Showing posts with label Pushpa 2 - The Rule. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pushpa 2 - The Rule. Show all posts
Dhurandhar The Revenge top grosser in West Bengal; 2nd highest hit in CP Berar after Pushpa 2 - The Rule
9:20 AM
Box Office India Trade Network
DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE has smashed the record for Hindi films across India by a huge margin of 30% but it has turned out to be no competition for PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE in CP Berar as the latter is around 27-28% better. DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE has done extraordinarily well in the circuit but the collections of PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE were something else due to the appreciation of PUSHPA: THE RISE - PART 01 in the centers of CP Berar.
There are other circuits where DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE is second best to PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE like Rajasthan, CI, Bihar and Odisha and also sub circuit Gujarat but the gaps are nothing like CP Berar. Even an Odisha, where the gap was most likely to be the highest, is only 15% less but it can be due to a Telugu version of PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE in play in the circuit. Both CP Berar and Odisha have a history of out performing for South films. Even that 80's phase where they were not South films but Hindi films made by South producers/directors tended to do better in these circuits.
DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE may not be the top grossing film in the circuits mentioned above but to be close to a PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE in the likes of Rajasthan, CI, Bihar and Gujarat is actually a huge achievement in itself as the former is not a mass film like the latter and that can be seen by the collections in the smaller centres of these circuits. It is the bigger centres of these circuits be it a Jaipur, Patna or Indore which have taken it close to the PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE collections. The biggest film in the circuit ever is SHOLAY (1975) like in most circuits while second place you would give to HUM AAPKE HAI KOUN (1994). This century, it would be GADAR (2001) followed by PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE.
The all time top ten grossers in CP Berar are as follows.
1. Pushpa 2 - The Rule - 56,07,00,000
2. Dhurandhar The Revenge - 44,09,00,000
3. Baahubali 2: The Conclusion - 34,84,00,000
4. Chhaava - 34,40,00,000
5. Dhurandhar - 33,79,00,000
6. Gadar 2 - 32,32,00,000
7. Stree 2 - 30,70,00,000
8. KGF - Chapter 2 - 28,03,50,000
9. Animal - 23,86,50,000
10. Jawan -22,14,00,000
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DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE has emerged the highest grossing film ever in West Bengal which did not look like happening on release. It was pretty much certain on day one that it would be the top film in North India, South India and probably Mumbai as well though Central and Eastern side would be tougher. It has not got to the top in any circuit in the Central circuits of Rajasthan, CP Berar and CI but has managed to be number one in West Bengal and Assam in the East.
The record in West Bengal was a big one as JAWAN had a big total which was 9 crore nett higher than anything else and West Bengal had been one of the weaker circuits for DHURANDHAR. Compared to JAWAN, it has underperformed in West Bengal but that is more to do with the Shah Rukh Khan factor who is by far the biggest star in the circuit. It can be seen below that it is JAWAN and PATHAAN that have out performed in this circuit. So, despite the star factor not being what it used to be, it still pays a part but its area by area an is not across the board.
There is also WAR but had advantage of Puja week and its possible that Hrithik Roshan is next most popular star here after Shah Rukh Khan. DHURANDHAR also has that Punjabi base which historically has never worked that well in West Bengal but the series overcame that too as well due to the content. DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE is practically at the end of its run and will finish at around 44.25 crore nett as its hardly playing in the circuit now.
The top ten grossers in West Bengal are as follows.
1. Dhurandhar The Revenge - 44,25,00,000 apprx (Ten Weeks)
2. Jawan - 43,68,50,000
3. Pushpa 2 - The Rule - 35,32,00,000
4. Pathaan - 34,95,00,000
5. Dhurandhar - 32,56,00,000
6. Stree 2 - 28,18,00,000
7. Baahubali 2: The Conclusion - 27,47,00,000
8. KGF - Chapter 2 - 24,77,50,000
9. War - 22,89,50,000
10. Animal - 19,69,00,000
Dhurandhar The Revenge fails to top Pushpa 2 - The Rule in 5 circuits; achieves record 4 cr footfalls
10:07 AM
Box Office India Trade Network
DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE has crossed the 1000 crore nett mark and is easily the biggest Hindi grosser ever but in certain markets it sill remains less than PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE despite the all India figure being far higher. DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE has failed to get the highest total in Rajasthan, CP Berar, CI, Bihar and Odisha all ending below PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE. Its a similar story in the state of Gujarat but that comes into Mumbai circuit and overall the collections of DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE are higher in the circuit by more than 10%.
A circuit where DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE did not look like being the biggest was West Bengal but with a prolonged run it has edged past the numbers of JAWAN which was the highest grossing film in this circuit. It was Assam and West Bengal which stopped PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE getting the highest totals in all circuits. For DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE, its the mass circuits which has stopped the film showing complete domination all over. In many of these mass circuits, the figures are higher than PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE in the bigger centers and major multiplexes but its the smaller centers and smaller cinemas be it independent plexes or single screens where it is less.
The last film to have the highest figure in all circuits was BAAHUBALI 2: THE CONCLUSION and before that it was HUM AAPKE HAIN KOUN and SHOLAY. Even GADAR - EK PREM KATHA did not manage as it could not beat HUM AAPKE HAIN KOUN in Maharashtra and parts of the Eastern circuit. It means only 3 films in the last 50 years have seen numbers which have been the highest across all circuits.
DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE has beaten the previous all India total by almost 30% but still some circuits remain less which shows how tough it is and how tastes differ in different circuits. In a circuit like CP Berar, the gap is pretty huge as PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE did 57 crore nett and DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE will do 45 crore nett. In Rajasthan, the gap is lesser with PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE on 47.50 crore and DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE on 46 crore nett.
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DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE is coming to an end of its run and will be finish with 4 crore footfalls apprx. The collections will end with 1005 crore nett and the ATP (Average Ticket Price) will be over INR 300 which has never been seen before. A few years ago BLOCKBUSTERS like PATHAAN, JAWAN and ANIMAL saw an ATP of around 220 and in just three years here is a film with a 35% higher Average Ticket Price.
PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE, released in 2024, had an ATP of 230 and although the multiplexes had comfortably far higher pricing than the likes of ANIMAL and JAWAN, it also had a lot appeal in mass centers which bought the overall ATP down as it should be 10-15% higher than the 2023 films but was only 5% higher. There is a difference of only 10 lakh footfalls between PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE and DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE. However, the box office collection is around 280 crore nett more. PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE had 3.90 crore footfalls.
This is the highest footfall for an original Hindi film since GADAR in 2001 which is a pretty long time to wait for a 4 crore footfall film. The way it was going in the initial few days it looked like even 4.5-5 crore was possible but the mass appeal was not quite there at that insane level. This is not to say the film did not have mass appeal but not to the level of 5 crore footfalls.
This 4 crore footfall mark did look like it would was an impossible task the way business was going post pandemic and more than that the way pricing was going but never say never. It can easily be said that 5 crore is a dream at present and you never know what happens with the right content. The pricing going up and up means footfalls do become tougher though it makes it easier for initial records when the urgency is there.
There may have been no 4 crore footfall film from the Hindi film industry between 2001 and 2026 but there were plenty before 2001 and it maybe around 25-30 films which got over 4 crore. But then, times were different and although there was a lesser population, the craze for films and stars was far higher.
Dhurandhar The Revenge first film to cross 10 million mark in Canada
2:21 PM
Box Office India Trade Network
DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE smashed all records in Canada as it has collected almost $10.8 million till date which is a record by a distance and the first $10 million Indian film in the country. The film beat the record of DHURANDHAR by over $3 million and ANIMAL, by $3.7 million which are second and third best.
The market has grown by leaps and bound post the pandemic and is the fastest growing market for Hindi films in Overseas. There was a time 8-10 years back when $2 million was a big mark in Canada and here you have a film crossing $10 million. The share of Canada from the US/Canada market is 31% for DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE. This is roughly the average today though if the film has less of a gentry audience, then Canada can go up as USA has a bigger market for gentry films.
DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE has not beaten the BAAHUBALI 2: THE CONCLUSION record in USA alone as that was $19.9 million and DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE will be $17.5 million. But BAAHUBALI 2: THE CONCLUSION was only $275k in Canada while DHURANDHAR's sequel will be $7.9 million (USD) giving it $25.4 million total as compared to $20.175 million of BAAHUBALI 2.
Below are the all time top grossers in Canada. All figures are in CAD $.
1. Dhurandhar The Revenge - $10,800,000
2. Dhurandhar - $7,700,000
3. Animal - $7,103,000
4. Pathaan - $6,054,000
5. Jawan - $5,278,000
6. Pushpa 2 - The Rule - $4,218,000
7. Stree 2 - $4,213,000
8. Jatt & Juliet 3 - $3,860,000
9. Kalki 2898 AD - $3,623,000
10. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani - $3,281,000
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 926
2:57 PM
DHURANDHAR THE REVENGE ALL SET TO REWRITE HISTORY
In our last edition, we reported how the advance booking of Dhurandhar The Revenge has been off to a flying start. The film’s paid previews will begin today, March 18, at 5:00 pm and the ticket sales are historic, to say the least.
Dhurandhar’s first part had a modest start at Rs. 24 crores. The demand is such that the paid preview of the sequel will be more than that of the first part’s first-day collection. Earlier, the hope was that Dhurandhar The Revenge will collect around Rs. 20 crores today. Then the estimate went up to Rs. 25 crores, followed by Rs. 30 crores. At present, the film is all set to collect around Rs. 35 crores.
Dhurandhar The Revenge has broken all records for paid previews. The earlier record holder was Stree 2, which earned Rs. 8.75 crores, followed by Chennai Express at Rs. 6.75 crores. Dhurandhar The Revenge will earn more than four times the paid preview collections of Stree 2.
Dhurandhar The Revenge will have a full-fledged release from tomorrow, March 19, and the ticket sales for the release day are also huge. The record for the highest day one is held by Pushpa 2 - The Rule at Rs. 65 crores, followed by Jawan at Rs. 63.87 crores. Dhurandhar The Revenge is expected to beat these numbers, that too, after collecting nearly Rs. 35 crores in the paid previews. The day 1 collection should be in the range of Rs. 65 and 75 crores. Hence, in 1 ½ days, Dhurandhar The Revenge will cross the Rs. 100 crore mark.
Its next target will be to beat the fourth day (Sunday) collection of Pushpa 2 - The Rule. That film’s collection of Rs. 76 crores is the highest that the film has collected in a day. The hope is that on Saturday and Sunday, Dhurandhar’s sequel will be able to beat this number.
Eid will be celebrated on Friday, March 20 or Saturday, March 21. Hence, Wednesday and Thursday and maybe Friday will be pre-Eid days, when collections ideally should not be as big. Yet, the film is raking up such collections and this speaks volumes about the film’s tremendous craze.
Dhurandhar’s first part is the highest grosser of all time, collecting close to Rs. 790 crores in its lifetime. Dhurandhar The Revenge is sure to beat the number. It is expected to cross the Rs. 250 crores in its extended weekend. The open run until April 10 will also prove handy.
In our last edition, we reported how the advance booking of Dhurandhar The Revenge has been off to a flying start. The film’s paid previews will begin today, March 18, at 5:00 pm and the ticket sales are historic, to say the least.
Dhurandhar’s first part had a modest start at Rs. 24 crores. The demand is such that the paid preview of the sequel will be more than that of the first part’s first-day collection. Earlier, the hope was that Dhurandhar The Revenge will collect around Rs. 20 crores today. Then the estimate went up to Rs. 25 crores, followed by Rs. 30 crores. At present, the film is all set to collect around Rs. 35 crores.
Dhurandhar The Revenge has broken all records for paid previews. The earlier record holder was Stree 2, which earned Rs. 8.75 crores, followed by Chennai Express at Rs. 6.75 crores. Dhurandhar The Revenge will earn more than four times the paid preview collections of Stree 2.
Dhurandhar The Revenge will have a full-fledged release from tomorrow, March 19, and the ticket sales for the release day are also huge. The record for the highest day one is held by Pushpa 2 - The Rule at Rs. 65 crores, followed by Jawan at Rs. 63.87 crores. Dhurandhar The Revenge is expected to beat these numbers, that too, after collecting nearly Rs. 35 crores in the paid previews. The day 1 collection should be in the range of Rs. 65 and 75 crores. Hence, in 1 ½ days, Dhurandhar The Revenge will cross the Rs. 100 crore mark.
Its next target will be to beat the fourth day (Sunday) collection of Pushpa 2 - The Rule. That film’s collection of Rs. 76 crores is the highest that the film has collected in a day. The hope is that on Saturday and Sunday, Dhurandhar’s sequel will be able to beat this number.
Eid will be celebrated on Friday, March 20 or Saturday, March 21. Hence, Wednesday and Thursday and maybe Friday will be pre-Eid days, when collections ideally should not be as big. Yet, the film is raking up such collections and this speaks volumes about the film’s tremendous craze.
Dhurandhar’s first part is the highest grosser of all time, collecting close to Rs. 790 crores in its lifetime. Dhurandhar The Revenge is sure to beat the number. It is expected to cross the Rs. 250 crores in its extended weekend. The open run until April 10 will also prove handy.
Kantara: A Legend Chapter – 1 is sixth highest South dubbed film in Week 2
3:22 PM
Box Office India Trade Network
KANTARA: A LEGEND – CHAPTER 1 had the sixth highest collection ever in the second week for a dubbed or bilingual film from the South. The list basically incorporates most of the biggest films from down the South because if a South film is collecting well in week two in Hindi, its almost certain the film is a grosser. Hindi is basically the ultimate frontier and the toughest hurdle for the South films.
The film is dominated by sequels and that is why films like RRR and KALKI 2898 AD deserve a special mention as they have done without the craze of a previous films. However, RRR was an exception; it had the advantage since it came from the makers of BAAHUBALI. It was a rare instance in Hindi cinema that the maker carried the film as its normally all about the stars as far as the bigger numbers go.
The list is dominated by Prabhas films who has four films in the list and even a film like SAAHO manages to get into the top ten. This guy is probably the only star till date who has made that breakout into Hindi cinema. The other one who was close was Rajinikanth and it remains to be seen what happens with the hero of PUSHPA, Allu Arjun.
This breakout of Prabhas makes a regional actor the biggest star in the country which is shocking and this was not even thinkable earlier and a its a lot down that the stars of Hindi cinema either doing bad films and others seeing lack of support in core Hindi circuits. It remains to be seen how long this remains as Prabhas will have a lot of Telugu content to satisfy his local crowd and this will not always penetrate into Hindi. If the film is too Telugu, it could even struggle for initials. Obviously, SPIRIT is there and when the biggest star and biggest director (arguable but as far as Hindi content goes, Sandeep Reddy Vanga stands alone at present) get together, then fireworks will be expected.
The top ten second weeks for dubbed/bilingual films are as follows.
1. Pushpa 2 - The Rule - 1,78,31,00,000
2. Baahubali 2: The Conclusion - 1,42,52,00,000
3. KGF - Chapter 2 - 79,57,00,000
4. RRR - 75,34,00,000
5. Kalki 2898 AD - 70,71,00,000
6. Kantara: A Legend Chapter – 1 - 50,75,00,000 apprx
7. 2.0 - 36,81,00,000
8. Baahubali: The Beginning - 25,26,00,000
9. Saaho - 24,04,00,000
10. Pushpa: The Rise - Part 01 - 20,02,00,000
Bihar emerges the best performing circuit for Saiyaara; beats Baahubali 2, Animal
8:47 AM
Box Office India Trade Network
SAIYAARA is coming to the end of its run and surprisingly BIHAR has emerged the best circuit for the film as it does business of over 16 crore nett which is more than ANIMAL. The film is the seventh highest grossing film ever in the circuit with only two non action films in the list being STREE 2 and SAIYAARA.
Bihar is a circuit still dominated by single screens and that is why generally action films score here big time. Also, historically action films have fared best though musicals can also score in the circuit and this was seen in the 90's with a lot of films with the music of Nadeem Sharvan out performing here even though other circuits may not have done well. PUSHPA 2 - THE RULE is on top by a distance with 30 crore nett plus business while GADAR 2 and STREE 2 are the only other films to cross 20 crore nett. SHOLAY (1975) and KRANTI (1981) are probably the biggest films of all time in the circuit.
The performance of SAIYAARA will have a lot to do with the music as well but when a film like this becomes a huge blockbuster, you could not even dream that Bihar would be the best performing circuit. The circuit has done around 5% of the all India business but the potential is much more as it used to be a 10% circuit when all was equal. The major downfall started as tickets pricing moved higher in the late 90's and higher pricing was not viable in most of the centres in Bihar. Still, this is better than the 2-3% that the circuit went to in the 2005-2010 period though there is much more potential as most of the centres do not have multiplexes.
The top ten films in Bihar is as follows.
1. Pushpa 2 - The Rule - 32,60,50,000
2. Gadar 2 - 23,23,00,000
3. Stree 2 - 22,37,00,000
4. Jawan - 18,56,00,000
5. KGF - Chapter 2 - 18,35,00,000
6. Pathaan - 18,09,50,000
7. Saiyaara - 16,30,00,000
8. Baahubali 2: The Conclusion - 15,00,50,000
9. Animal - 14,94,50,000
10. Tiger Zinda Hai - 12,27,25,000
Pushpa 2's aggressive pricing strategy risks alienating key demographics, says trade
11:06 AM
With Pushpa 2’s tickets priced as high as Rs 2,400, trade analysts say the film risks losing a section of the audience; point out the low advance booking in multiplexes
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; December 3, 2024)
How much would you spend to watch Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2: The Rule? The makers and exhibitors seem confident of the fans’ love for the sequel, which would explain the exorbitant ticket prices of the December 5 release. In some premium theatres in Mumbai and Delhi, the prices range from Rs 1,800 to Rs 2,400. In other multiplexes, they have been reportedly hiked up by 10-15 per cent. This aggressive pricing strategy has ignited a discussion within the trade circles.
A section believes that the steep charges are a means to maximize the opening collection of Sukumar’s directorial venture, which is said to be mounted on a Rs 500 crore budget. But critics argue that it could alienate audiences. “Films like Pushpa 2 are meant to unite audiences across socio-economic strata, but pricing this high risks alienating key demographics,” says Gurmeet Singh Seble, who runs cinemas in Delhi.
He adds, “In single screens in Delhi, the film is priced between Rs 235 and Rs 250, and all eight shows are full. In contrast, PVR Plaza has been able to sell only 10 per cent of tickets. Some multiplexes are keeping it as high as Rs 2,500! PVR will kill the movie business like this. Rates need to be corrected,” he rues, adding that the inflated prices were needless for the franchise that has such a wide fan base.
With the ticket prices surging in the south and the Telangana government approving extra shows at higher costs, fans—who were eager to see the next chapter of the Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna and Fahadh Faasil-starrer—have expressed their displeasure online. Trade expert Ramesh Bala says it’s a gamble on part of the makers.
“The ticket prices are high in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. It’s a risk because people should like it in one viewing, or it could be a deterrent. Most people will watch it on the first day because of the hype. This is cashing in on people’s expectations. If the word of mouth is good, then [exhibitors] will continue with these prices,” he states.
Opening day box office collections for Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2 likely to beat Shah Rukh Khan's Jawan
8:43 AM
As advance booking of Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2: The Rule opens today, trade says its first-day figures across languages could rival that of 2023 blockbuster Jawan
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 30, 2024)
In Pushpa 2 - The Rule’s trailer, Allu Arjun’s character threatens that he is a “wildfire.” The words may turn out to be prophetic as the advance booking of the Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna-starrer opens today. The trade is expecting the pan-India film to take the box office by storm. Early buzz suggests that the first-day collections of Sukumar’s directorial venture, across languages, might rival that of Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan (2023), which had reportedly opened at about Rs 75 crore.
Trade analyst Girish Wankhede told mid-day, “About 25 to 30 per cent of the opening weekend numbers can come from advance booking itself. That said, this film will have a lot of walk-ins; people will come in groups for it. After all, it’s a humongous film. It will open as big as Jawan, if not bigger.”
Originally slated for an Independence Day release, Pushpa 2’s date with cinemas was then pushed to December 5. Wankhede believes the deferral only added to the action drama’s hype. While the Telugu version is expected to run riot in the south market, the trade analyst notes that the Hindi counterpart’s figures will be impressive.
He reasons, “Pushpa is a brand that has been cultivated over the past few years. There has been no big Hindi film all month. It’s the most anticipated film of recent times and a much stronger brand than Stree.”
Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna film new Pushpa 2 song 8 days before release
8:33 AM
With eight days to go for Pushpa 2’s release, Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna wrapped up the film yesterday; makers race against time to meet the deadline
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; November 27, 2024)
The countdown has begun as Pushpa 2 - The Rule is only eight days away from release. Usually in the last fortnight, the actors are busy city-hopping and promoting their upcoming film. But things are a little different with Allu Arjun’s mega release. Until yesterday, the superstar was busy shooting the action drama. mid-day has learnt that Arjun and leading lady Rashmika Mandanna filmed a romantic song in Hyderabad between November 23 and 26, following which director Sukumar called it a wrap on the movie.
That’s cutting it quite close. Sukumar’s ambitious sequel had begun with a test shoot in October 2022 and was originally slated to be an Independence Day 2024 offering. However, the makers later pushed its release to December 5. Now, it turns out days after launching Pushpa 2’s trailer in Patna on November 17, the leads rushed back to the set.
A source reveals, “After promoting their song Kissik in Chennai, Rashmika and Allu flew off to Hyderabad on November 21 to shoot the last romantic song. It has been composed by Devi Sri Prasad, and choreographed by Sekhar Vulli VJ and Ganesh Acharya. Filming began on November 23 with Allu sporting his flamboyant look and Rashmika dressed in a saree. After three days of shoot, the project was finally wrapped up on November 26.”
What made the makers keep the song for the last minute? The leading man’s busy date diary, we’re told. The insider explains, “The film’s principal photography was completed in late August. As per initial plans, this number was to be shot in early September. But Allu Arjun had to trim his beard and report to another movie’s shoot. As a result, the song kept getting pushed. Finally, this month, he grew his beard in keeping with his look in Pushpa 2 and faced the camera.”
There has been talk that Pushpa 2—also starring Fahadh Faasil—may not be able to meet its December 5 release considering the post-production is still on. But the source insists that the team is racing towards the goalpost. “Sukumar was working on the post-production simultaneously,” adds the source.
Pushpa 2, Baby John and Mufasa: The Lion King could generate Rs. 1,500 cr at box office
11:20 PM
Pushpa 2, Baby John and Mufasa: The Lion King could generate close to Rs. 1,500 crore at the box office, say analysts
Rajesh N Naidu (THE ECONOMIC TIMES; November 28, 2024)
The Hindi film trade is betting on three highly anticipated releases to end 2024 with a big bang after what’s been a lacklustre year. Tellingly, only one of these is a bonafide Bollywood movie--Baby John, starring Varun Dhawan. The other two are Hindi dubs--Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2 - The Rule (a Telugu original) and Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King, with the titular character voiced by Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan.
With the trade talking up their chances, analysts estimate these three movies have the potential to collect close to Rs1,500 crore at the box office, with Pushpa 2 accounting for as much as two-thirds of this. The film will be released on December 5, Mufasa on December 20 and Baby John on December 25.
“Pushpa 2 is the most anticipated film of the year,” said Gautam Dutta, CEO, revenue and operations, PVR INOX. “With its massive fan base eagerly waiting, the film is projected to be the highest grosser of the year. We are expecting house-full shows in cinemas across India.”
One of reasons for the optimism about December being a bumper movie month is the diversity of genres on offer. “December has always been huge for the Hindi film industry but this year is an exception,” said Girish Wankhede, an independent movie trade analyst. “Audiences have access to a diverse palette of genres: masala entertainer (Pushpa 2), action (Baby John) and a great franchise which has a strong recall or nostalgic value (Mufasa).
Besides this, these films are being promoted sufficiently well.” What will also work in favour of Pushpa 2 is the eagerness to discover what happens to the characters and plot threads introduced in the first instalment, Pushpa: The Rise (2021). The sequel could drum up Rs1,000 crore business on the opening weekend itself, according to trade estimates, given the fan frenzy over the Hindi version, the trailer of which has got higher views than the original in Telugu.
According to YouTube data, the Hindi trailer has got 72 million views, ahead of the Telugu version’s 62 million. A publicity event at Gandhi Maidan in Patna in Bihar attracted close to 200,000 people, indicating how deeply the film has penetrated the Hindi hinterland.
“There is tremendous craze around Pushpa 2,” said film distributor and trade analyst Shaaminder Malik. “The film makers have left no stone unturned in marketing and promoting the film. This has added to the curiosity.” He also pegs collections at Rs1,000 crore given the pan-India following.
Baby John, which presents actor Varun Dhawan in a mass action entertainer for the first time, could drum up business of Rs. 100-200 crore at the box office, Malik said.
The festive Christmas mood may prove advantageous for Baby John as well as the Disney release, with audiences equally excited about the Mufasa, especially with SRK’s voice.
"The origin story of Mufasa and Taka has generated huge interest among parents to showcase it to their children. We have received requests for group bookings from parents,” said Rahul Dhyani, founder of Connplex Cinemas, a miniplex (75-seat theatre) chain with halls in Bihar, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Many of these parents would have watched the original, animated movie The Lion King, back when it was released in 1994, its massive success spawning various spinoffs over the years. The film itself was remade in photorealistic animation in 2019.
“The film has a certain degree of familiarity among younger audiences,” Dhyani said. “Besides this, the franchise has a fairly loyal following among audiences who love animated movies. The voiceover of the film's Hindi version is done by actor Shah Rukh Khan, adding further excitement.” Mufasa could collect Rs. 100-200 crore all over India, he said. On the whole, he said these three films could collect close to Rs. 1,500 crore in December itself.
Apart from Hindi, Mufasa will also be dubbed in Tamil and Telugu, also by superstars--Arjun Das and Mahesh Babu, respectively.
Historically, December has been a key month for box office collections. The month has, in the past few years, seen big local and Hollywood releases such as Animal (2023), Godzilla Minus One (2023), Avatar: The Way of Water (2022), Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) and Dabangg 3 (2019), all among the top 10 grossers in their years.
Release of Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava postponed to avoid clash with Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2
2:39 PM
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; November 6, 2024)
Come December 6, cinegoers would have found themselves contemplating which of the two big-budget offerings—Chhaava and Pushpa 2 - The Rule —was worthy of their attention. However, two days after the makers of Pushpa 2 confirmed that the film will release on December 5, mid-day has learned that the team behind Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava has decided to pick another date.
“Chhaava is an ambitious project for the stakeholders, production house, director Laxman Utekar, and its lead star, Vicky. It makes sense to release it when no other film is scheduled to air,” says a source.
Another insider shares that the historical drama that features Kaushal as Chhatrapati Shivaji’s son Sambhaji Maharaj is likely to get advanced. Taran Adarsh says that while an official confirmation from the team of Chhaava is awaited, he hails the decision.
“Pushpa has potential to perform well in [all] languages. Chhaava is an ambitious project. A lot of money has gone into making both films. A clash could affect business.”
Considering the popularity of Pushpa 2, Rajasthan-based exhibitor Raj Bansal says it would have been “catastrophic” had Chhaava released on the same day. “When two films hit screens simultaneously, each earns at least 20 per cent less than it would have otherwise.”
Interestingly, Rashmika Mandanna, who stars in Pushpa 2, the sequel to director Sukumar’s 2021 pan-India blockbuster, also features in Kaushal’s film.
Pushpa 2 designer Sheetal Sharma decodes Allu Arjun’s look: "We created shirt with a bloodstained handprint"
9:20 AM
Pushpa 2 designer decodes Arjun’s look; says flamboyant clothes reflect character’s rise as international smuggler, jungle prints are a nod to his past
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; August 2, 2024)
Fiery, ruthless, ambitious— Allu Arjun’s character Pushpa Raj is anything but understated. His outfits in Pushpa: The Rise (2021) depicted that. Now, as the team is shooting the last leg of Pushpa 2: The Rule in Hyderabad, costume designer Sheetal Sharma says that he has created a distinct look for Arjun. Director Sukumar’s brief for the leading man’s avatar was simple: since the character has gone from a local sandalwood smuggler to an international force, his appearance should reflect the transition.
“I didn’t design costumes for Pushpa: The Rise. In the sequel, while his look remains rustic, Pushpa has become richer and more powerful as his smuggling has gone beyond India to Indonesia and Japan. So, his look now is more flamboyant, colourful and over-the-top. His wardrobe has become more expensive, but in a showy manner,” explains the designer.
While the sequel went on floors in October 2022, the costume department began its work in August that year. Right at the beginning, Sukumar made it known that the costumes had to reflect tidbits of the character’s journey in the first instalment.
“In Pushpa, we showed him patting his back with bloodied hands. From that, we got the idea to make a shirt [with a bloodstained handprint] for Pushpa 2. His shades have the axe motif, while his belt has a buckle with a rotating axe. His boots are made of fake snakeskin, as Allu Arjun is conscious about not using leather or animal-based products. His shirts have prints of wild animals and jungles to reflect that the protagonist comes from the forest.”
From the film’s first poster that was released in 2023, it was obvious that the makers didn’t believe in half-measures. It had Arjun sporting a look that borrowed heavily from avatars of Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali.
Sharma decodes it, stating, “From the colours [used] to his accessories, it was a look inspired by Kali-meets-Shiva. There is a Goddess called Gangamma, who is believed to have emerged from Shiva’s tandav. We drew inspiration from that.”
Also starring Fahadh Faasil and Rashmika Mandanna, the sequel is slated to release in December 2024. But before that, don’t be surprised if the makers roll out a special merchandise line. “Sukumar was clear that everything should be custom-made. The makers are planning to come up with a Pushpa clothing line, but it’s still in the discussion stage.”
How postponing a film's release date can affect finances and a lot more
8:43 AM
Along with finances and dealing with disappointment from fans, pushing a film’s release date at the last minute can create issues for all involved
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 9, 2024)
Just three days before its release, actor Ajay Devgn’s Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha was pushed to a later date. As rumours go, the makers decided to move it due to the release of Kalki 2898 AD. This isn’t the first time that such a decision was taken and experts weigh in on the repercussions.
Marketing a film can make or break a film and Varun Gupta, head of Max Marketing, who also handled Kalki 2898 AD, which had a date change, says, “I remember with Jersey (2022), the makers realized they will clash with KGF - Chapter 2 (2022), which had a lot of advance booking. I think the same happened with Auron Mein... They didn’t think Kalki 2898 AD would have such a craze in the North. For Adipurush (2023), there was overestimation and no films were released two weeks hence.”
Further, Gupta adds, “With Pushpa 2 - The Rule, two songs are out, but they are lyrical, and the teaser doesn’t tell the story, either. The problem occurs when the makers’ don’t have new assets to create a buzz during the new date.”
Best to AVOID a CLASH
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh is all praise for Auron Mein... makers for opting out of the clash and says, “Postponing a film impacts the finance as interest mounts. It would’ve been immature to be stuck on, ‘Hum toh issi date pe aayenge’, knowing Kalki 2898 AD was a storm.”
When a big-budget film is postponed, it messes with the entire year’s release calendar. Amit Sharma, Managing Director of Miraj Cinemas, tells us, “Pushpa 2 - The Rule was slated for August 15, but the date change turned the entire calendar upside down. Release of small and mid-budget films are majorly affected as they look for the right time to come out to grab more eyeballs.”
Factors are A-plenty
There are several factors that play a part in creating buzz around a film — media interviews, social media collaborations and on-ground promotions, where actors visit colleges, shopping malls, restaurants, etc, around the country — that are slated in advance. Danny Singh handles film promotions in North India and calls this a “big issue”.
“If a film gets pushed by 15 days to two months, it’s tough to reorganize interviews. It’s not producers, but people like me who are affected when events are cancelled. They don’t spend on actors’ trips to different cities; Hotels, colleges, malls, etc, pump in money in return for the actors’ visit.”
In the past, Singh has faced legal entanglements when actors have postponed or cancelled an event. He rues, “Colleges and event sponsors have sued us for the same. Stars also cancel at the last minute and the production house simply says, ‘Artist ka mood nahi hai’.”
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In India, as a programmer, there are atleast 40 movie titles that we handle a week. It made sense to push Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, with Kalki 2898AD already doing well. It is a logistical issue.
- Devang Sampat, Managing Director, Cinepolis India
Singham Again, Pushpa 2, Stree 2: Trade experts, filmmakers talk about the phenomenon of sequels, franchises
3:57 PM
Allu Arjun returns as Pushpa in the eponymous franchise and Deepika Padukone smoulders for the first time as a cop in a new Singham film, among a flurry of franchise revivals and sequels in the works this year. We dive deep into the phenomenon
Mugdha Kapoor (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 1, 2024)
In recent years, particularly after the pandemic, a noticeable trend has emerged in films: the rise of sequels. In 2022 and 2023, several sequels achieved remarkable success. KGF: Chapter 2, the follow-up to the 2018 hit KGF: Chapter 1, became a pan-India sensation, breaking records and grossing over Rs. 1,200 crore worldwide. Similarly, Drishyam 2, a sequel to the 2015 thriller Drishyam, amassed both critical acclaim and strong box-office returns. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, a spiritual sequel to the 2007 horror-comedy, and Gadar 2, which hit theatres 22 years after the first part, also did well.
According to Ormax Media data, franchise films accounted for 17% of the Indian box office in 2019, but by 2023, this figure had risen to 45%. “The most anticipated Hindi films among regular theatregoers in India include Stree 2, Pushpa 2 - The Rule, Hera Pheri 3, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, War 2 and Singham Again,” Sanket Kulkarni, head of business development (theatrical), Ormax Media, tells us, adding that the trend also applies to Tamil and Telugu films.
The comfort of familiarity
“Sequels, by their very nature, bring with them a sense of continuity and established connection with characters,” says director Amar Kaushik, who is gearing up for the release of Stree 2. Elaborating, Kaushik says, “When a sequel is announced, viewers feel connected to the franchise because they have already loved the first part. The audiences think of such films as their own. Log expect karte hain sequel se, ki jitna maza unhein first part dekh kar aaya tha, next part bhi utna hi interesting bana hoga aur paise vasool honge.”
Seeing characters that they have loved, and looking forward to new journeys for them, makes it compelling for audiences, notes Gadar 2 director Anil Sharma. “So, the allure lies in revisiting familiar worlds and characters they’ve grown to love,” says Sharma, adding that that’s exactly why “characters and film ka essence same hona chahiye, jo pehle part mein tha, bas”.
Financial incentives and marketability
The financial aspect of making sequels is a significant driving force behind the proliferation. “When a sequel is made, financing and selling become much easier. Studios and investors are more willing to back a project with a proven track record, just as audiences are more inclined to watch a continuation of a beloved story. These factors make sequels an attractive proposition for everyone involved,” says Sharma.
Film exhibitor Akshaye Rathi opines, “[For industry stakeholders, too], sequels are a sure shot recipe for success as filmmakers build on the popularity of a movie that’s already touched the hearts of the people.”
Sequels v/s stand-alone films
Are sequels in abundance because of a lack of original scripts and the failure of stand-alone, big-ticket films to draw audiences? “There’s no dearth of original scripts. Films such as Pathaan (2023) and Jawaan (2023) have done extremely well,” says trade analyst Taran Adarsh, adding, “Even biopics like Srikanth, which is also an original script, have done well.” Meanwhile, concurring, film exhibitor Akshaye Rathi notes that films across genres — from Laapataa Ladies (2023) and Animal (2023) to the recent Munjya — are working well at the box office.
Look forward to:
The lineup of upcoming films is dominated by sequels — Stree 2, Singham Again and Raid 2 — demonstrating that sequels are a mainstay in the cinematic landscape.
Stree 2
Pushpa 2 - The Rule
Singham Again
Raid 2
War 2
Indian 2
Welcome To The Jungle
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2
Border 2
Hera Pheri 3
Kantara A Legend: Chapter 1
Bhediya 2
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There’s no set formula for a sequel. The first thing is to see if you have a story left [from the first part]. There should be honesty. I took 5-6 years to come up with a sequel [to Stree] because I think not just the audience, but even I, should feel excited about the story and the graph of the characters. I believe that all filmmakers who are making a sequel should maintain the essence of the first film and its characters.
-Amar Kaushik director (Stree and Bhediya)
The second half of the year looks far more promising-Exhibitors
2:29 PM
Vinay MR Mishra (BOMBAY TIMES; June 29, 2024)
In the first half of 2024 Bollywood saw a lull at the box office. There weren’t too many big-ticket films released, and those that did, performed below expectation. Fighter, Shaitaan, and Crew brought in some moolah, and some medium-budget (Srikantj, Munjya, Article 370, Madgaon Express) films clocked in good numbers, but overall, the numbers didn’t give the industry a reason to celebrate. As we look ahead at the second half of the year, BT talked to industry experts to understand their expectations and hopes from the upcoming lineup of theatrical releases and why exhibitors are relying on Telugu films to bring in phenomenal numbers.
‘Positive about business in the next six months’
Industry experts seem quite optimistic about the second half of the year. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh says, “We are optimistic. Hopefully we will recover lots more.”
Amit Sharma, MD, Miraj Entertainment Limited, chimes in, “The past six months have been really dull for Bollywood, however, the calendar for the upcoming months look exciting. We have a medium budget get film coming in every month, along with big budget films. And to have that mixed slate is important. The next six months are going to be really crowded at the box office. I am positive about the business. The next six months we will repeat the numbers that we did last year.”
‘The big-ticket entertainers are the true-blue theatrical watches’
Film exhibitor Akshaye Rathi stresses on the importance of tentpole movies. He explains, “The second half of the year looks a far more promising because you have a much higher number of big-ticket releases. We have pan-India movies ranging from Kalki 2898 AD and Pushpa 2 - The Rule to big Tamil movies like Indian 2 and then of course, there is Singham Again, which is one of the biggest franchises. These big-ticket entertainers are the true-blue theatrical watches. Hopefully, these films will create an impact and get revenues for multiplexes, single screens - tier one, tier two, tier three - everywhere across the board.”
Exhibitors depending on pan-India films to rake in huge numbers
Devara, Kalki 2898 AD, Pushpa and Game Changer are few of the pan-Indian movies that the trade experts are pinning their hopes on. Moreover, Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Executive Director, PVR INOX Ltd, mentions that Hollywood movies such as Deadpool & Wolverine, Joker, and Venom 2, might be saviours in the second half of 2024.
Anand Pandit says, “Indian makers are no longer making films for a single demographic.” He also said, “Every year, we may not be able to deliver back-to-back blockbusters but as long as we remain creative, inspired and optimistic, we will always see more success than failure.”
Akshaye Rathi elaborates, “It is not that we don’t have confidence in Hindi films, but there aren’t as many big-ticket Hindi films coming out this year. It is a year run by Ajay Devgn and Akshay Kumar on Hindi front. There is no Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Ranbir Kapoor or Ranveer Singh film releasing. Hence, this dependence on the Telugu movies is huge.”
Films expected to be money spinners from July-Dec 2024
1. Kalki 2898 AD
2. Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha
3. Sarfira
4. Stree 2
5. Singham Again
6. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3
7. Chhaava
8. Welcome to the Jungle
9. Sitaare Zameen Par
10. Baby John
11. Devara
12. Game Changer
13.Kanguva
14. Indian 2
15. Pushpa 2
Triptii Dimri pips Janhvi Kapoor to bag Pushpa 2’s special dance number
8:19 AM
Sources say Animal star Dimri has pipped Janhvi to bag Pushpa 2 - The Rule’s special dance number along the lines of Oo antava
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 29, 2024)
Undeniably, the most catchy song of 2021 was Oo Antava from Pushpa: The Rise - Part 01, thanks to Devi Sri Prasad’s composition and Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s sensuous moves. Last week, the makers of Pushpa 2 - The Rule had a discussion about who should be roped in to front a similarly styled dance number. We’ve heard that Janhvi Kapoor and Triptii Dimri were the contenders, and after much deliberation, director Sukumar and the makers zeroed in on Dimri.
Two reasons apparently drove the decision. A source reveals, “The song has to be shot immediately. So, the actor in question would have to report to Hyderabad soon for a seven-day shoot. Since Janhvi is busy with Mr & Mrs Mahi’s promotions and will do a week of post-release promotions, Triptii seemed the practical choice. Her surge in popularity after Animal’s [2023] success was another reason.”
Ganesh Acharya is choreographing the piece. “Triptii will have two days to prep before the shoot kicks off this weekend,” adds the source. Allu Arjun’s August release has created much anticipation among the audience. Yesterday, the makers teased a new number, titled The Couple Song.
I am blessed in that I am not consumed by pressure, says Devi Sri Prasad on Pushpa 2's music
8:06 AM
Ahead of the release of Pushpa 2: The Rule, Devi Sri Prasad asserts that there is divine intervention when he sits down to create new music
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; April 29, 2024)
It may have been three years since the release of Pushpa: The Rise - Part 01, however, tracks like Srivali, and Saami saami are still fresh in people’s minds. Devi Sri Prasad, the composer who arguably put the spotlight on south Indian music with Oo Antava, acknowledges the popularity of the score of part one, but says he doesn’t carry the weight of his success as he gears up to present his setlist for Pushpa 2 - The Rule. In this interview, he discusses creating the music for the film’s upcoming edition, which is set to be presented in six languages.
Edited excerpts of the interview.
Was your approach towards this film different given that the music of the last edition gained so much attention?
I find that I am blessed in that I am not consumed by pressure. When you work without being stressed, you can deliver your best work. I treat each movie as a separate entity, because to cater to any film’s needs, you need to have a clear mind. I feel like an instrument of music rather than a composer of music. When I am inspired by a narration, I think of all the elements I can include to decipher what the best music for the situation could be. That’s how music flows through me, and I am grateful for it.
[In this edition], the story continues from where part one ended. It’s not like a franchise in which the actors are retained but the characters are different. Here, we are continuing with the same characters. So, you’ll notice progress in the music. Even then, we tried to make something different from the past soundtrack.
Also, this time, we are making the film in Bengali, so we have to go through the exercise in six languages. It took me more than two months to make the songs, since I had to sit with the lyricists of each language to make it.
All the writers flew to Chennai to [work with me] in my studio. It was like a kavi sammelan. We had a great time talking about literature, lyrics, and old and new music.
You had previously mentioned that the kind of songs from Pushpa that became famous took you by surprise. What did you learn from that development?
Any creator will always create something with the hope that people will love it. An artiste creates art so that it appeals to people. Success, today, is defined as a song that reaches many people. Once it does, we need to see if it is being loved. We always work in this imaginary world where we assume our work will be appreciated. But, there may always be songs that do not enjoy the kind of reach that we desire. Other songs, however, have a wider reach, and there is always a balance that is created. So, I don’t analyze a soundtrack too much. I feel it takes away from the charm of working on new music. Create music, and then leave it to the audience. Sometimes, a song works in different instances. For example, I created a song called Bang bang for a film. I also choreographed and directed it. That song has suddenly started going viral now across India, China, Japan and Dubai. So, everything has its own journey. Sometimes, you don’t know the result, and you’ll have to wait.
You’re also active as an independent artiste. What’s in the pipeline?
I am doing it to encourage other musicians from the south, because the independent music scene is not [thriving] there. It’s only picking up now. This year, there are big collaborations [in the pipeline].
Why do you think the indie scene has not flourished in the south Indian market?
In the north, every occasion warrants a huge celebration, and music is a major part of it. Their culture is like that. Also, independent music has been thriving in the north for a long time. Punjabi music is celebrated across the world and is consumed by individuals who speak Hindi, Gujarati and Marathi too. It’s popular even in south India. The penetration of the language determines its success. I think it [south Indian music] will also have that reach [in due course of time].
Malayalam films lack OTT support-Fahadh Faasil
8:17 AM
Fahadh Faasil explains how Malayalam cinema’s biz model is different from rest of India’s
MID-DAY (April 24, 2024)
Malayalam star Fahadh Faasil, acclaimed for his recent release, Aavesham, has chalked out the difference between Malayalam cinema and the rest of Indian cinema. The actor, renowned for his roles in Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2016), Kumbalangi Nights (2019), Malik (2021), Joji (2021), and others, highlighted that Malayalam cinema still lacks substantial support from OTT platforms.
In an interview, Faasil said, “The trade has grown for Malayalam cinema, but our films even now don’t have a solid back-up of an online streaming platform. We need to prove our mettle in theatres for any of these things to come in. Unlike the rest of India, where almost 80 per cent of films are sold even before the shoot is started, things are different for us.”
Faasil claims that in case of Malayalam films, the potential of a movie is determined first, before OTT platforms put it out for streaming purposes.
The actor said, “Our model is not that, we need to finish the film and release it to demonstrate its potential before it gains traction on OTT platforms. This approach has influenced our industry’s cinematic culture, emphasizing the importance of crafting compelling stories and producing quality content.”
Faasil will next be seen as the antagonist in Pushpa 2 - The Rule.
Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan's success would have helped me-Jagapathi Babu
11:15 PM
Admitting that underwhelming response to Salman’s Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan left him sad, Telugu actor Jagapathi hopes to make inroads into Bollywood with Ruslaan
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; April 14, 2024)
Why would someone as accomplished as Jagapathi Babu, who has a 35-year career and numerous Telugu and Tamil films behind him, try his luck in Hindi movies? Why not, he laughs, when we meet him at Ruslaan’s trailer launch.
“I want to work in all languages; more the experience, more the fun. Also, I would be the only one to have tried all languages. I love that artistes from all languages are blending in,” he says.
The senior actor, 62, plays leading man Aayush Sharma’s father in the Karan L Butani-directed film. Before this, he debuted in Hindi films with Sharma’s superstar-brother-in-law Salman Khan’s Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan (KKBKKJ, 2023). The underwhelming response to the action drama left him heartbroken.
“When KKBKKJ didn’t work, I felt bad. It was a Salman Khan film. That success would have helped me. But Ruslaan will do the magic for me. My character has mettle. Our director had a clear vision of the story. The director-actor equation is like making love. I saw Karan’s eyes; they spoke to me. He could convey everything without talking. Working with Aayush was a joy. He is an assured actor and has a grip on everything.”
Ruslaan, also starring Vidya Malavade and Sushrii Mishraa, is a quintessential action film. Many believe that the genre is reaching a saturation point, but Babu isn’t worried. “A film’s first hero is the script. I feel mindless action has lost steam, but this film has emotions and enough heightened drama to hold the story.”
Up next, the actor will begin shooting for Pushpa 2 - The Rule. “I play the main antagonist in Pushpa 3. I will be introduced towards the end of Pushpa 2. It’s an interesting character.”
Pushpa 2 - The Rule might be postponed; won't clash with Singham Again on Independence Day?
8:10 AM
Box-office clash between Pushpa 2 - The Rule and Singham Again has been averted, as the former won’t have an I-Day release now
Sugandha Rawal Tagra (HINDUSTAN TIMES; April 1, 2024)
It was supposed to be a clash of the titans at the box office with Pushpa 2 - The Rule and Singham Again releasing on the Independence Day weekend. However, we have now learnt that the clash has been averted.
According to sources, the makers of Pushpa 2 - The Rule are mulling postponing the film. “They are planning to push the movie, as they won’t be able to complete it on time. Initially, the makers were hoping to finish it before August, but things are not going as planned,” the source tells us.
Apparently, many important sequences for the Allu Arjun-starrer are yet to be shot. The source adds, “The shoot was pushed because of Allu’s health. Also, Rashmika Mandanna had some other commitments. The actors are completely focused on the film now and things are going at a good pace. But there’s no way the film can have an August release.”
Last year, the shoot of Pushpa 2 - The Rule had to be halted because Arjun suffered severe back pain after shooting a song and fight sequence.
While Arjun and Mandanna will be seen in the sequel to the 2021 hit Pushpa: The Rise - Part 01, filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s Singham Again stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Ranveer Singh, Akshay Kumar, Deepika Padukone and Tiger Shroff.
We reached out to both the production houses for confirmation, but didn’t get any response till the time of going to press.
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