting around 1 crore net on its opening day. While the film received attention for its subject-driven narrative, the serious tone and muted promotions appeared to restrict its reach among mass audiences on the first day. Overall, the poor opening day performance of both films points to a slow Friday at the Hindi box office. The initial word of mouth seems to be ok, particularly for Assi, with the limited awareness among the audience and the subject of the film is a big disadvantage. A big weekend growth will be crucial if Do Deewane Seher Mein and Assi hope to recover in the coming days, as their opening numbers have left little room for error going forward. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The promotional campaign for Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups has taken a significant turn with the makers unveiling a striking new poster featuring Rocking Star Yash in a completely clean-shaven look. This latest visual, shared by KVN Productions and Yash's Monster Mind Creations, introduces his character under the moniker Ticket, a move that has immediately triggered widespread speculation regarding a potential double role. The sharp contrast between this clean-shaven aesthetic and the rugged, bearded persona seen in previous glimpses has fueled widespread speculation that the actor may be portraying two distinct roles within the film's narrative. The new poster, carrying the ominous tagline Your Ticket to Hell, reinforces the gritty, high-stakes atmosphere established by the film's recent teaser. This clean-shaven transition marks a drastic departure from the actor's iconic KGF appearance, signaling a deliberate effort to reinvent his screen presence for this international project. Industry sources suggest that the character Ticket might represent a younger version of the protagonist or a separate individual altogether within the film's complex cartel-driven storyline, though the production team has yet to officially confirm these plot details. Your 'Ticket' to Hell ToxicTeaser Out now!Kannada:https://t.co/DDGZoaMERcHindi:https://t.co/zMjcW8sprxTelugu:https://t.co/xhU9zgEmVFTamil:https://t.co/pdNwCR9aShMalayalam:https://t.co/iaL9ejp60P#Toxic In Cinemas Worldwide from 19-03-2026#ToxicTheMovie… pic.twitter.com/ar3LqFHeIr— KVN Productions (@KvnProductions) February 21, 2026 Directed by award-winning filmmaker Geetu Mohandas, Toxic is being positioned as a global cinematic event. In a notable creative collaboration, the script is co-written by both Yash and Geetu Mohandas, reflecting the actor's deep involvement in the project's conceptualization. The film is being shot simultaneously in English and Kannada, with plans for a massive dubbed release in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam. This strategy highlights the producers' intent to capture a worldwide audience, leveraging the actor's post-KGF stardom on a larger scale. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The project features a powerhouse ensemble cast, including Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria, and Rukmini Vasanth, ensuring a multi-starrer appeal across different regional markets. On the technical front, the film reunites Yash with music director Ravi Basrur, whose background score in the recent teaser has already gained significant traction. The cinematography is handled by Rajeev Ravi, while the action choreography is overseen by a team of international and domestic experts including JJ Perry and Anbariv, promising a blend of realistic and stylized violence. Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups is officially locked for a worldwide theatrical release on Thursday, March 19, 2026. This timing is strategically chosen to coincide with the major festive weekend of Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, and Eid, providing a massive window for domestic box-office collection. Produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash, the film is currently one of the most anticipated Indian releases of the 2026 calendar year, with trade experts predicting it will set new benchmarks for the Kannada film industry on the global stage.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Here is the Punjabi movie Bambukat 2 box office collection, which is a comedy-drama film. This film is directed by Pankaj Batra and produced by Rhythm Boyz. ## Bambukat 2 stars Ammy Virk, Simi Chahal, Gurpreet Ghuggi, Binnu Dhillon, and Karamjeet Anmol in key roles. ## Bambukat 2 Box Office Collection Day Wise | All Language [See Footfalls] DayIndia Net Collection Change(+/-) Day 1 [1st Friday] ₹ 0.5 Cr - Day 2 [1st Saturday] ₹ 0.7 Cr 40.00% Day 3 [1st Sunday] ₹ 0.9 Cr 28.57% Day 4 [1st Monday] ₹ 0.55 Cr -38.89% Day 5 [1st Tuesday] ₹ 0.5 Cr -9.09% Day 6 [1st Wednesday] ₹ 0.35 Cr -30.00% Day 7 [1st Thursday] ₹ 0.35 Cr 0.00% Week 1 Collection ₹ 3.85 Cr - Day 8 [2nd Friday] ₹ 0.32 Cr -8.57% Day 9 [2nd Saturday] ₹ 0.29 Cr -9.38% Day 10 [2nd Sunday] ₹ 0.28 Cr -3.45% Day 11 [2nd Monday] ₹ 0.14 Cr -50.00% Day 12 [2nd Tuesday] ₹ 0.17 Cr 21.43% Day 13 [2nd Wednesday] ₹ 0.22 Cr 29.41% Total ₹ 5.27 Cr (estimated) - ## Take Subscription To See Footfalls ## India Net Collection ₹ 5.27 Cr ## Worldwide Collection ₹ 14.25 Cr ## Overseas Collection ₹ 8 Cr ## India Gross Collection ₹ 6.25 Cr ## Bambukat 2 Budget: ₹ - Cr * Approx ## Bambukat 2 Verdict: Coming Soon ## Bambukat 2 Screen count ## India: - ## Overseas: - ## Worldwide total: - ## Release Date: 20th February 2026 ## For more and the latest news about Pollywood Box Office Collection, Stay tuned to us.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Red Giant Movies has officially released the promotional video for the upcoming collaboration between superstars Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. Tentatively titled #KHxRK, the promo was launched on February 21, 2026, at 12:07 PM, across Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi markets. The specific release timing serves as a symbolic tribute to the birth dates of the two veterans—December 12 and November 7. Born Cool. Built Retro. Eternal Swag. 😎#KHxRK Tamil Promo ▶️ https://t.co/9rRSNvssoJ@ikamalhaasan @rajinikanth @Nelsondilpkumar @anirudhofficial @DirRajivMenon @Nirmalcuts @KiranDrk #PallaviSingh @amritharam2 @valentino_suren @alagiakoothan @MShenbagamoort3 @arjundurai… pic.twitter.com/qlUHR3FYrC— Red Giant Movies (@RedGiantMovies_) February 21, 2026 The project marks the historic on-screen reunion of the two legends after a hiatus of nearly 45 years.Their last major collaboration was in the 1979 cult classic Ninaithale Inikkum, though Kamal Haasan appeared in a brief cameo in Rajinikanth's Thillu Mullu in 1981. The new promo, tagged with the line Born Cool. Built Retro. Eternal Swag, showcases a vintage 1980s aesthetic, utilizing advanced visual technology to recreate the signature looks that defined the actors during their early career heights. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, who recently delivered the blockbuster Jailer, the film is being mounted as a massive pan-India spectacle. The collaboration marks a rare milestone for Nelson, who becomes the fifth director in this specific historic lineage to direct both Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan together in a single film. He joins an elite group of legendary filmmakers—K. Balachander, Bharathiraja, C. V. Sridhar, and C. Rudhraiya—who last managed this feat over four decades ago.The technical crew features frequent collaborators of the stars, with Anirudh Ravichander set to compose the background score and songs.In a significant technical addition, acclaimed filmmaker and cinematographer Rajiv Menon has joined the project as the Director of Photography, promising a visual language that blends classic cinematic textures with modern precision. The film is being bankrolled by Inban Udhayanidhi under the Red Giant Movies banner, marking the production house's 17th major venture (#RedGiant17). While the specific plot remains under wraps, early indicators from the makers suggest a narrative centered on themes of friendship and the underworld, carrying the high-stakes tagline: Some men set rules, some men just rule. The #KHxRK project is expected to go on floors in the second half of 2026.Principal photography is scheduled to commence once Rajinikanth wraps up work on his current commitment, Jailer 2, and Kamal Haasan completes his 237th project with action directors Anbariv.Given the massive digital engagement following the promo's release, trade analysts anticipate this collaboration to be one of the highest-grossing Indian films of the decade upon its eventual release.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Director Sanjay Gupta has confirmed that the screenplay for the sequel to the 2017 hit Kaabil is officially complete. In an exclusive conversation with Variety India, the filmmaker revealed that the project is now pending a green signal from Hrithik Roshan and producer Rakesh Roshan under their banner, FilmKraft Productions. Gupta, known for gritty action dramas like Shootout at Wadala, emphasized that the sequel aims to surpass the intensity of the original. He noted that the new script is significantly deadlier, adhering to the philosophy that a sequel must offer a superior experience to justify its existence. The director stated that as a writer and filmmaker, he is fully prepared to move into production the moment the Roshans determine the timing is right for the franchise's return. The original Kaabil remains a significant milestone in Hrithik Roshan's filmography. Despite a high-profile box office clash with the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Raees in January 2017, the film demonstrated strong legs at the ticket window, comfortably entering the ₹100 crore club. Hrithik's portrayal of Rohan Bhatnagar, a blind voice-over artist who turns into a calculated vigilante to avenge his wife, received widespread critical acclaim for its emotional depth and physical nuance. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   While the sequel's specific plot remains under wraps, it is expected to build on the vigilante-thriller foundation established by the first installment, which featured Yami Gautam, Ronit Roy, and Rohit Roy in pivotal roles. The first film was also noted for its soul-stirring music by Rajesh Roshan and a taut screenplay by Vijay Kumar Mishra, elements that fans expect to see replicated or elevated in the second chapter. Kaabil 2 will depend on Hrithik Roshan's current high-stakes slate.The actor is currently deep in the pre-production phase for the ambitious Krrish 4, which is expected to reach theaters in 2027. In a significant development for the franchise, Krrish 4 is slated to begin principal photography in mid-2026, with reports suggesting that Hrithik Roshan may take the director's chair himself. The superhero sequel is also reportedly moving toward a co-production model with Yash Raj Films (YRF), a move necessitated after extensive budget negotiations to ensure the project meets global visual standards. With Krrish 4 serving as the primary focus for mid-2026, Kaabil 2 is being viewed as a potent, high-intensity action project that could bolster FilmKraft's lineup during the 2026-2027 production cycle once the deadlier script receives the final go-ahead.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Hyderabad, February 21 - The wait finally seems to have ended as the shoot of superstar Prabhas-fronted Kalki 2 has reportedly begun in Hyderabad today. The film is the sequel to the blockbuster Kalki 2898 AD, released in 2024 and which went on to gross over 1000 crores worldwide. According to the latest reports, the shoot kicks off with Amitabh Bachchan. Prabhas has reportedly allotted 10 days for this schedule, and he will join the legendary actor in this. He will simultaneously shoot for Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Spirit. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Produced by Vyjayanthi Movies, Kalki 2898 AD sequel also has Kamal Haasan playing the role of the lead antagonist, and he has also joined the first schedule. The shoot of Kalki 2 starts in Shankarpally town in a massive set that is constructed on one of the biggest floors of Hyderabad. Some key sequences will reportedly be shot on the set in the first schedule. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Directed by Nag Ashwin, the sequel has undergone a major change on the casting front after Deepika Padukone was dropped from the sci-fi epic. While the official confirmation is yet to be made, it is said that Sai Pallavi has replaced the Bollywood actress to play the role of SUM-80 in Kalki 2, and a look test has been conducted on her recently. Stay tuned...

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Hyderabad, February 21 - Speculation surrounding Mahesh Babu portraying Lord Ram in Varanasi has gained massive traction after a striking image went viral on social media. The visual, which shows the superstar in a calm, divine avatar holding a bow, was widely circulated as Lord Ram from the film. Mythri Cinemas in Andhra Pradesh's Guntur displayed a Varanasi poster digitally, and it has gone viral. The digital hoarding features Mahesh Babu as Lord Ram, holding the bow and overlooking the sea as the poster reads, Mahesh Babu as Sri Ram, with Varanasi written on it. However, it is not yet clear if it the official look as neither the production house nor the film's team has released or endorsed the image. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) #MaheshBabu as Lord Ram #Varanasi pic.twitter.com/wIqirG370G— Unni Rajendran (@unnirajendran_) February 21, 2026 What is officially confirmed is that director S. S. Rajamouli has acknowledged the presence of a Ramayana-inspired narrative element in Varanasi, with Mahesh Babu appearing in a role linked to Lord Ram. Whether this avatar spans the entire film or appears in a key portion remains under wraps, but the confirmation alone has significantly heightened expectations. Produced by Sri Durga Arts and Showing Business, Varanasi is one of the most expensive Indian films ever made, with a reported budget of over 1300 crores. The movie, also starring Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is a globetrotting adventure film that spans different timelines and continents. It is scheduled to release on April 7, 2027, in multiple languages. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The behind-the-scenes intensity of Aditya Dhar's blockbuster Dhurandhar continues to surface as co-star R Madhavan revealed a poignant moment that left seasoned actors Akshaye Khanna and Arjun Rampal emotionally shattered. Speaking in a recent interview with Sonia Shenoy, Madhavan detailed the heavy atmosphere on set during the filming of the sequence recreating the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The scene in question required Akshaye Khanna, portraying the antagonist Rehman Dakait, and Arjun Rampal, playing Major Iqbal, to enact a scripted celebration of the tragic events.According to Madhavan, the professional facade dissolved the moment the director called cut. Both actors reportedly broke down and cried uncontrollably, overwhelmed by the sensitive nature of the subject matter and the collective memory of living through the real-life tragedy in 2008. It wasn't just acting for them. They have lived through those times and seen real incidents like that, Madhavan stated, noting that the incident underscored the extreme seriousness with which the production handled the recreation.The actor reflected that this specific breakdown convinced him that the film was destined to be a very special project, transcending typical action-thriller tropes to tap into deep-seated national sentiment. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Dhurandhar, which released on December 5, 2025, has already etched its name in history as a massive box-office phenomenon, crossing the ₹1,300 crore mark globally. The film, led by Ranveer Singh, earned praise for its realistic staging and gritty narrative involving an Indian intelligence operative embedded in Karachi's underworld. The focus now shifts to the high-stakes sequel, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, which is locked for a worldwide theatrical release on March 19, 2026.The sequel is expected to conclude the espionage saga across five languages: Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam. With the first installment still fresh in the public consciousness and holding a strong emotional connection, trade expectations for the sequel are sky-high as it prepares for a major box-office clash with Yash's Toxic during the Eid and Ugadi festive window.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The promotional campaign for Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups has secured a massive digital opening as its official teaser crossed the 100 million views mark across digital platforms within 24 hours of its release. The glimpse, which debuted on February 20, 2026, has maintained the top trending position on YouTube, reinforcing the massive global anticipation for Rocking Star Yash's return to the silver screen. According to the official data released by the makers, KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, the teaser amassed over 100 million cumulative digital views. This milestone reflects the total engagement recorded across all official promotional assets since the teaser’s launch. The content has consistently held the #1 trending position across multiple language feeds, including Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam It's over only when HE says it's over!💥Trending #1 on Youtube! 📈100 Million+ Digital Views! 🔥#ToxicTeaser is ruling the charts! #Toxic In Cinemas Worldwide from 19-03-2026#ToxicTheMovie#ToxicOnMarch19th @TheNameIsYash#Nayanthara @advani_kiara@humasqureshi… pic.twitter.com/vJlQln71xD— KVN Productions (@KvnProductions) February 20, 2026 Directed by Geetu Mohandas, Toxic is being positioned as a Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups.The teaser provides a high-octane look at the film's stylized violence and period setting, featuring a background score by KGF and Salaar fame composer Ravi Basrur. The technical crew is bolstered by acclaimed cinematographer Rajeev Ravi and editor Ujwal Kulkarni, with international stunt coordination by JJ Perry, Anbariv, and Kecha Khamphakdee. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The film boasts a high-profile ensemble cast, with the teaser confirming appearances by Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria, and Rukmini Vasanth.Reports suggest the narrative is a period gangster drama set against the backdrop of an international cartel in the 1940s. Produced jointly by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash under their respective banners, Toxic is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on March 19, 2026.The release date aligns with major festive holidays, including Ugadi, Eid, and Gudi Padwa. Following the record-breaking performance of the teaser, trade analysts expect the film to be one of the strongest contenders at the global box office for the 2026 calendar year.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Los Angeles, February 20 - Legendary filmmaker James Cameron has reacted strongly to the deal involving Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery, expressing deep concern over its potential impact on the future of theatrical cinema. Known for his unwavering support of the big-screen experience, Cameron believes such consolidation could disrupt the traditional studio and exhibition ecosystem. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) In a letter sent to Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cameron reportedly warned that a streaming-first company taking control of a legacy studio could undermine the theatrical business model that Hollywood has relied on for decades. He emphasised that cinema is not just about content consumption but an entire industry that sustains theatres, filmmakers, technicians, and countless jobs worldwide. "The business model of Netflix is directly at odds with the theatrical film production and exhibition business, which employs hundreds of thousands of Americans," Cameron writes (as per THR). "It is therefore directly at odds with the business model of the Warner Brothers movie division, one of the few remaining major movie studios." (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The filmmaker also took aim at Netflix's release strategy, which prioritises home viewing over exclusive theatrical runs. According to Cameron, large-scale films are designed for cinemas, and reducing their theatrical presence could result in fewer event films, declining footfalls, and long-term damage to movie theatres across the globe. Cameron's remarks have amplified an ongoing industry debate, with many creatives sharing similar anxieties about streaming-driven consolidation. As regulatory scrutiny continues around the deal, his reaction stands out as a powerful reminder that the future of cinema remains a contested space between theatrical tradition and streaming expansion. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The roadmap for Thalapathy Vijay's highly anticipated final cinematic outing, Jananayagan, is now taking shape as the makers shift their focus toward securing a strategic theatrical release window. According to a recent report by Valai Pechu, the makers have locked a strategic June 2026 release window, specifically aiming for June 25. This timing is designed to maximize a high-velocity theatrical window that leverages both the massive cultural hype of the actor's birthday and a lucrative extended holiday weekend, ensuring the film remains the primary choice for audiences across the globe. The proposed release strategy centers on a four-day holiday cushion, beginning with a Thursday opening. With Thalapathy Vijay's birthday falling on June 22, the state will already be in the grip of fan celebrations, which the production house aims to transition into theatrical momentum by June 25. Furthermore, the Muharram public holiday on June 26 (Friday) provides the perfect catalyst for special screenings and early morning shows. Also the government may grant permissions for additional shows during this period, allowing theaters to capitalize on maximum occupancy during the subsequent Saturday and Sunday. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The decision to slot the release in June is also seen as a calculated move following the 2026 Tamil Nadu State Assembly Elections, scheduled for April. By choosing a late June date, the producers are steering clear of the political volatility and model code of conduct restrictions that often impact theatrical business during election cycles. As a new administration takes responsibility in May, June is projected to be a period of stability, offering a clear runway for the film to dominate the box office without the distractions of political campaigning or rally schedules. Directed by H. Vinoth and produced by KVN Productions, Jananayagan is currently being mounted on a massive scale. With a musical score by Anirudh Ravichander, the project carries immense emotional and commercial weight as it marks Vijay's final film before his full-time transition into politics. The film, which reportedly features Pooja Hegde as the female lead and a gritty political-thriller narrative, is expected to be one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of all time. Given the strategic June window, insiders believe the film is well-positioned to shatter existing day-one records and establish a formidable benchmark for the 2026 box office.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The promotional engine for one of 2026's most anticipated sequels has officially shifted into high gear. According to an exclusive report by Pinkvilla, the makers of the Ranveer Singh-led action spectacle Dhurandhar 2 are slated to unveil the first official trailer in the first week of March, with internal sources pointing toward a March 5 launch date. This strategic timing serves as the primary buildup for the film's grand theatrical release during the Eid 2026 window, effectively positioning the sequel as a cornerstone event for the global box office this spring. Industry insiders who have been granted early previews of the trailer report a significant escalation in scale, world-building, and emotional intensity compared to the first installment. The sequel reportedly expands the narrative into unexplored territories, yet the focal point of the footage remains Ranveer Singh's radical transformation into the King of Lyari. Early internal reactions emphasize Singh's commanding screen presence and the physical gravitas he brings to this evolved version of his character, which trade experts suggest will be a major catalyst in driving mass ticket sales upon release. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The immense anticipation for the sequel is anchored by the record-breaking commercial performance of its predecessor, which redefined box office benchmarks. Dhurandhar concluded its theatrical run as a certified global juggernaut, amassing a lifetime India net collection of ₹838.5 crore. The film made history by crossing the prestigious ₹1000 crore milestone in domestic gross alone (₹1005.85 crore), bolstered by a robust overseas contribution of ₹299.5 crore. Even in its late stages, the film displayed exceptional longevity, collecting ₹0.72 crore in its tenth week and ₹0.18 crore in its eleventh, ultimately pushing its cumulative worldwide total to a staggering ₹1305.35 crore. This unprecedented success has established a formidable commercial threshold, fueling expectations for the sequel to perform as a top-tier global earner. The decision to launch the trailer in early March aligns with a massive marketing blitz designed to dominate the lucrative festive holiday period starting March 20. While the original Dhurandhar established the gritty foundations of this action universe, the sequel aims to surpass those benchmarks through high-octane sequences and a more complex narrative arc. This release sets the stage for a significant box-office showdown, as Dhurandhar 2 is currently scheduled to clash with Yash's period gangster epic Toxic, making the March 2026 frame one of the most competitive windows for Indian cinema in recent years.