BY SACNILK TEAM

Ranveer Singhs high-octane spy thriller, Dhurandhar, continues to dominate the domestic and international box office as it enters its seventh week of release. While the film is still pulling audiences into theaters, excitement has shifted toward its digital premiere.According to latest trade reports, the film has locked a streaming date, marking a significant milestone in the actor's career. In what is being described as one of the most lucrative digital rights agreements for a Hindi film, Dhurandhar is reportedly set to stream on Netflix starting January 30th. The streaming giant has secured the OTT rights for both Dhurandhar 1 and the upcoming Dhurandhar 2 in a combined deal valued at ₹130 crore, setting a new career-best benchmark for Ranveer Singh in the digital space. This significant investment by the platform reflects the film's massive cultural impact and the immense anticipation for the franchise's continuation across the globe. Since its release on December 5, Dhurandhar has maintained a remarkable hold, particularly in the North and overseas belts.Notably, the film is still drawing crowds, meaning the final lifetime collections are expected to rise further from the current reported totals. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   As the film continues its successful theatrical run, Dhurandhar has achieved unprecedented commercial milestones. The domestic performance remains the primary driver of its success, with the movie amassing a massive India Net collection of ₹825.1 crore, which translates to an India Gross of ₹989.9 crore. Internationally, the film has maintained a strong grip, contributing an Overseas collection of ₹293.6 crore. This brings the current Worldwide Gross to a staggering ₹1283.5 crore. Given its record-shattering statistics and sustained momentum, the film has officially been declared an All Time Blockbuster, emerging as one of the most successful ventures in the history of Indian cinema. The film's performance is highlighted by its incredible consistency, managing to collect in double digits for 28 consecutive days—a feat rarely seen in Indian cinema. This steady trajectory has placed it in direct competition with the highest-grossing Indian films of all time. The Dhurandhar saga is only halfway through, as the makers have already finalized the arrival of its much-anticipated sequel.Dhurandhar: Part 2 is officially scheduled to release in theaters on March 19th. To maintain the momentum, industry insiders suggest that a special teaser for the sequel will be attached to the theatrical prints of Border 2, ensuring maximum visibility before the first part concludes its digital and theatrical windows.With the first installment achieving All Time Blockbuster status, expectations for the March 19th release are at an all-time high.

BY SACNILK TEAM

The 2026 Sankranthi season has rewritten the record books of Telugu cinema. Megastar Chiranjeevi's latest outing, Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, has concluded its first week on a historic note, officially entering the elite list of the Top 10 highest-ever first-week net collections in the Telugu language. With a strong performance across both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the film has solidified its status as a certified blockbuster. Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu amassed a staggering ₹157.75 crore Telugu net in its opening seven days. With this achievement, the film has officially surpassed the first-week collections of Chiranjeevi's own previous record-holder, Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy (₹152 Cr), to become his highest opening-week grosser to date. The film currently sits at the 8th position on the all-time list, showcasing the Megastar's enduring pull at the box office. The performance is particularly noteworthy given the competitive landscape of the Top 10, which is dominated by massive Event Films like RRR, Pushpa 2, and Kalki 2898 AD. While these films benefitted from massive pan-India hype and higher ticket pricing, MSG has relied on immense family audience turnout and steady double-digit collections throughout its first week to climb the charts. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The arrival of Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu in the Top 10 highlights the massive expansion of the Telugu film market over the last two years. While MSG has dominated the 2026 Sankranthi season to take the 8th spot, its performance follows the benchmark set by the previous year's festive blockbusters. Specifically, the 2025 Pongal release, Sankranthiki Vastunnam, continues to hold its ground in the elite list at the 10th position with a first-week collection of ₹137 crore. The fact that both recent Sankranthi/Pongal releases have secured spots in the all-time Top 10 underscores the immense potential of the holiday window for high-budget commercial entertainers. This double entry highlights the massive expansion of the Telugu market and the audience's appetite for commercial entertainers during holidays. As Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu enters its second week, it continues to hold strong, with trade analysts predicting a healthy run that could see it challenge the lifetime totals of several films positioned higher on this list. Top 10 Highest First Week Telugu Net CollectionsRANKMOVIE NAMETELUGU NET (WEEK 1)1RRR₹ 298.51 Cr2Pushpa 2: The Rule₹ 242.00 Cr3Kalki 2898 AD₹ 212.25 Cr4Baahubali 2: The Conclusion₹ 203.00 Cr5Salaar: Cease Fire - Part 1₹ 186.05 Cr6OG₹ 165.00 Cr7Devara: Part 1₹ 164.00 Cr8Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu₹ 157.75 Cr9Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy₹ 152.00 Cr10Sankranthiki Vastunnam₹ 137.00 Cr

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Chennai, January 19 - It has been quite an eventful first month of the new year for Thalapathy Vijay on the professional front before he steps into full-time politics. Earlier in the month, the actor's swan song, Jana Nayagan, was forced to postpone due to censor issues with no immediate release in sight. With fans feeling disappointed with the postponement of Jana Nayagan, makers planned the re-release of Vijay's blockbuster film Theri for Republic Day weekend. But the plans seem to have taken a back seat for now, as reports say that the theatrical re-release of 2016's action thriller has been pushed back, this time, for a noble cause. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The decision to postpone Theri's re-release comes just days after the re-release had already been pushed from its initially planned January 15 date. According to the report, producer Kalaipuli S. Thanu of V Creations took the call to defer Theri's return to cinemas to accommodate several new Tamil releases slated for the same period. With multiple smaller and mid-budget films eyeing a January 23 release, the producer opted to step aside so that these films could get adequate screen space and a fair run at the box office. The move has been widely appreciated within the Tamil film industry, with people praising Thanu for prioritising industry harmony over the commercial advantage of a star-driven re-release. Given Thalapathy Vijay's massive fan base, Theri was expected to dominate screens and footfalls, potentially impacting the prospects of new releases. With this postponement, the much-talked-about re-release box office clash between Theri and Ajith Kumar's Mankatha has also been avoided. Makatha is scheduled for a January 23 re-release, and the pre-sales for the same are going strong. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The anticipation for the continuation of the Dhurandhar saga has reached a new peak with the latest official update regarding its promotional material. On January 19, 2026, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) officially certified the teaser for the sequel, titled Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge. In a move that highlights the film's gritty and high-octane nature, the teaser has been granted an A (Adults Only) certificate. The certified runtime for this first glimpse is clocked at exactly 1 minute and 48 seconds, promising a packed and intense introduction to the next chapter of the story. To maximize the film's reach, the makers have strategically decided to attach the Dhurandhar 2 teaser to the theatrical prints of the highly anticipated Border 2. Starting from Day 1 of the Border 2 release, audiences in cinemas will be the first to witness the return of the franchise on the big screen. This cross-promotion is expected to generate massive traction, given the overlapping audience base for both high-scale action spectacles. The sequel follows in the footsteps of a cinematic giant. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the first installment of Dhurandhar emerged as a generational blockbuster, redefining box office benchmarks for Indian cinema. The film featured an elite ensemble cast led by Ranveer Singh, alongside powerhouse performers like Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, and R. Madhavan. The plot, a sophisticated spy thriller centered on international espionage and high-stakes combat, resonated deeply with audiences globally. Currently continuing its record-shattering theatrical run, Dhurandhar has already achieved All Time Blockbuster status. The film's commercial performance remains extraordinary, having amassed a Worldwide Gross of ₹1283.5 crore to date. Its domestic journey has seen an India Net collection of ₹825.1 crore (Gross: ₹989.9 crore), while it continues to dominate international markets with an Overseas collection of ₹293.6 crore. The franchise's immense brand value was further solidified when Netflix acquired the combined digital rights for both parts in a landmark ₹130 crore deal, even as the first installment remains a top draw in cinemas. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Following the monumental success of the first installment, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge will see Ranveer Singh return as the primary lead, reprising his role as the undercover Indian agent Jaskirat Singh Rangi (Hamza). Director Aditya Dhar has finalized the return of the key ensemble cast, including Sanjay Dutt as SP Chaudhary Aslam, R. Madhavan as Ajay Sanyal, and Sara Arjun as Yalina. A significant development for the sequel is the return of Akshaye Khanna as Rehman Dakait; however, trade reports confirm his appearance is limited to pivotal flashback sequences that will explore the character's origins and deeper ties to the ongoing conflict. On the antagonistic front, the threat level is set to escalate as Arjun Rampal's character, Major Iqbal, takes a more central role following the events of the first film. The narrative will also revolve around the mysterious Bade Sahab, the shadow mastermind teased in Part 1, whose official casting is being kept under wraps by the makers for the theatrical release.With the sequel scheduled for theatrical release on March 19, 2026, the certification of the teaser marks the beginning of a high-decibel marketing campaign aimed at breaking the records set by its predecessor.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Netflix South has officially set the stage for a monumental year in Telugu cinema, pulling back the curtain on its star-studded movie slate for 2026. In what has become an eagerly awaited tradition, the streaming giant has revealed a lineup brimming with the industry's titans, visionary directors, and high-concept narratives that promise to resonate on a global scale. Featuring highly anticipated projects from Megastar Chiranjeevi, Prabhas, and Pawan Kalyan, alongside new-age stars like Nani and Vijay Deverakonda, this announcement signals a golden era for Tollywood on the digital stage. Following their theatrical runs, these films will be available exclusively on Netflix. 1. Peddi – Ram Charan The collaboration between Global Star Ram Charan and director Buchi Babu Sana for Peddi has already achieved pre-release blockbuster status. Netflix secured the digital rights for a record-breaking ₹105–₹130 crore, while T-Series acquired the music rights for ₹35 crore, helping the film recover a massive chunk of its ₹250–₹300 crore budget before its theatrical debut. Set in 1980s rural Andhra Pradesh, the film features Ram Charan in a starkly rugged transformation—complete with a nose ring and heavy beard—playing a villager who uses sports like cricket to defend his community's pride. The film's musical landscape, composed by A.R. Rahman, has already created history; the first single Chikiri Chikiri (a local term for beautiful women) garnered 46 million views in 24 hours and has since surpassed the 200 million mark. Mentored by Sukumar, Buchi Babu Sana has crafted a deeply rooted narrative that blends fictional and real-life rural tales into a high-stakes emotional drama. 2. Adarsha Kutumbam – Venkatesh One of the most significant entries on the slate is Aadarsha Kutumbam House No: 47 (popularly known as AK47), which marks the long-awaited collaboration between veteran actor Venkatesh Daggubati and the Wizard of Words, director Trivikram Srinivas. Moving away from extravagant action spectacles, the film is envisioned as a deeply grounded and relatable family entertainer, as hinted by its intriguing title and first-look materials. Produced by S. Radha Krishna (Chinababu) under the prestigious Haarika & Hassine Creations, the project pairs Venkatesh with Srinidhi Shetty for the first time. The film’s musical landscape is being crafted by Harshavardhan Rameshwar, ensuring a fresh sound for this family drama. Aiming for a grand Summer 2026 theatrical release, AK47 has already finalized its post-theatrical streaming deal with Netflix, making it a key highlight of the year for fans of clean, wholesome cinema. 3. VD14 – Vijay Deverakonda Reuniting after their 2018 hit Taxiwala, Vijay Deverakonda and director Rahul Sankrityan are crafting a massive period epic set against the backdrop of British colonial rule between 1854 and 1878. Rooted in the history of the Rayalaseema region, the film explores an untold story of revolution under the evocative theme, Legend of the Cursed Land. Produced by Mythri Movie Makers on a high-octane budget of approximately ₹100+ crore, the project features Vijay in a rugged, meditating hermit avatar, with the director promising a Vishwaroopam (magnificent) performance that will shock the audience. Adding international flair, South African actor Arnold Vosloo (The Mummy) is reported to play a formidable British officer, while Rashmika Mandanna and the legendary Amitabh Bachchan are strongly linked to pivotal roles. Complemented by a powerful score from renowned composers Ajay-Atul, VD14 stands as a major Pan-India spectacle on the 2026 Netflix roster. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   4. 418 – Charan Lakkaraju Expanding the slate's reach into the suspense and supernatural genre is 418, a high-concept thriller written and directed by Kirtan Nagagouda. The film centers on the chilling mystery of Room 418, anchored by an eerie tagline: Some warnings are not suggestions, and room 418 remembers. Featuring a fresh and talented cast including Charan Lakkaraju, Preethi, Chaitra Achar, and Shree Vaishnav, the movie promises to be a gripping edge-of-the-seat experience that blurs the lines between psychological thriller and horror. Recognizing the universal appeal of its premise, the makers have planned a massive Pan-India release across Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada. Netflix has officially secured the digital streaming rights, ensuring that this atmospheric mystery reaches a global audience shortly after its theatrical run. 5. Biker – Sharwanand Aiming to be India's first authentic motor racing film based on high-octane motocross, Biker is one of the most unique offerings on the Netflix 2026 slate. Directed by Abhilash Reddy Kankara and produced by UV Creations, the film features Sharwanand in a lean, rugged avatar following a significant physical transformation. To maintain racing authenticity, the actor underwent rigorous training on real motocross tracks in Chennai and Coimbatore. The narrative is an ambitious multi-generational sports drama unfolding across two timelines—the early 90s and the 2020s—covering three generations of characters. Adding immense emotional depth to the adrenaline-fueled action is senior actor Dr. Rajasekhar in a pivotal role as Sharwanand's father, alongside a supporting cast including Malavika Nair and Atul Kulkarni. With an intense score by the acclaimed Ghibran, Biker promises a high-speed cinematic experience that will be available on Netflix following its theatrical run. 6. Raakaasa –Sangeeth Shobhan Adding to the diversity of the 2026 slate is Raakaasa, a gripping thriller that headlines the talented Sangeeth Shobhan.The film is being marketed with the intense themes of atyasa (greed) and prateekaram (revenge), promising a dark and layered narrative. Written and directed by Manasa Sharma, who previously garnered acclaim for her work in the OTT space, the project also features writing credits for Mahesh Uppala, marking a reunion of the creative force behind hit digital content. The film boasts a versatile supporting cast including Nayan Sarika, Tanikella Bharani, Ashish Vidyarthi, and Vennela Kishore, with music composed by Anudeep Dev.As one of the key acquisitions for the year, Raakaasa highlights Netflix's commitment to high-quality, character-driven thrillers that push the boundaries of traditional Telugu storytelling. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   7. Production No. 37 – Harsh Roshan Continuing their successful association with Netflix, the prestigious Sithara Entertainments brings Production No. 37, a project that has already sparked curiosity with its eerie yet intriguing tagline: Some roommates don’t knock before entering. The film marks the return of director Kalyan Shankar, who previously delivered the youth-centric blockbuster MAD, suggesting a unique blend of humor and suspense. Starring a fresh and talented pairing of Anna Ben and Harsh Roshan, the movie is produced by Naga Vamsi Suryadevara and Sai Soujanya. As part of the Netflix Pandaga 2026 lineup, the streaming giant has secured the post-theatrical rights for a wide release in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada. With Kalyan Shankar at the helm and a high-profile production value, Production No. 37 is poised to be one of the most exciting genre-bending films of the year. 8. Funky – Vishwak Sen Funky brings together the Mass Ka Das Vishwak Sen and director Anudeep KV, known for the cult classic Jathi Ratnalu. Ensuring a brand of eccentric and witty humor, the film is described as a wacky satire on the film industry, featuring Vishwak Sen as a quirky filmmaker whose career hits a slump, only for his failures to ironically turn into his biggest successes. Kayadu Lohar makes her Telugu debut as the female lead in this project, which is produced by Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya under the prestigious Sitara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas. Initially planned for an earlier release, the film has shifted its theatrical window to February 13, 2026, positioning it as a major Valentine's Day attraction before its exclusive post-theatrical streaming debut on Netflix. 9. Don't Trouble the Trouble:Fahadh Faasil Don't Trouble the Trouble, a fantasy-tinged emotional drama that marks a significant collaboration between celebrated actor Fahadh Faasil and director Shashank Yeleti. Adding a monumental layer of prestige to the project, the film is presented by the legendary SS Rajamouli under the Arka Mediaworks banner. Described as an offbeat story with surreal twists, the narrative reportedly centers on a character named Suri who counts his fortune amidst sirens and screams,hinting at a unique and atmospheric cinematic journey. Following its highly anticipated theatrical run, the film is set for a massive global digital premiere on Netflix, where it will be available in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada. 10. Champion – Roshan Meka Set to be a powerful addition to the sports-drama genre, Champion is a period action film directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Pradeep Advaitham. Starring Roshan Meka and Anaswara Rajan, the movie follows the aspirational journey of a young football player from Secunderabad who dreams of playing in London. Beyond the sporting arena, the film carries immense historical weight, as the narrative is inspired by true incidents involving the Bairanpally village revolt against the Razakars during the Nizam's rule. Produced with a reported budget of ₹40 crore, Champion promises to blend intense patriotism with the grit of competitive athletics. As one of the earliest digital premieres of the year, the film is set to stream on Netflix starting January 23, 2026, and will be available to a wide audience in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   11. Aakasam Lo Oka Tara – Dulquer Salmaan Dulquer Salmaan, who has built a stellar reputation for choosing unique scripts in Telugu cinema, returns with a deeply inspiring narrative in Aakasam Lo Oka Tara. The film tells the poignant story of a village girl who aspires to go to space, exploring themes of resilience against social limitations with the evocative tagline: Some journeys to space begin on broken roads. While Dulquer leads the project, the film introduces Satvika Veeravalli in her acting debut as the female lead, with Shruti Haasan appearing in a prominent role. This ambitious project is bankrolled by a powerhouse collaboration of Vyjayanthi Movies, Geetha Arts, Swapna Cinemas, and Light Box, featuring a soulful musical score by G.V. Prakash Kumar. Aiming for a grand theatrical release in Summer 2026—with reports pointing toward a March 26 launch to coincide with Ram Navami—the film will subsequently be available for global streaming on Netflix in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi. 12. Paradise – Nani Reunited with Dasara director Srikanth Odela, Natural Star Nani is set to unleash what he describes as India's Mad Max with his upcoming rustic actioner, The Paradise. Set in the gritty, socially rooted backdrop of 1980s Secunderabad, the film chronicles a marginalized community’s fierce struggle for survival and dignity. The project features a powerhouse face-off, with the legendary Mohan Babu playing the primary antagonist, while popular actor Raghav Juyal makes his much-anticipated Telugu debut. Adding to the film’s high stakes is a thunderous musical score by Anirudh Ravichander, ensuring the technical values match the film’s wild intensity. With its theatrical release locked for March 26, 2026, the film has already established significant trade value, with Netflix reportedly acquiring the digital rights for a staggering ₹65 crore. 13. Ustaad Bhagat Singh – Pawan Kalyan Ustaad Bhagat Singh, starring Power Star Pawan Kalyan. In a major update that has excited fans, director Harish Shankar officially confirmed in December 2025 that the film is a fresh, original script specifically tailored for Pawan Kalyan, putting to rest earlier reports of it being a remake. Produced by Mythri Movie Makers on a grand scale with a budget of ₹150–170 crore, the film features the actor in a powerful role as a charismatic police officer, starring alongside Sreeleela and Raashii Khanna. Reflecting its massive anticipation, Netflix reportedly secured the digital rights in a substantial deal valued between ₹80–100 crore. Following its theatrical run, this mass spectacle will be available for global streaming in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada, ensuring a blockbuster digital debut for one of the year’s biggest theatrical releases.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Hyderabad, January 19 - It has been a tough week for Pan India superstar Prabhas-fronted The Raja Saab. The romantic horror comedy was expected to ignite the box office during the Sankranthi festive period, and it gave positive signs early on, but what followed was very disappointing. Directed by Maruthi, The Raja Saab took the opening of 100 crores worldwide, and at that time, it looked like it would be dominating the box office until poor audience reception came to bite it. After the big opening, the collection dropped drastically as the week progressed. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) There was a little hope that The Raja Saab might get something during the holidays, which didn't happen. While the film has managed to crawl past 200 crores worldwide in 10 days, the overall performance has been poor, with no signs of rebound. With the holiday period over, it will be really tough for Raja Saab to retain screens, especially given that other Sankranthi releases are performing very well in Telugu states. In 10 days so far, the film has grossed approximately 166.50 crores in India and 33.50 crores at the overseas box office. Considaring its daily trend, it would have been almost impossible for the film to even reach 200 crores gross had there been no holiday advantage. Because of the Sankranthi holidays, it has managed to cross Radhe Shyam and will end up as the second-lowest-grossing film for Prabhas since he scored a breakout Pan India success with Baahubali (2015). Stay tuned...

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Chennai, January 19 - Ajith Kumar's cult-classic action thriller Mankatha is gearing up for a grand return to theatres, reigniting excitement among fans and trade alike. Even years after its original release, the film continues to command immense popularity, with its re-release creating strong buzz in Tamil Nadu. The anticipation reflects the film’s lasting impact and Ajith's unmatched fan following, and the early advance bookings trends confirm the same. Scheduled to release on January 23, the pre-sales of the movie have started, with tickets getting sold within minutes. On BookMyShow, the film is selling 4K tickets per hour, which shows the craze for it among the fans. Originally released in 2011 and directed by Venkat Prabhu, Mankatha marked a defining moment in Ajith Kumar's career. His bold portrayal of the ruthless Vinayak Mahadev broke away from traditional heroic norms and struck a chord with audiences. Backed by Yuvan Shankar Raja's electrifying background score and a stylish, fast-paced narrative, the film emerged as a massive blockbuster and later achieved cult status. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The announcement of the re-release has triggered widespread celebration on social media, with fans revisiting iconic dialogues, scenes, and moments from the film. For many, Mankatha is not just a movie but an emotion, while for younger audiences, it presents a chance to experience the high-voltage heist drama on the big screen for the first time. With the trend of successful re-releases gaining momentum, Mankatha is expected to start strongly, and possibly on a record note, given the initial response in pre-sales. Its gripping screenplay, unexpected twists, and Ajith Kumar's commanding screen presence continue to feel fresh even today, positioning the film to once again set the box office on fire. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Clearing the air after weeks of intense speculation, director Anees Bazmee has officially declared the project open, confirming that he is indeed reuniting with superstar Akshay Kumar for a high-profile entertainer. While the film has been widely reported as a remake of the Telugu blockbuster Sankranthiki Vasthunam, Bazmee clarified that the team has focused on a re-imagined narrative tailored for the national audience. Speaking on the project's progress, the filmmaker expressed confidence, stating, All I can say is that hamari film acchi hai.Mehnat poori ki hai humne Anees Bazmee further provided the first official look at the film's powerhouse ensemble, confirming a mix of seasoned veterans and popular fresh talent. The director stated, The film stars Akshay ji, Vidya ji, Raashii Khanna, Vijay Raaz, Zakir Hussain, Sayaji Shinde and others. This announcement has sent waves of excitement through the industry, primarily because it marks the return of the legendary Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan pairing. The duo shares a prolific history at the box office, having previously delivered several major hits.After appearing together in Bhool Bhulaiyaa and Heyy Babyy in 2007, they reunited for Thank You in 2011 and most recently for the 2019 blockbuster Mission Mangal.Notably, Anees Bazmee himself previously directed the pair in the 2011 comedy Thank You, making this project a significant full-circle moment for the trio.Produced by Dil Raju under Sri Venkateswara Creations, the film is expected to begin its primary filming schedule immediately. The original Telugu film, which featured Venkatesh Daggubati and was directed by Anil Ravipudi, emerged as a massive success during the 2025 Sankranthi season. Known for its blend of high-stakes action and signature Ravipudi comedy, the film is considered a perfect fit for Akshay Kumar's versatile screen presence. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Akshay Kumar has a remarkably prolific slate lined up for 2026 and 2027, focusing heavily on successful franchises and high-energy entertainers. One of the biggest highlights is the superstar returning to his iconic comedy roots with Welcome To The Jungle and the long-awaited Hera Pheri 3, both of which are expected to be major crowd-pullers. Beyond franchises, Akshay is expanding his portfolio with diverse collaborations. He is teaming up with director Priyadarshan after a long hiatus for the horror-comedy Bhoot Bangla, aiming to recreate the magic of their previous hits.By balancing these large-scale original films with proven franchise sequels and successful South Indian remakes, Akshay Kumar is positioning himself for a massive theatrical comeback. With music director Bheems Cecirolio and producer Dil Raju backing his latest venture, the upcoming years are set to be a busy and decisive period for the star's box office trajectory. The move by Akshay Kumar to return to the remake genre follows a period of experimentation with original scripts. Trade analysts suggest that a commercial entertainer like Sankranthiki Vasthunam could provide the box office pull required for the star in the current theatrical climate. With Dil Raju's production expertise and Bheems Cecirolio's mass-oriented music, the project is already being positioned as a strong contender for a 2027 holiday release. As of now, an official announcement regarding the title and the rest of the ensemble cast for the Akshay Kumar starrer is expected from the makers in the coming weeks

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, January 19 — Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali's much-awaited magnum opus Love & War, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, has reportedly been pushed to 2027, dealing a fresh blow to fans eagerly waiting for the film's theatrical release. Initially announced with a Christmas 2025 release window, Love and War has seen multiple shifts in its timeline. The film was later expected to arrive in March 2026, with industry buzz even pointing towards a possible release in August or late 2026. However, the latest reports suggest that the ambitious project will now miss 2026 entirely. According to Pinkvilla, Love and War has faced extended shooting schedules and elaborate production requirements, which have significantly pushed back timelines. Known for his grand visuals, detailed set designs, and emotionally layered storytelling, Sanjay Leela Bhansali is reportedly taking extra time to perfect key sequences. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Reportedly, the film's shoot will be wrapped by June this year, following which an extensive post-production phase, including editing, background score, and visual enhancements, will take several more months. Given the scale of the film, the makers are in no hurry to rush the release. With post-production expected to stretch into late 2026, Love and War is now being eyed for a theatrical release in early 2027. While no official date has been locked yet, reports suggest that the makers may opt for a holiday window such as Republic Day or Valentine's Day to maximise box-office potential. Love and War marks Sanjay Leela Bhansali's reunion with Ranbir Kapoor after Saawariya, while also bringing together Ranbir, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal in a powerful, dramatic setting for the first time. The film is said to revolve around intense emotions, romance, and conflict, staying true to Bhansali's signature cinematic style. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The anticipation for Shah Rukh Khan's next big-screen venture has reached a fever pitch.In what is being reported as an exclusive scoop by Bollywood Hungama, the makers of the high-octane action thriller King have officially locked December 25, 2026, for its global theatrical release. This move confirms that King Khan will be reclaiming the lucrative Christmas window, a slot he has successfully dominated in the past. According to trade sources, the decision to opt for a Christmas release was highly strategic. The team was initially considering a December 4 window, but decided to skip it to avoid any proximity to Nitesh Tiwari's magnum opus, Ramayana.By locking December 25, the makers have ensured a 45-day gap between the release of Ramayana and King.This breathing space is intended to allow both tentpole films—one a divine epic and the other a modern action spectacle—the opportunity to maximize their box office potential without eating into each other's business.Director Siddharth Anand has been teasing this announcement on social media recently with cryptic posts, further fueling the Announcement on the way buzz. King is set to be a landmark film for several reasons, most notably because it marks the theatrical debut of Suhana Khan. She will be sharing the screen with her father, Shah Rukh Khan, in a full-fledged role. Reports suggest the film is inspired by the French classic Leon: The Professional, with SRK playing a sleek, deadly assassin and Suhana portraying his student. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The film features a stellar lineup, headlined by Shah Rukh Khan in the lead role, reportedly portraying a deadly assassin. Adding to the excitement is the theatrical debut of Suhana Khan, who joins her father on screen as his protege. The project also marks a major face-off as Abhishek Bachchan has been cast as the main antagonist, playing the formidable villain, while Abhay Verma is set to appear in a pivotal role. Beyond the primary cast, there is significant industry buzz regarding the broader ensemble; names like Deepika Padukone (rumored for a powerful cameo), Jaideep Ahlawat, and Arshad Warsi are heavily linked to the project, promising one of the most star-studded cinematic events in recent years. While Sujoy Ghosh was initially tied to the director's chair, the reigns have now been officially handed over to Siddharth Anand, who previously collaborated with SRK for the historic blockbuster Pathaan. Sujoy Ghosh remains an integral part of the project, credited with the story and screenplay alongside Siddharth Anand, Suresh Nair, and Sagar Pandya. The film is being produced on a massive scale under the banners of Red Chillies Entertainment and Marflix Pictures, with a reported budget of ₹350 crore. Adding to the technical brilliance is musical sensation Anirudh Ravichander, who will be composing the soundtrack and background score, marking his second collaboration with SRK after the record-breaking Jawan. With principal photography nearing its final stages and post-production planned on a global scale, King is shaping up to be the most anticipated cinematic event of 2026. Fans can expect an official release date announcement from the makers within the coming week.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, January 18 – Sunny Deol's much-awaited war drama Border 2 has started its booking on a positive note in India. While the film's pre-sales have opened in a limited capacity, early trends show a steady and encouraging response, with hourly ticket sales picking up on BookMyShow, signalling growing audience interest ahead of release. The full-fledged advance booking will officially kick off today, on January 19, across major cinema chains and single screens. With expanded show listings and wider ticket availability, the film is expected to see a significant surge in pre-release momentum over the next few days. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) According to reports, Border 2 will be released on over 5,000 screens across India, making it one of the widest Bollywood releases ever. Such an aggressive release strategy underlines the makers' confidence in the film's mass appeal, especially given its patriotic theme and sequel factor to the iconic 1997 blockbuster Border. With a Republic Day weekend advantage, positive early booking indicators, and a massive nationwide release plan, Border 2 is shaping up for a robust theatrical opening, with trade expecting strong walk-ins and solid occupancy levels once bookings fully open. Directed by Anurag Singh and produced by T-Series and JP Films, Border 2 also stars Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Mona Singh, Sonam Bajwa, Anya Singh, and Medha Rana in pivotal roles. The film is scheduled to hit the big screens on January 23 during Republic Day weekend. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The legendary Chiranjeevi continues his dominance at the box office with his latest release, Mana ShankaraVaraPrasad Garu . Directed by Anil Ravipudi, the film has completed its first week on a record-breaking note, showing immense stability across both domestic and international markets. As of the end of its seventh day, the film has grossed ₹222.5 crore worldwide. One of the most significant highlights of MSG's theatrical run is its day-wise consistency. In an era where even big-budget films often see a sharp decline after the opening weekend, MSG has managed to collect double-digit figures (in Telugu net) for seven consecutive days. After a massive opening of ₹32.25 crore on Day 1, the film stayed remarkably steady. Even on Day 7, it managed to collect an estimated ₹17.5 crore, showcasing the strong long-run potential usually associated with Anil Ravipudi's directorial ventures. Day-wise Telugu Net Breakdown: Day 0 (Previews): ₹9.35 Cr Day 1: ₹32.25 Cr Day 2: ₹18.75 Cr Day 3: ₹19.5 Cr Day 4: ₹22 Cr Day 5: ₹19.5 Cr Day 6: ₹18.9 Cr Day 7: ₹17.5 Cr* (Estimated) Total India Net: ₹157.75 Cr When compared to other recent blockbusters from Tier-1 heroes, MSG's hold is noteworthy. Typically, films of this scale see a 50-60% drop on Day 4 (Monday). However, MSG actually saw an upward trend on its fourth day (₹22 Cr), bolstered by positive word-of-mouth and the holiday season. In comparison to Chiranjeevi's previous collaboration with high-profile directors, such as Waltair Veerayya, MSG has shown a more consistent daily average in its first week. Furthermore, the film has officially surpassed the ticket sales of the highly anticipated They Call Him OG on BookMyShow, recording over 2.8 million tickets sold in its first seven days. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The film is not just a domestic success but a massive hit in the overseas market as well. With a total overseas collection of ₹35.25 crore (approx. $4.2M), MSG has become the highest-grossing film for Chiranjeevi in North America. It has officially surpassed the lifetime collections of Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy in the region and is currently on track to hit the prestigious $3 million milestone in the US alone. After completing its first seven days in theaters, Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu has delivered a powerhouse performance across all sectors. In the domestic market, the film has amassed a sturdy India Net collection of ₹157.75 crore, which translates to a massive India Gross of ₹187.25 crore. The film's international appeal has been equally strong, contributing an Overseas collection of ₹35.25 crore. Bringing these figures together, the film's Worldwide total stands at an impressive ₹222.5 crore, cementing its status as a certified blockbuster within its opening week. The film reached its break-even point in just 6 days, a rare feat for a big-budget star-led film. With a ₹300 crore worldwide gross now firmly on the cards, Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu is currently on an Industry Hit trajectory. The combination of Chiranjeevi's mass appeal and Anil Ravipudi's family-friendly narrative has proven to be a winning formula for the 2026 Sankranthi season.