BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, March 22 – Bollywood star Shahid Kapoor-fronted O' Romeo has run out of gas at the box office and is all set to arrive on digital platform after completing its theatrical run. The film, which hit cinemas on February 13, 2026, received a decent response at the box office and has now reportedly locked its digital premiere window. According to the latest reports, Vishal Bhardwaj's directed film will first be available for rent starting March 27, 2026, before making its way to subscription-based streaming. The movie will premiere on Amazon Prime Video for rent, where viewers can pay a fee to watch the film early. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) This strategy has become increasingly popular among recent Bollywood releases, allowing filmmakers to extend revenue beyond theatrical collections. For those waiting to stream it as part of their subscription, the film is expected to become available for all Prime members in the second week of April 2026, after an 8-week theatrical run. Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, O' Romeo is a gritty action drama set against the backdrop of crime and romance, featuring Shahid Kapoor in an intense and stylised role. The film blends elements of love, betrayal, and violence, staying true to Bhardwaj's signature storytelling style. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The film grossed over 100 crores at the worldwide box office, but it ended up as a below-average affair due to the high cost involved. With digital release in sight, the makers hope it will reach a wider audience on Amazon Prime Video. Stay tuned...

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, March 22 - Director Aditya Dhar's spy action thriller Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge is rewriting box office history in North America with a sensational and record-threatening run. Headlined by Ranveer Singh, the film has struck a chord with audiences across the USA and Canada, delivering numbers that underscore its blockbuster status in just days of release. The film has already grossed around $11 million through Saturday in North America. The extended 4-weekend is estimated at $13.5 million, which is the record for an Indian film in the region, beating Kalki 2898 AD's $11.2 million. This explosive start has firmly placed the film among the biggest overseas openers ever for Indian cinema. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The ultimate benchmark, however, remains Baahubali 2: The Conclusion, starring Prabhas, which continues to hold the record as the highest-grossing Indian film in North America with an estimated $20.80+ million (updated) lifetime total. While that record has stood unchallenged for years, Dhurandhar 2 is now posing a serious threat to it, given the trend. Interestingly, the foundation for this success was laid by the first instalment, Dhurandhar, which had an exceptional run in North America. The film finished with over $20.50 million, coming very close to surpassing Baahubali 2 but ultimately falling just short of the milestone. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) With the second part, the franchise has taken a significant leap forward. Backed by massive hype, wider reach, and strong audience reception, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge is expected not only to challenge the existing record but also to aim for a much higher lifetime total. If the current momentum sustains in the coming weeks, the film could well emerge as the biggest Indian grosser in North America, setting a new benchmark for years to come. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge has unleashed an unprecedented storm at the global box office, solidifying its status as a certified juggernaut within just forty-eight hours of its release. The film is not merely performing; it is rewriting the record books by dominating key international markets and staging a massive comeback in the domestic circuit. After an explosive start, the film's second-day momentum has been described by trade analysts as mind-boggling, particularly in North America and the UK, where ticket sales are reaching levels rarely seen for Indian cinema. This global havoc is a testament to the massive screen count and the immense drawing power of the franchise, which has successfully captured the attention of both the Indian diaspora and local audiences abroad. According to the latest verified data from Comscore , Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge has amassed a staggering total of approximately ₹90.81 Crore ($10.9M+) in international territories over its first two days. In the United States alone, the film collected $4,944,541 (₹46.34 Cr), while Canada contributed another $2,000,268 (₹18.75 Cr), bringing the North American total past the $6.9 Million mark. The UK and Australia markets also showed exceptional strength, with collections of £927,577 (₹11.60 Cr) and A$1,485,736 (₹9.80 Cr) respectively. These figures place Dhurandhar 2 among the elite top three all-time overseas openers, nearly matching the early pace of RRR and comfortably outpacing recent blockbusters like Kalki 2898 AD and KGF Chapter 2. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The most significant narrative of the film's box office journey lies in its extraordinary leap in the domestic India Net rankings. On its opening day, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge stood at the fourth position in the all-time list, trailing behind the massive multi-language starts of Pushpa 2: The Rule, RRR, and KGF Chapter 2. However, the Day 2 performance witnessed a historic surge, with the film's cumulative India Net total reaching ₹226.27 Crore. By achieving this figure, Dhurandhar 2 has officially surpassed the two-day totals of Rajamouli's RRR (₹216.70 Cr) and Yash's KGF Chapter 2 (₹206.50 Cr), effectively jumping from the fourth spot to the second spot in the all-time India Net standings. Crucially, the regional dubbed versions of Dhurandhar 2 were delayed and only began their full-scale theatrical run starting today (Saturday). Had these versions been active from the opening show, the film likely would have bridged the gap to challenge the benchmark set by Pushpa 2.The revenge of Dhurandhar 2 on the charts, achieved primarily through its lead version, has sent shockwaves through the industry, signaling that a massive spike is imminent as the regional markets finally join the fray over the weekend. All-Time Top 5 Movies: 2-Day India Net Collection MOVIE NAME 2-DAY INDIA NET COLLECTION Pushpa 2: The Rule ₹ 268.70 Cr Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge ₹ 226.27 Cr RRR ₹ 216.70 Cr KGF: Chapter 2 ₹ 206.50 Cr Kalki 2898 AD ₹ 154.60 Cr (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Analyzing the global scenario, Dhurandhar 2's performance is driven by a unique synergy between mass-market appeal in India and a premium-large-format dominance overseas. The film's ability to maintain high occupancy even on its second day—typically a period where non-event films see a sharp decline—highlights the strength of the positive word-of-mouth. In North America, the film is benefiting from a record 4,405 shows, which is allowing it to challenge the single-day records of legendary hits. As the weekend progresses, trade experts suggest that the Saturday and Sunday numbers might push the film even closer to the current all-time leaders, especially as the regional language versions in South India begin to see a predicted spike in footfalls. All-Time Top 5 Movies: 2-Day Overseas Gross Collection MOVIE NAME 2-DAY OVERSEAS COLLECTION Pushpa 2: The Rule ₹ 98.00 Cr Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge ₹ 90.81 Cr RRR ₹ 90.00 Cr Kalki 2898 AD ₹ 85.00 Cr KGF: Chapter 2 ₹ 46.00 Cr The global reception for Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge confirms that it is more than just a domestic success; it is a cultural phenomenon that has successfully bridge the gap between various regional audiences. With its 2-day overseas total surpassing ₹90 Crore, it has narrowly edged out RRR to secure the second spot in that category as well. This dual dominance in both India Net and Overseas Gross makes it one of the most balanced box office performers in the history of Indian cinema. With the Sunday estimates looking even stronger, Dhurandhar 2 can maintain this velocity and eventually challenge the lifetime milestones of the very benchmarks it is currently eclipsing.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, March 21 - Indian cinema wasn't quite prepared for what is unfolding right now, though somewhere, it always hinted at this possibility. Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, an Aditya Dhar-directed spy actioner, has taken the box office by storm and is making sure that cinema lovers or trade watchers, better believe the reality. Over the last few years, the Indian cinema has delivered some of the greatest hits, yet a lingering question remained unanswered: when will it, particularly Bollywood, truly unleash its full box office potential? Well, it is a kind of question that will probably never get an answer, because the idea of 100% occupancy across the board remains more theoretical than practical. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) While we may never know the definite answer to this question, one thing is sure: Dhurandhar 2 is probably the closest to it in recent times. After scoring over 200 crore net in the first two days, the Ranveer Singh-starrer is venturing into the uncharted territory on day 3. As the numbers are still coming in, the Hindi version alone is expected to cross the 100 crore net mark today, making it the biggest single-day collection ever recorded in Hindi. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) And it's not just about day 3. The film had already set new benchmarks with its premiere and opening day numbers, both of which emerged as the biggest ever for a Bollywood release. However, achieving a 100 crore day in a single language seemed almost unthinkable until now. With big-ticket films like Ramayana expected to push boundaries in the future, no one anticipated such a record being shattered at this stage. What is next for Dhurandhar 2? Well, tomorrow, which is Sunday and day 4, can be a repeat of day 3, and that will be a monumental achievement. With today's collection, it has topped 500 crore worldwide in just 3 days, and will be close to the 700 crore mark by tomorrow, which will be the biggest weekend ever for a Hindi film. Stay tuned...

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Hyderabad, March 21 - Telugu cinema's biggest names have come out in full support of Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, heaping massive praise on director Aditya Dhar and his high-octane vision, as the film continues its record-breaking run at the box office. Dhurandhar 2, the Ranveer Singh-fronted spy action thriller, is the second part of the 1300+ crore grosser, which was released just a few months ago in December 2025. The sequel has taken the box office by storm, rewriting history for a Bollywood title and is on course to become one of the biggest hits of Indian cinema. SS Rajamouli has come out in full support of the movie and said that the film has surpassed the original film in both scale and soul. "The writing, casting, technical execution, music, world design and direction are flawless... But it's the emotional stakes that really ground it", he said. I loved Dhurandhar-1, but The Revenge surpassed the original in both scale and soul.The writing, casting, technical execution, music, world design and direction are flawless…. But it’s the emotional stakes that really ground it.The writing manages to weave plot twists that…— rajamouli ss (@ssrajamouli) March 21, 2026 Superstar Mahesh Babu was the first to praise the film, saying, "#DhurandharTheRevenge is an explosion executed with perfect precision!!!! The finest version of Ranveer unleashed and how... 💥💥💥 The way Aditya Dhar has conceived and delivered this standing ovation-worthy experience is remarkable. Special mention to Maddy's performance and Shashwat Sachdev's music. This is a film meant to be experienced and celebrated. Congratulations to the entire team". #DhurandharTheRevenge is an explosion executed with perfect precision!!!! The finest version of Ranveer unleashed and how… 💥💥💥 The way Aditya Dhar has conceived and delivered this standing ovation worthy experience is remarkable 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Special mention to Maddy’s performance…— Mahesh Babu (@urstrulyMahesh) March 19, 2026 Allu Arjun joined the trend, calling the film an Indian story with international swag. "A film that will make every patriot proud 🇮🇳
Many clap-trapping moments. So proud to have a brilliant and versatile actor like my brother @RanveerOfficial in our country. RVS on fire @AdityaDharFilms garu hit the ball out of the park. So happy to have brilliant filmmakers like him in our country. Show Rocker. An Indian story… International swag! Jai Hind." Just Watched #Dhurandhar2⁰Patriotism with swag 🇮🇳A film that will make every patriot proud 🇮🇳⁰Many clap-trapping moments 👏🏽 BLAST! 💥Congratulations to the entire team.⁰Fine performances by @ActorMadhavan garu & all actors . Technical brilliance . So proud to have a…— Allu Arjun (@alluarjun) March 18, 2026 Jr. NTR took to social media and sent a "big salute to the team of #DhurandharTheRevenge for delivering a storm to Indian audiences". He continued, "It takes conviction and fearless vision to mount a film like this and Aditya Dhar sir @AdityaDharFilms brings that strength to every frame. Using every tool at his disposal to elevate each scene to its absolute best deserves a standing ovation. This is a film that rouses your emotions and stays with you long after the end titles roll". A big salute to the team of #DhurandharTheRevenge for delivering a storm to Indian audiences. Ranveer sir @RanveerOfficial is not just breathtaking…. He delivered an absolute masterclass on screen.It takes conviction and fearless vision to mount a film like this and Aditya…— Jr NTR (@tarak9999) March 19, 2026 Superstar Ram Charan called Dhurandhar 2 raw, gripping, and impactful. @AdityaDharFilms brings scale and emotion together seamlessly. What he has done with this film is truly remarkable. @RanveerOfficial delivers a phenomenal performance - full of intensity and holds your attention throughout". #DhurandharTheRevenge is raw, gripping and impactful 🔥@AdityaDharFilms brings scale and emotion together seamlessly. What he has done with this film is truly remarkable.@RanveerOfficial delivers a phenomenal performance - full of intensity and holds your attention…— Ram Charan (@AlwaysRamCharan) March 20, 2026 Vijay Deverakonda has 4 fours to describe the film - "Bharat Maata ki JAI!" as he praised the entire cast and crew for the movie. "Tomorrow onwards - something big is going to happen in Indian cinema and culture. Immense love and respect to the entire cast and crew". Tomorrow onwards - something big is going to happen in Indian cinema and culture. 4 words. “Bharat Maata ki JAI!”Immense love and respect to the entire cast and crew. @AdityaDharFilms is a mad genius. @RanveerOfficial is all in explosive. @ActorMadhavan @rampalarjun Sara…— Vijay Deverakonda (@TheDeverakonda) March 18, 2026 Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge is currently creating absolute havoc at the North American box office (USA & Canada), dominating the overseas market with unprecedented momentum. According to the latest reports from Venky BoxOffice, the film is witnessing an extraordinary surge on its third day, which is expected to culminate in a historic Saturday gross. The demand for the film has reached a fever pitch, resulting in one of the widest releases for an Indian film in the region with 4,405 shows scheduled across the territory. The scale of this performance is evident from the staggering advance sales recorded for Saturday alone. The film has secured a massive $2,850,818 (approximately ₹23.70 Crore) through pre-sales, with over 206,620 tickets already sold before the day's walk-in crowds were fully accounted for. This massive advance booking figure has set the stage for a projected single-day gross of $4.0 Million to $4.5 Million. If these projections hold, Dhurandhar 2 will script history by recording the highest single-day gross in the history of Indian cinema in North America by a significant margin. The current trajectory suggests that the single-day Saturday earnings of Dhurandhar 2 could potentially eclipse the entire lifetime collections of several previous Indian blockbusters in the North American market. One such notable example is the 2021 hit Pushpa: The Rise, whose entire theatrical journey in the region is set to be surpassed by the Saturday gross of Dhurandhar 2 alone. This historic loading indicates that the film is achieving in just 24 hours what many major hits took weeks to accomplish. The pure Saturday momentum of Dhurandhar 2 is operating on an unprecedented scale, establishing a new gold standard for Indian films at the international box office. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) This overseas dominance comes on the heels of the film's record-breaking performance in India, where it has already crossed the ₹200 Crore net milestone within just two days of its release. The synergy between the domestic and international markets is pushing the cumulative worldwide gross to astronomical levels. In North America, the 4,405 show count is proving essential to meet the high demand, with many centers reporting housefull boards for evening and night screenings on Saturday. As the film heads toward a record-shattering opening weekend, all eyes are now on the final Saturday actuals and the subsequent Sunday projections. With the current pace, Dhurandhar 2 is not just breaking existing records but is establishing a new benchmark for Indian cinema's global commercial potential. The $4.5 Million Saturday target remains the primary focus as the film continues to dominate both the domestic and North American box office landscapes simultaneously.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, March 23 - If day 3 was a tsunami, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge brought mayhem on day 4 with another record-breaking collection. The spy action thriller hit the ball out of the park to deliver back-to-back 100 crore net in Hindi. It was like, the first time was nice, so I had to do it twice, kind of thing, as the movie is now in the league of its own. In comparison to the biggest grossers after 4 days, Dhurandhar 2 is the second, only to Pushpa 2, which benefited from the massive Pan India release. However, in the long run, Aditya Dhar's directed film is expected to beat Pushpa 2 and become the number 1 film at the Indian box office. Baahubali, KGF, Pushpa, Dhurandhar - Part 1 vs Part 2 India Gross Comparison (1st 4 Days) Movie Part 1 Part 2 Baahubali - ₹ 485.00 Cr KGF ₹ 83.40 Cr ₹ 462.50 Cr Pushpa ₹ 147.70 Cr ₹ 632.42 Cr Dhurandhar ₹ 151.50 Cr ₹ 541.97 Cr __________________________________________________________________________ Mumbai, March 22 - After the big first two days, the third day of each movie (in this article) has been huge, but Dhurandhar 2 took things to another level without as much support as the other three films got from their non-original films. The Aditya Dhar-directed spy actioner had a monumental day 3 at the Indian box office, which saw the Hindi version topping 100+ crore net for the first time. It is now only behind Pushpa 2, which had a wider pan-India release, after the first three days at the domestic box office. Baahubali, KGF, Pushpa, Dhurandhar - Part 1 vs Part 2 India Gross Comparison (1st 3 Days) Movie Part 1 Part 2 Baahubali - ₹ 382.00 Cr KGF ₹ 69.80 Cr ₹ 355.50 Cr Pushpa ₹ 128.05 Cr ₹ 463.90 Cr Dhurandhar ₹ 123.60 Cr ₹ 400.35 Cr __________________________________________________________________________ Mumbai, March 21 - The trend of sequels, or say Part 2, outperforming their predecessors has become a defining pattern in Indian cinema, especially when it comes to large-scale franchise films which resonated beyond regional boundaries. From Baahubali: The Beginning to Dhurandhar 2, filmmakers have successfully expanded their cinematic universes, often turning second instalments into historic box office juggernauts. Here's a look at how Part 2 of some of the biggest Indian blockbusters - Dhurandhar, Pushpa, KGF, and Baahubali - compare with their first parts. Baahubali: The Franchise That Started It All Baahubali: The Beginning was a massive success, but it was Baahubali 2: The Conclusion that rewrote Indian box office history. At a time when ticket prices were comparatively lower than today, Baahubali 2 was a phenomenon beyond boundaries. While it is difficult for most of the movies to generate 10 million admissions in their lifetime runs, Baahubali 2 scored 1+ crore admissions in India on day 1 alone, which still seems out of the world in a country where theatre screens are still insufficient when compared to the large cinema-going audience. While the first film laid the foundation with its grand storytelling and visual spectacle, the sequel capitalised on the iconic question, "Why did Kattappa kill Baahubali?" The result was unprecedented hype, leading to a record-breaking theatrical run that far surpassed the original in every market. It remains the biggest Indian blockbuster of the 21st century with over 100 million tickets sold here. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Baahubali Films India Gross (Lifetime) S. No. Movie India Gross (Lifetime) 1 Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) ₹ 516 Crore 2 Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017) ₹ 1416.90 Crore KGF: A Cult Phenomenon Turned Monster Hit KGF: Chapter 1 gained cult popularity, particularly through satellite and digital platforms. However, KGF: Chapter 2 arrived with massive anticipation and delivered a box office explosion. The sequel not only opened bigger but also sustained exceptionally well, becoming one of the highest-grossing Indian films and the highest-grossing Kannada movie ever, dwarfing the lifetime collections of Part 1 by a 5x margin. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) KGF Chapter 1 vs KGF Chapter 2 India Gross Comparison Day KGF: Chapter 1 (2018) KGF: Chapter 2 (2022) Day 1 ₹ 21.80 Crore ₹ 134.50 Crore Day 2 ₹ 23.20 Crore ₹ 105.50 Crore Day 3 ₹ 24.80 Crore ₹ 95.50 Crore Day 4 ₹ 13.60 Crore ₹ 107.00 Crore Lifetime ₹ 227.15 Crore ₹ 1000.85 Crore Pushpa: Rise vs Rule Pushpa: The Rise started as a strong performer, especially in Telugu markets. However, it was the Hindi market where the movie turned into an unexpected big hit and laid the foundation for its successor to rule the most important territory in India. Building on that popularity, Pushpa 2: The Rule took things to another level. With heightened scale, stronger promotions, and pan-India appeal, the sequel shattered opening day and weekend records, easily outpacing the first part and establishing itself as a global blockbuster. Pushpa The Rise vs Pushpa The Rule India Gross Comparison Day Pushpa: The Rise (2021) Pushpa: The Rule (2024) Day 1 ₹ 52.80 Crore ₹ 209.20 Crore (inc. pre.) Day 2 ₹ 36.40 Crore ₹ 112.10 Crore Day 3 ₹ 38.85 Crore ₹ 142.60 Crore Day 4 ₹ 19.65 Crore ₹ 168.60 Crore Lifetime ₹ 313.80 Crore ₹ 1471.10 Crore (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Dhurandhar: A New-Age Box Office Titan Dhurandhar emerged as a major success, but its sequel, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, has taken the franchise into uncharted territory. With massive pre-sales, record-breaking ticket demand, and a historic opening, the second instalment has already outperformed Part 1 in terms of initial numbers. Despite some setbacks like show cancellations in dubbed versions, the film has demonstrated the sheer power of franchise hype in today's market. Unlike the other three films (in this article), Dhurandhar Part 1 itself was a monstrous hit with over 1000 crore gross at the Indian box office. It is the only original film to reach this figure at the domestic box office. Part 2, which is the continuation of the first film, has started on an unpremeditated note and is expected to outgross the first film very soon. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Dhurandhar vs Dhurandhar The Revenge India Gross Comparison Day Dhurandhar (2025) Dhurandhar: The Revenge (2026) Day 1 ₹ 33.60 Crore ₹ 172.60 Crore (inc. pre.) Day 2 ₹ 38.40 Crore ₹ 96.75 Crore Day 3 ₹ 51.60 Crore ₹ 135.15 Crore Day 4 ₹ 27.90 Crore ₹ 136.75 Crore Lifetime ₹ 1007.85 Crore ₹ - What connects all these films is a common trajectory - Part 1 builds the world and audience base, while Part 2 reaps the benefits of anticipation and scale. Sequels often come with bigger budgets, improved storytelling, and a deeper emotional payoff, making them more appealing to a wider audience. From Baahubali 2: The Conclusion setting the benchmark to Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge carrying the momentum forward, Indian cinema has mastered the art of the sequel. In most of the cases, Part 2 doesn't just match expectations, it surpasses them, proving that when done right, franchises only grow stronger with time. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Aadu 3: One Last Ride – Part 1 has taken a strong start at the box office, collecting ₹5.95 Cr net in India on Day 1. The film recorded an India gross of ₹7.00 Cr, while its worldwide collection stands at ₹17.75 Cr, including a significant ₹10.75 Cr from overseas markets. The film recorded a strong performance in its home market, with Kerala alone contributing ₹6.05 Cr gross on Day 1, accounting for the majority of its India collections and reflecting solid initial turnout across the state. The opening highlights the strong pull of the franchise, particularly in overseas territories where Malayalam films traditionally perform well. The overseas contribution forms a major share of the Day 1 worldwide total, underlining the film's popularity among the international audiences. Directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas, the film marks the third installment in the Aadu franchise, following Aadu (2015) and Aadu 2 (2017). While the first film had a modest theatrical run and later gained cult status, Aadu 2 turned out to be a commercial success, significantly expanding the franchise's fan base and setting the stage for a bigger third part. The film features a returning ensemble cast led by Jayasurya as Shaji Pappan, along with Vinayakan, Saiju Kurup, Sunny Wayne, Vijay Babu, Indrans, and Dharmajan Bolgatty. The film is produced by Vijay Babu and Venu Kunnappilly, with music composed by Shaan Rahman, continuing the franchise's signature style and tone. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) From a trend perspective, Aadu 3 has emerged as one of the stronger openings for a Malayalam film in 2026, supported by franchise recall and steady advance bookings. The film has particularly benefited from strong initial turnout in Kerala and a robust response in overseas markets. The film continues the quirky narrative style of the franchise, blending comedy with fantasy elements while bringing back fan-favourite characters. The decision to present the story as a larger-scale installment has further added to the anticipation among audiences. While the opening is strong, the focus now shifts to its weekend performance and sustainability. Given the franchise value and strong overseas pull, Aadu 3 is expected to maintain momentum over the next few days, which will be crucial in determining its overall box office trajectory. With no major competing releases in the immediate window, the film has a clear opportunity to perform well, provided word of mouth remains positive. Overall, Aadu 3 has begun its theatrical run on a solid note, leveraging franchise popularity, returning cast, and strong international demand to deliver a promising Day 1 performance.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Project Hail Mary has generated fresh buzz in India after it was revealed that Hrithik Roshan has collaborated with the makers to promote the Ryan Gosling-led Hollywood film. The association marks a notable crossover moment, with a leading Indian star coming on board to introduce a major international project to domestic audiences. The film, backed by Amazon MGM Studios and distributed internationally by Sony Pictures, is one of the most anticipated sci-fi releases, based on Andy Weir's bestselling novel. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the project combines large-scale science fiction with a character-driven survival story, positioning it as a high-concept global release. Hrithik Roshan's involvement is seen as a strategic move to enhance the film's visibility in India, particularly in the Hindi-speaking markets. Hollywood studios have increasingly relied on localized promotions and collaborations to widen reach, and this partnership reflects that evolving distribution approach. The film stars Ryan Gosling in the lead role, playing a lone astronaut tasked with saving Earth from an extinction-level crisis. The narrative blends scientific concepts with emotional storytelling, a formula that has previously worked well for global audiences and could resonate with Indian viewers as well. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Watch:Hrithik Roshan introduces Project Hail Mary to Indian audiences. In India, the film is planned for a multi-language release, including English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, underlining the importance of dubbed versions in expanding reach beyond metro audiences. This strategy aligns with recent trends where Hollywood films have seen improved performance in regional markets through wider language accessibility. The collaboration also comes at a time when the Indian theatrical landscape is witnessing strong competition from large-scale domestic releases. Industry observers note that such partnerships help international films maintain visibility even in a crowded release window. Overall, Project Hail Mary's India strategy reflects a broader shift in how Hollywood studios approach the market—combining global scale with localized promotion. With Ryan Gosling leading the film and Hrithik Roshan amplifying its presence in India, the film enters the market with strong positioning and heightened awareness among audiences.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Ustaad Bhagat Singh, starring Pawan Kalyan and directed by Harish Shankar, opened with ₹34.75 Cr net in India on Day 1, with a worldwide gross of ₹48.00 Cr and ₹7.00 Cr coming from overseas markets. Released during the festive window, the film benefitted from strong footfall in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, but the overall opening reflects a performance that is steady rather than exceptional for a film of this scale. The film, produced by Mythri Movie Makers, features Pawan Kalyan in a mass-oriented role alongside Sreeleela and Raashii Khanna. It marks the reunion of Pawan Kalyan and director Harish Shankar after the blockbuster Gabbar Singh (2012), coming together again after more than a decade. The film carried expectations of delivering a high-energy commercial entertainer; however, early reception appears to be mixed, which may have slightly limited its opening momentum beyond core markets. A key comparison emerges with Pawan Kalyan's previous release, They Call Him OG. While that film opened to a massive ₹84.75 Cr net in India and a strong ₹42.50 Cr overseas on Day 1, Ustaad Bhagat Singh has managed only ₹7.00 Cr overseas. This significant gap highlights a weaker international pull, even though the film has performed well in domestic mass circuits. The current opening also reflects broader market dynamics. While Ustaad Bhagat Singh dominated single screens and its primary Telugu-speaking regions, its reach remained limited in multiplexes and overseas territories. At the same time, Dhurandhar 2 has generated stronger traction in these segments, creating competition that has impacted the overall scale of the opening. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Despite the competition, the film has managed to secure a place among the top 10 Day 1 openers in Telugu cinema, ranking at the 9th position with ₹41 Cr net. However, the clustering of multiple films at the same figure indicates that it has not broken into the top-tier bracket dominated by the biggest recent releases. Take a look at the top 10 Telugu movies day 1 net 1. RRR – ₹103 Cr 2. Pushpa: The Rule – Part 2 – ₹80 Cr 3. Devara: Part 1 – ₹73 Cr 4. Salaar: Cease Fire – Part 1 – ₹67 Cr 5. Kalki 2898 AD – ₹66 Cr 6. They Call Him OG – ₹63 Cr 7. Sarkaru Vaari Paata / The Raja Saab – ₹47 Cr 8. Sarileru Neekevvaru – ₹46 Cr 9. Guntur Kaaram / Game Changer / Ustaad Bhagat Singh – ₹41 Cr 10. Vakeel Saab – ₹40 Cr Going forward, the film's box office trajectory will depend on its hold over the weekend and word of mouth, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. A strong trend in these regions could help it build on its opening, but the relatively lower overseas contribution and competition in key markets remain important factors to watch.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Youth has opened to a decent start at the Tamil box office, collecting around ₹3.60 Cr net in India on Day 1, with the gross estimated at ₹4.20 Cr. The coming-of-age romantic drama has registered steady occupancy, particularly in urban centres, backed by initial positive word of mouth among younger audiences. Directed by Ken Karunas in his directorial debut, the film features a young ensemble cast including Ken Karunas, Anishma Anilkumar, Priyanshi Yadav, and Meenakshi Dinesh, along with experienced actors like Suraj Venjaramoodu and Devadarshini. The film is produced by Karuppiah C Ram and Sulochana Kumar, with music composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar. Ken Karunas, who plays the lead in Youth, is one of the emerging young actors in Tamil cinema and the son of actor Karunas. He first gained recognition with his role in the critically acclaimed film Asuran (2019), where he played one of Dhanush’s sons, a performance that brought him significant attention. He later appeared in films like Vaathi and Viduthalai: Part 2, continuing to build a steady presence with supporting yet impactful roles. Over the years, he has also worked behind the scenes as an assistant director on films such as Thiruchitrambalam and Raayan, before making his directorial debut with Youth. His transition from a supporting actor to a lead actor and director marks an important phase in his career, positioning him as a promising talent to watch in the industry. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The film revolves around a teenage boy navigating love and relationships during his school years, blending romance, comedy, and emotional moments. Its youthful theme and school backdrop have worked in its favour, attracting a younger audience segment and generating decent initial traction. Pre-release buzz for the film was driven by its relatable storyline and the novelty factor of Ken Karunas stepping into direction. The trailer, which highlighted a mix of romance and humour set in a school environment, had gained attention on social media, contributing to its opening. While the opening numbers are modest compared to big-ticket Tamil releases, they are strong relative to the film's scale and budget. With limited competition and positive word of mouth, the film is expected to see growth over the weekend, which will be crucial in determining its box office trajectory. Overall, Youth has begun its theatrical run on a stable note, and its performance over the next few days will indicate whether it can emerge as a profitable venture at the box office.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, March 12 - Indian cinema has often pushed the boundaries of storytelling with ambitious runtimes, especially when it comes to epic dramas and large-scale productions. Over the decades, several films have crossed the three-hour mark, but only a handful have gone far beyond that to become some of the longest theatrical releases in Indian film history. Over the last few years, several Indian films have crossed 3 hours of runtime, and a couple of them even went on to rank among the longest films ever. The upcoming sequel Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge has reportedly joined this rare list with its massive runtime of nearly 4 hours, which is almost unheard of for an Indian title in recent times. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) 1. LOC: Kargil (2003) J. P. Dutta's epic historical war film, based on the Kargil War, is the longest Indian film with a theatrical runtime of 4 hours and 15 minutes (255 minutes). Released in December 2023, the film featured a massive ensemble cast including Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn, Saif Ali Khan, and Sunil Shetty, among others. 2. Mera Naam Joker (1970) Directed and headlined by Raj Kapoor, the epic romantic drama film has gained a cult status over the years despite being a theatrical flop. It remained the longest Indian theatrical title for over 3 decades, with 4 hours and 8 minutes (248 minutes). The movie also starred Simi Garewal, Kseniya Ryabinkina, Padmini, Manoj Kumar, Rajendra Kumar, Dharmendra, and Dara Singh. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) 3. Sangam (1964) One of the first films to be shot abroad in locations including London, Paris and Switzerland, Sangam is a romantic musical drama, directed and headlined by Raj Kapoor. With a theatrical runtime of 3 hours and 58 minutes (238 minutes), it was the longest film before Kapoor's Mera Naam Joker. It also featured Vyjayanthimala and Rajendra Kumar. 4. Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge (2026) Directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh, Dhurandhar 2 is the second part of the massive blockbuster Dhurandhar, which was released in December last year. Scheduled to hit the big screens on March 19, The Revenge reportedly carries a theatrical runtime of 3 hours and 49 minutes (229 minutes), which is mindboggling to think in today's time. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) 5. Lagaan (2001) The Aamir Khan-fronted period sports drama had a runtime of 3 hours and 44 minutes (224 minutes). Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, the film also featured Gracy Singh, Rachel Shelley and Paul Blackthorne in key roles. It was reportedly the costliest Indian film at the time of its release. Stay tuned...