BY SACNILK

Rishab Shetty is currently at a peak in his career, especially after his National Award win for Kantara. If you have been following his upcoming line-up, it is clear that he is moving toward massive, high-budget epics. According to a report by Variety India, his highly anticipated historical project, The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, has now seen a major change in its production strategy. Originally planned as a single film, the makers have decided to expand the story into a two-part theatrical saga. This expansion is not just about the length of the story but also the sheer scale of the production. Variety India has revealed that the film is being mounted on a massive budget of over ₹500 crore. This puts it among the most expensive historical dramas ever produced in Indian cinema. The vision behind splitting the film into two chapters is to capture the vast legacy and defining moments of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with the detail they deserve. The current plan is to release the first chapter in 2028, with the second chapter following closely in 2029. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Director Sandeep Singh is aiming for a high level of authenticity, with a significant portion of the filming expected to take place across Maharashtra. This is where the Maratha kingdom was established, and the team wants to bring those historical sites to life on the big screen. However, fans will have to wait a bit longer for cameras to start rolling. Rishab Shetty is first expected to complete his work on Jai Hanuman, directed by Prashanth Varma, which is slated for a 2027 release. Once his commitments for that film are over, he will fully transition into the role of the legendary Maratha ruler. The scale of this project marks a significant moment for Hindi-language cinema as well, as it is being positioned as one of the most ambitious interpretations of Shivaji Maharaj's life. While the Maratha ruler has been the subject of many films over the years, the ₹500 crore budget and the two-part structure suggest that this version will be on a different level entirely. The first look of Rishab Shetty in this role has already created a lot of conversation online, and the official confirmation of this revised release strategy has only added to the anticipation. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Beyond the budget and the scale, there has also been a lot of discussion regarding a potential box office clash that has now been averted. Earlier reports suggested that the film might go head-to-head with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's highly anticipated Love and War. However, by moving the release of the first chapter to 2028, the makers have effectively avoided a massive confrontation. This shift is being seen as a calculated strategic move to ensure that both projects have enough breathing room at the box office. By choosing a solo window, the production team aims to maximize screen counts and audience reach, preventing two of Indian cinema’s biggest titles from eating into each other’s revenue. As of now, the technical crew and the rest of the supporting cast are yet to be officially announced. With Jai Hanuman in 2027 and the two parts of the Shivaji saga in 2028 and 2029, Rishab Shetty's schedule for the next few years is officially packed with some of the biggest films in the country.

BY SACNILK

The Indian film industry was bracing itself for one of the biggest box office face-offs in recent memory, but it looks like a major collision has been averted. We are talking about the upcoming historical epic, The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, starring Kantara fame Rishab Shetty. Reports are now circulating that the makers have decided to push back their release to avoid a direct confrontation with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's star-studded Love and War. This move is being viewed as a strategic decision to ensure both high-profile projects get the breathing room they deserve at the box office. The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is being mounted on a massive scale, marking the directorial debut of producer Sandeep Singh. To bring the 17th-century battle sequences to life, the production is reportedly utilizing international technical talent and heavy visual effects. The musical side of the project is equally ambitious, with Pritam composing the score and Prasoon Joshi handling the lyrics. With a supporting cast that includes Shefali Shah and Zanai Bhosle, the film is clearly aiming for a grand pan-Indian impact across multiple languages including Hindi, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and Malayalam. While an official announcement is still awaited, the decision to postpone makes a lot of sense when you look at the calendars of the stars involved. Rishab Shetty is currently tied up with the highly anticipated Prasanth Varma's Jai Hanuman in the pipeline. Filming for the Shivaji biopic is expected to start in earnest only after he completes his prior commitments. By moving the date, the makers can ensure that Rishab is fully available for the demanding physical role of the legendary Maratha ruler. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) On the other side of the potential clash, Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love and War is already eyeing the lucrative four-day Republic Day weekend in early 2027. That film carries immense weight with a lead cast featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal. The industry is also mindful of the other major projects these actors have lined up. Ranbir Kapoor will be seen in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana: Part One in late 2026, while Vicky Kaushal is committed to Mahavatar. Spacing out these tentpole releases is a smart move for everyone involved, especially for a project as significant as a biopic on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. By reportedly opting out of the early 2027 slot, the makers of the Shivaji biopic are avoiding what could have been a catastrophic split in the pan-Indian audience. A historical epic of this magnitude requires a clear window to maximize its box office potential across all regions. While we wait for the new official release date, it is clear that the production team is prioritizing the quality of the film and a clean theatrical window over a rushed release.

BY SACNILK

Recent data from booking platforms highlights the immense popularity of Christopher Nolan among Indian audiences. In just one day, The Odyssey recorded 14,000 interests on BookMyShow, staying well ahead of many highly anticipated Indian releases. A major reason behind this early traction is Nolan's popularity, which has reached an all-time high in India following the success of films such as Interstellar, Inception, and Oppenheimer. Over the years, he has built a loyal fan base that treats each of his projects as a major cinematic event, making his name alone a significant factor in driving audience interest, regardless of the film’s genre or origin. The Odyssey is drawing significant attention because it is the first feature film shot entirely using IMAX cameras. Beyond the technical milestone, the film features a massive cast including Matt Damon, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, and Charlize Theron. The story follows the perilous ten-year journey of Odysseus after the Trojan War, and the combination of Nolan’s direction with a pure IMAX format is driving early digital engagement ahead of its July 17 release. It appears the Nolan brand now carries the kind of weight in India that was previously reserved only for the biggest local stars. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Following in the second spot is the next Spider-Man installment, titled Brand New Day, which saw 4,000 interests. Recent reports indicate that the runtime for this Marvel entry is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. This substantial duration suggests a dense narrative for the franchise, which has always enjoyed a loyal following in India. The presence of international titles in the top positions is likely due to the high brand familiarity associated with these specific franchises and creators. While domestic films typically gain massive traction closer to their release dates, the current digital engagement for Hollywood projects indicates that their established audiences are actively tracking these films even in the early stages of the release cycle. When comparing these figures to anticipated domestic titles, projects like Yash's Toxic and Prabhas' Spirit are currently seeing lower daily interest volumes. Toxic recorded 2,000 interests, while Spirit, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, saw 1,000. While these numbers are likely to surge once trailers and official marketing campaigns begin, the current lead held by Hollywood is a notable data point. Other titles in the list include Cocktail 2 and BharatBhagyaViddhaata, which are also working to build momentum among digital users. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) BookMyShow Interest Trends - Last 24 HoursMOVIE NAMEINTERESTS (24 HOURS)The Odyssey14,000Spider-Man: Brand New Day4,000Toxic2,000Cocktail 21,600Spirit1,000 While domestic films typically dominate the overall box office through sheer volume and wider reach, the early excitement for the upcoming season is being driven largely by big-budget international spectacles. The high interest in a 2.5-hour Spider-Man film and a pure IMAX Nolan epic indicates that the theatrical experience is being increasingly valued for its scale and technical quality across major Indian cities.

BY SACNILK

BookMyShow (BMS) interest levels over the last 24 hours provide a clear look at which upcoming films are currently generating the most traction. Leading the list is Ram Charan's Peddi, followed by global spectacles like Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Avengers: Doomsday, as well as highly anticipated local projects like Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, Spirit, Toxic, and Cocktail 2. BMS Interests | Last 24 HoursMOVIE NAMEINTERESTS / LIKESPeddi7KSpider-Man: Brand New Day2KHai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai1.3KAvengers: Doomsday1KSpirit1KToxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups1KCocktail 2600 Leading the pack is Ram Charan’s Peddi, which is showing immense ground-level hype. The film has already cleared its censor formalities with a U/A certificate, and it is going to be a long sitting for the audience with a runtime of 189 minutes (3 hours and 9 minutes). Overseas, the momentum is even more impressive. According to data from Venky Box Office, the North America premiere advance sales have already touched $533K with over 18,900 tickets sold, even with 8 days still left for the premiere. On the business side, Netflix India has secured the post-theatrical rights for a reported ₹130 crore, which includes extra bonus payouts depending on how well the film performs at the box office. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) On the global front, Tom Holland’s Spider-Man: Brand New Day is rewriting the record books before its July 31, 2026 release. The trailer alone pulled in a historic 718.6 million views in 24 hours, completely smashing the previous record held by Deadpool & Wolverine. It didn't stop there, crossing the 1 billion mark in just four days. Early tracking for the North American opening weekend suggests a massive $150 million to $200 million start. For those craving some classic Bollywood rom-com vibes, David Dhawan is returning with Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai on June 5, 2026. This marks his fourth collaboration with son Varun Dhawan and features a chaotic love triangle with Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde. Mounted on a controlled budget of ₹40 crore, the film leans heavily into 90s nostalgia, even recreating the iconic track Ishq Chandi Hai, Ishq Sona Hai. It is being viewed as a low-risk, high-return project for the industry. Marvel is also prepping its ultimate comeback with Avengers: Doomsday, slated for December 18, 2026. With the Russo brothers returning to direct and Robert Downey Jr. back in the mix as Doctor Doom, the industry standard for this film is a billion dollars at the bare minimum. Long-lead tracking is already pointing toward a potential $2 billion global finish, making it a heavy favorite to dominate the 2026 box office alongside Spider-Man. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Looking further into the future, Prabhas is gearing up for his landmark 25th film, Spirit, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. Tracking for a March 5, 2027 release, the film reportedly features Prabhas as an aggressive IPS officer. Meanwhile, Rocking Star Yash is set to return after a four-year hiatus with Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups. This Goa-based gangster saga is being mounted on a gargantuan budget of ₹700–₹800 crore, unfolding as a savage period drama set between the 1940s and the 1970s. Finally, we have Cocktail 2, a spiritual sequel to the 2012 hit, locked for June 19, 2026. The film features a fresh trio of Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna. While the first single Mashooqa faced some plagiarism allegations, the chemistry between the leads has kept the buzz alive. The film's first major box office goal will be to overtake the ₹109 crore gross of Pati Patni Aur Woh to secure a spot among the top romantic comedies of the decade. With such a diverse and heavy-hitting lineup, the theatrical business is looking incredibly healthy for the next two years.

BY SACNILK

Pati Patni Aur Woh Do has taken a significant lead in the latest 24-hour interest data on BookMyShow, recording over 10.1K interests. This puts the Hindi romantic comedy at the top of the list for upcoming Indian releases, showing a clear preference from the audience compared to other high-profile titles currently trending on the platform. Pati Patni Aur Woh Do is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 15, 2026. Directed by Mudassar Aziz, the film features Ayushmann Khurrana alongside Sara Ali Khan, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Rakul Preet Singh. There has been a lot of conversation online regarding the film theme, specifically around the concept of infidelity. However, Ayushmann Khurrana has stepped in to clarify that the movie is a family-friendly comedy of errors rather than a serious take on extramarital affairs. The excitement for this sequel is largely driven by the upping of stakes, with the protagonist now caught between three leading ladies. In the Tamil market, Suriya upcoming film Karuppu is also making waves with 2.4K interests. Set to release on May 14, 2026, this RJ Balaji directorial is special for fans as it marks the reunion of Suriya and Trisha Krishnan after nearly 20 years. The film, which has already cleared the censors with a U/A certificate, features Suriya as a lawyer who takes on a supernatural superhuman persona to deliver justice. The trade buzz is equally strong, with theatrical rights reportedly sold for over 45 crore and a record-breaking digital deal with Netflix already in place. BMS Interest Trends & Release Details (As of May 7, 2026)MOVIE NAMEBMS INTEREST (24H)RELEASE DATEPati Patni Aur Woh Do10.1KMay 15, 2026Karuppu2.4KMay 14, 2026Drishyam 3 (Malayalam)1.7KMay 21, 2026Peddi1KJune 4, 2026Spirit1KMarch 5, 2027 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Moving to the Malayalam industry, the highly anticipated Drishyam 3 is seeing a steady rise in interest with 1.7K recorded. The Mohanlal-Jeethu Joseph combination remains a gold standard for the genre, and the film is set to release on May 21, 2026, coinciding with the superstar birthday. The film has already secured a record-breaking North American theatrical deal worth 10 crore. Interestingly, the global premiere will take place in the USA on May 20, a day before the India release. Pre-sales in international markets like the UK and Gulf have already begun, showing strong early numbers. The Telugu film industry also has its share of big hitters in the pipeline. Ram Charan sports action drama Peddi has started its USA show listings with premiere pricing set at 35 for IMAX. Directed by Buchi Babu Sana and featuring music by A.R. Rahman, the film is scheduled for June 4, 2026. Meanwhile, Prabhas Spirit, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, continues to hold a spot in the top interests despite its release being much further away on March 5, 2027. The project, which features Triptii Dimri, will see Prabhas playing a fierce police officer for the first time, adding to the long-term curiosity surrounding the film. Overall, the interest levels across these films show a balanced mix of genres, from light-hearted comedies and supernatural thrillers to high-stakes dramas. The digital traction is a good indicator of opening day potential, and as these release dates draw closer, we can expect these numbers to climb even further across all major platforms.

BY SACNILK

Fans of Prabhas have been following various reports regarding his upcoming project with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga. Recently, several rumors were circulating that Spirit might be postponed to December 2027. However, the makers have now officially clarified that the film is progressing exactly as planned. The high-octane action drama is set to arrive in cinemas worldwide on 5 March 2027, putting an end to all postponement speculation and confirming that there is absolutely no delay. This clarification is particularly significant because of how it impacts the box office calendar for 2027. When reports of a possible postponement first surfaced, many believed it would clear the path for Salman Khan's upcoming film with Nayanthara, which is scheduled for an Eid release that same year. Salman Khan has long been considered the king of Eid releases, and a shift for Spirit would have potentially given him a solo window to dominate the box office as he usually does. With the official confirmation that Spirit is staying on its March date, the industry is now looking at a very busy and competitive year for major superstars. Spirit marks a notable departure for director Sandeep Reddy Vanga in terms of characterization. While his previous leads in Arjun Reddy and Animal were depicted as coming from wealthy backgrounds, the protagonist in this film comes from a middle-class setting. Prabhas will be playing the role of a disgraced former police officer who takes a ruthless, no-nonsense approach to dismantle an international crime syndicate. This is the first time in his career that Prabhas will be portraying a police officer, which has added a lot of curiosity regarding his look and performance in the film. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The project also features a strong ensemble cast designed for pan-Indian and international appeal. Triptii Dimri is set to play the female lead, reportedly portraying a doctor who becomes romantically involved with the character played by Prabhas. Vivek Oberoi is rumored to be the primary antagonist, while Prakash Raj will take on the role of a jail superintendent who has intense confrontations with the protagonist. The inclusion of veteran actress Kanchana in a pivotal supporting role further strengthens the lineup, making it a very interesting mix of talent. One of the most discussed aspects of the casting is the potential involvement of South Korean action star Don Lee, also known as Ma Dong-seok. There is strong speculation and ongoing talks for the Train to Busan star to join as a key international antagonist, which would give the film a massive global edge. Produced by Bhushan Kumar and T-Series, Spirit remains one of the most anticipated films in Indian cinema. With the release date now firmly set for March 2027, fans and trade analysts are eagerly waiting to see how this intense, character-driven saga unfolds on the big screen.

BY SACNILK

Hyderabad, April 21 - The Telugu film industry is lining up what could be one of its most explosive years yet at the box office in 2027. With a carefully spaced release calendar and a lineup of mega-budget films featuring top-tier stars and visionary filmmakers, Tollywood is preparing for a global takeover. Spirit: The Explosive Kickstart to 2027 Pan India superstar Prabhas has teamed up with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga for a cop action thriller Spirit. Slated for a March 5 release, the film is expected to set the tone for what could be the best year ever for Telugu cinema, not just at the Indian box office, but also globally. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Spirit marks the first collaboration between Prabhas and Vanga, making it one of the most anticipated projects in Indian cinema. With Vanga known for his hard-hitting storytelling and Prabhas commanding a massive pan-India fanbase, the film is expected to open to record numbers at the box office and set the tone for the year. Varanasi: Rajamouli's Global Spectacle Following the global success of RRR, SS Rajamouli is coming up with his next spectacle Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu with Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The action-adventure is scheduled to release on April 7, 2027. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Mounted on a grand scale and budget, Varanasi is said to blend an episode of Ramayana with time-travel elements and is being designed as a global cinematic experience. After the unprecedented success of RRR, expectations from Rajamouli are sky-high, and this film could redefine international benchmarks once again. Dragon: Jr NTR & Prashanth Neel To Bring Mass Mayhem The latest film to join the 2027 mega showdown is Dragon a.k.a. NTRNeel. The summer season will witness the arrival of Dragon, starring Jr. NTR and directed by Prashanth Neel. The film is locked for a June 11, 2027, release, after being pushed from its original June 2026 launch. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Known for his stylised gritty action and larger-than-life narratives, Prashanth Neel teaming up with Jr NTR for the first time has already generated immense buzz. Dragon is expected to be a high-octane entertainer packed with powerful action sequences and strong mass appeal, making it a potential blockbuster. Raaka: Allu Arjun & Atlee's Sci-Fi Spectacle Closing the year could be Raaka, starring Allu Arjun and directed by Atlee. It is perhaps the most intriguing collaboration where Atlee steps out from his usual commercial template to create something which he has never attempted before. While the exact release date is yet to be confirmed, the film is expected to arrive in the latter half of 2027. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Touted as a VFX-heavy sci-fi spectacle, Raaka is being designed for a pan-India and global audience. After the massive success of Pushpa 2, expectations from Allu Arjun's next have skyrocketed, and this film could end the year on a record-breaking note. With Spirit, Varanasi, Dragon, and Raaka spaced across the year, with a few more expected to join the bandwagon, Tollywood has built a powerful release calendar for 2027. Each film carries blockbuster potential, and together, they could make 2027 a landmark year not just for Tollywood but for Indian cinema, further strengthening its position on the global stage.

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, April 17 - Bollywood superstar Ranbir Kapoor is currently going through what industry experts call the "Golden Phase" of his career. Following the historic box office success of Animal (2023), the actor has strategically chosen a lineup that balances grandeur with gritty action and high-concept drama. While it may have been over 2 years since Ranbir has had a release after Animal, the next few years will probably see at least one film of the actor hitting the big screens. Here is a deep dive into Ranbir Kapoor's films that will define Indian cinema over the next three years. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) 1. Ramayana Parts 1 & 2 Director Nitesh Tiwari is currently helming what is arguably the most ambitious project in Indian cinematic history. Ranbir Kapoor steps into the role of Lord Ram, a performance that reportedly required months of physical transformation and vocal training, which is reflected in the first look teaser, though it doesn't have any dialogue. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The scale of this production is unprecedented, and the makers gave a glimpse of that by launching the first look teaser recently, after earlier showing the vision. The ensemble cast is equally legendary, featuring Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, and Sunny Deol as Hanuman. Part 1 is scheduled for a grand Diwali 2026 release, with Part 2 following exactly a year later. 2. Love & War (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) In a massive casting coup, filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali has reunited Ranbir Kapoor with Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal for a period romantic war drama, Love & War. This marks Ranbir's first collaboration with Bhansali since his debut in Saawariya (2007). Unlike Bhansali’s recent period pieces, this film is described as a "contemporary war-backed romance." With a release date locked for January 21, 2027, after being postponed multiple times, the film is expected to dominate the Republic Day holiday window with its blend of intense emotion and visual splendour. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) 3. Animal Park Sandeep Reddy Vanga's action thriller Animal was a polarising juggernaut, and its sequel, Animal Park, is already one of the most searched upcoming titles. Ranbir will expand his role, playing both the protagonist Ranvijay and the menacing antagonist Aziz. The script is currently being finalised, with filming expected to commence once Vanga completes his project Spirit with superstar Prabhas. Fans should expect an even darker, more visceral exploration of the family's violent legacy sometime in late 2028. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) 4. Dhoom 4 Perhaps the most surprising addition to his roster is the reboot of the Dhoom franchise. While there is no official confirmation yet, Ranbir is set to take over the mantle of the sophisticated "anti-hero" in Dhoom 4. The film aims to modernise the heist-action genre for a global audience. The shooting timeline is yet unknown, but if all goes well, the film may hit the big screens in 2028. 5. Brahmāstra: Part Two – Dev (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Amid the uncertainty over its future, Ramayana producer Nitesh Tiwari recently confirmed that he will take care of Brahmastra 2 after Ramayana. The first film was produced by Dharma Productions and Star Studios. Except for the fact that the movie is on, there is no concrete development in it yet. Director Ayan Mukerji is currently busy with scripting, and if things go as planned, the movie might go on floors next year for a 2028 or 2029 release.

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, April 12 - Pan India superstar Prabhas and director Sandeep Reddy Vanga teamed up for the first time for a cop action thriller Spirit. The film is generating tremendous buzz among fans and the trade alike. The film is scheduled to release on March 5, 2027, in multiple languages. With nearly a year before the film hits the big screen, Spirit is attracting massive trade attention even without a first-look glimpse. According to the latest Telugu media reports, the makers have locked a theatrical deal for the Telugu states. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) While the details about the deal are not revealed yet, reliable reports have confirmed that Mythri Movies and People Media Factory have bagged the AP/TG theatrical rights of Spirit. The acquisition without seeing anything related to the movie reflects the huge trust trade has in the combination of Prabhas and Sandeep Vanga. Known for their solid distribution network, Mythri Movie Makers has steadily built dominance in key territories, particularly in Nizam. Their collaboration with People Media Factory further strengthens their reach, creating a reliable system capable of handling large-scale films with high expectations and wide audience demand. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Produced by T-Series and Bhadrakali Pictures, Spirit is currently in production. It has Triptii Dimri as the female lead alongside Vivek Oberoi as the antagonist, Kanchana, Aishwarya Desai, and Prakash Raj in key roles.

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, April 9 - The debate around all-time box office blockbuster Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge refuses to die down, but filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga has stepped in firmly in support of the film and its director Aditya Dhar. As the film faces criticism from certain sections, accusing it of pushing a political narrative, Vanga dismissed the noise and instead praised the film for its storytelling and execution. SRV Comes Out in Support, Calls It an "Outstanding Film" Reacting to the ongoing discourse, Vanga didn't mince words. He described Dhurandhar 2 as an "outstanding film", applauding Dhar's vision and conviction. According to him, cinema should not be restricted by labels or external narratives, and filmmakers must be free to tell stories they believe in. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Taking to the X, Vanga blasted off propaganda gang, while calling out their hypocrisy. "Writers & actors built careers on propaganda, and the industry stayed quiet like cats. Now the same clan mocks Dhurandhar. You don't get to call yourself liberal if your first instinct is to Mock. Don't know when truth started getting labelled as propaganda...... strange times", he said. Talking about the film, Vanga said that he watched it last night and called it an outstanding film. "COMING TO THE POINT..... I want to tell @AdityaDharFilms & @RanveerOfficial yeh kaala drishti aise nahi jaayega... Muthi bhar ke laal mirch se kaam nahi chalega.... poora khet jalana padega 🔥 Watched #Dhurandhar2‌TheRevenge last night.... Outstanding film". Writers & actors built careers on propaganda, and the industry stayed quiet like cats. Now the same clan mock Dhurandhar. You don’t get to call yourself liberal if your first instinct is to Mock. Don’t know when truth started getting labeled as propaganda...... strange times.…— Sandeep Reddy Vanga (@imvangasandeep) April 9, 2026 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The Propaganda Debate Since its release, Dhurandhar 2 has sparked conversations around whether it leans into propaganda. While critics argue that the film carries a certain ideological tone, supporters claim it is simply a hard-hitting narrative rooted in realism and creative interpretation. Vanga's backing adds weight to the latter argument, especially given his reputation for making bold and unapologetic films. Industry Voices Matter (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Support from a filmmaker like Sandeep Reddy Vanga is significant, as he himself is no stranger to polarising reactions. His endorsement signals a larger conversation within the film industry about creative freedom and audience interpretation. Meanwhile, Aditya Dhar has remained largely focused on the film's reception, letting the audience response speak louder than the controversy. Whether one sees Dhurandhar 2 as provocative or powerful, there's no denying that it has struck a chord, and the box office numbers are proof of that. The film continues to storm the box office and is heading towards 1700 crores worldwide. With influential voices like Vanga stepping in, the film's cultural and cinematic impact continues to grow.

BY SACNILK

When we analyse box office numbers closely, the real story is not just about the total India net collection, but about how much each region contributes to that total. The extended week performance of Dhurandhar 2, Jawan and Animal clearly shows that regional markets are now playing a crucial role in defining the true pan-India success of a film. Dhurandhar 2 had a historic extended week, collecting ₹674.17 Cr India net, and even crossed the ₹500 Cr mark in just 5 days, which shows its massive dominance in the Hindi belt. However, when we shift the focus to regional contribution, the story changes significantly. One of the biggest reasons for this was the confusion during the film's release in regional languages. The censor certificates for Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada versions were not acquired on time, which led to premiere show cancellations across multiple regions. In many places, audiences were either asked to watch the Hindi version or take refunds. Although the film released on Thursday, the proper regional rollout effectively began only from Saturday. This delay cost the film crucial opening momentum in South Indian markets. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Because of this, the regional contribution to Dhurandhar 2's total remained limited during the extended week, even though the film was performing at record levels overall. Dhurandhar 2 vs Jawan vs Animal: Extended Week Regional Box Office Collection (India Net) Movie Telugu Tamil Kannada Malayalam Regional Total Total India Net Regional % Share Jawan ₹ 18.04 Cr ₹ 23.86 Cr - - ₹ 41.90 Cr ₹ 389.88 Cr 10.75% Dhurandhar 2 ₹ 25.27 Cr ₹ 11.20 Cr ₹ 0.88 Cr ₹ 0.78 Cr ₹ 38.13 Cr ₹ 674.17 Cr 5.65% Animal ₹ 33.45 Cr ₹ 2.73 Cr ₹ 0.52 Cr ₹ 0.07 Cr ₹ 36.77 Cr ₹ 337.58 Cr 10.89% Note: Dhurandhar 2 and Jawan collections are for 8-day extended week, while Animal collections are for 7-day opening week. If we look at the table, Jawan clearly leads in terms of absolute regional contribution, followed by Dhurandhar 2 and Animal. However, when we look at percentage share, both Jawan and Animal are significantly ahead of Dhurandhar 2, which highlights the difference in market penetration. Jawan, powered by Shah Rukh Khan and directed by Atlee, delivered one of the most balanced regional performances among Hindi films in recent years. A major reason behind the strong Tamil numbers was Atlee's massive connection with the Tamil Nadu market. Since Atlee is one of the biggest commercial directors in Tamil cinema, the Tamil version of Jawan was not treated like a dubbed film but almost like a straight Tamil commercial film. This strong director–market connection helped Jawan perform extremely well in Tamil Nadu and across South Indian markets, significantly boosting its regional contribution. Similarly, Animal performed exceptionally well in the Telugu market primarily because of director Sandeep Reddy Vanga. He already had a massive fan base in Telugu states due to his previous work, and because of this strong recall value, the Telugu dubbed version of Animal opened strongly and sustained well during the first week. This clearly shows that the regional performance of Animal was driven by the director's market pull rather than just dubbing. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) In contrast, Dhurandhar 2 did not have a strong regional market face like Atlee in Tamil or Sandeep Reddy Vanga in Telugu. Additionally, the delayed release in regional languages further impacted its performance. The film lost crucial early days in South Indian markets, which are extremely important for building momentum. Because of these factors, the regional contribution percentage of Dhurandhar 2 remained lower despite its record-breaking overall numbers. The milestone timeline also highlights how differently these films connected with audiences. Dhurandhar 2 raced past the ₹500 Cr mark in just 5 days, showcasing the sheer strength of its opening and immediate audience pull. Jawan reached the milestone on Day 13, while Animal crossed it on Day 17, both reflecting strong and steady growth supported by multiple markets. What this comparison ultimately underlines is how evolving audience dynamics and market positioning are shaping box office trends today. Factors like director familiarity in certain regions, dubbing acceptance, release planning, and early momentum all play a crucial role in determining how widely a film performs across languages. At the same time, the bigger takeaway is that strong content and audience connection can go beyond regional boundaries. When a film truly resonates, it has the potential to perform across markets irrespective of language, as audiences today are more open than ever to exploring cinema beyond their primary language. In the end, while each film followed a different path in its extended week journey, all three highlight an important shift in Indian cinema — success is no longer confined to one region, and the true scale of a film is defined by how well it connects with audiences across the country.

BY SACNILK

Amazon Prime Video has officially unveiled its 2026 content slate, featuring over 40 titles across original series, returning seasons, and films. The lineup reflects an aggressive expansion strategy, combining star-led projects with content-driven storytelling while continuing to strengthen its presence across multiple Indian languages. A major highlight of the slate is the return of several established franchises. Popular shows like Panchayat, Call Me Bae, Inspector Rishi, Vadhandhi: The Mystery of Mani, Farzi, Dahaad, Sapne Vs Everyone, and The Traitors are set to return with new seasons. This signals a clear shift towards building long-term franchises, a strategy that has proven effective in retaining audiences and sustaining platform engagement over time. The slate also introduces a wide range of new original series such as Matka King, Storm, Exam, Gully, Rakh, The Revolutionaries, and Pyramid Scheme. These titles span multiple genres including crime, drama, youth-centric stories, and real-world inspired narratives, indicating a balanced content mix aimed at diverse audience segments. In terms of films, Prime Video continues to expand its direct-to-digital movie lineup with titles like Mess, System, A.S.I Babita Singh Reporting, and Sundar Poonam. These projects are expected to cater to both mainstream viewers and niche audiences, further strengthening the platform's film library. From a casting perspective, the slate features a mix of established and emerging talent. Jitendra Kumar returns with Panchayat, Ananya Panday headlines Call Me Bae, and Naveen Chandra continues his role in Inspector Rishi. Jyotika is also part of the film System, adding further star value to the movie lineup. At the same time, shows like Aspirants, Sandeep Bhaiya, and Gram Chikitsalay continue to focus on relatable, grounded storytelling with ensemble casts. A key trend visible in the 2026 slate is the balance between Hindi and regional content. While Hindi originals continue to dominate with major franchises, there is a notable push towards South Indian content with titles like Inspector Rishi, Vadhandhi, Isakapatnam, Jagamae Sangeetham, and Guvvala Cheruvu Ghat. This reflects Prime Video's intent to deepen its reach in regional markets, particularly in Telugu and Tamil-speaking regions. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The platform is also expanding beyond traditional scripted content. Reality and experimental formats such as The Traitors, Don't Be Shy, and College Fest highlight a growing focus on unscripted and youth-oriented programming, adding variety to the overall slate. Amazon Prime Video 2026 Slate - Movies & Series TITLETYPE Matka KingSeries StormSeries ExamSeries Aadrash Bal VidhyalayaSeries GullySeries RakhSeries Tax Department StorySeries Pyramid SchemeSeries LukkheSeries Teen KouweSeries IsakapatnamSeries The RevolutionariesSeries Jagamae SangeethamSeries Carnaame Badla Gear Palti KismatSeries Guvvala Cheruvu GhatSeries Welcome to Khoya MahalSeries AnarchSeries MessMovie SystemMovie A.S.I Babita Singh ReportingMovie Sundar PoonamMovie Call Me BaeSeries Vadhandhi: The Mystery of ManiSeries PanchayatSeries Inspector RishiSeries Sapne Vs EveryoneSeries The TraitorsSeries DupahiyaSeries DahaadSeries FarziSeries Gram ChikitsalaySeries Sandeep BhaiyaSeries NazdeekiyanSeries Dono Mile Iss TarahSeries AspirantsSeries The Traitors TeluguSeries Don't Be ShySeries Vansh: The Kalyug WarriorsSeries PhoolanSeries The Alliance IndiaSeries RafooSeries College FestSeries Compared to competing OTT platforms, Prime Video's 2026 lineup stands out for its scale and diversity. With over 40 titles spanning multiple genres, languages, and formats, the platform appears to be taking a broad-based approach to content acquisition and production, aiming to cater to a wide spectrum of viewers. Overall, the 2026 slate positions Amazon Prime Video strongly in the increasingly competitive Indian OTT space. With a mix of returning hits, new originals, star-driven projects, and regional expansion, the platform is set to maintain a strong content pipeline throughout the year.