Prabhas is back on the big screen this Sankranthi with ‘The Raja Saab,’ a film that came in the backdrop of usually high curiosity about its post-theatrical journey. Directed by Maruthi, the Telugu blend of horror, fantasy, and comedy puts the star actor in a much lighter, less serious avatar after a string of big, intense roles in the past couple of years. With ‘Jana Nayagan’ opting out of the race, ‘The Raja Saab’ had it easy at the box office, being the only viable festive option for audiences wanting to watch a massy film with horror elements.
Opened with mixed theatrical response
The response to the film, however, has been varied. While many buyers and fans were backing the film’s genre-bending style, visual canvas, and light-hearted sequences, some say the film could have been more compact. According to early estimates from tracking agencies, the film grossed more than ₹6 crore on the first day, with the trade observing its performance during the extended weekend. Moreover, the film’s all-around recovery is put under the spotlight as it comes with a staggering budget of Rs.350 crores, one of the highest among Telugu films, with a good slice going to Prabhas’ salaries.
OTT rights secured by a leading platform
Even as box office figures continue to be finalized, the focus has shifted unequivocally towards the OTT release of The Raja Saab. As per a report by OTT Play, the film has been picked up for digital streaming by JioHotstar after a long negotiation process. The producers were keen to get an appropriate price for the film, leading to hesitation on the part of many platforms, counter to the build-up expected before any film’s release and its marketing. The presence of JioHotstar will surely cast a wider net for the film, especially among those who enjoy generic fantasy-horror-type films that are streaming.
‘The Raja Saab’ sequel plans
Building on its future potential, “The Raja Saab” also sows the seeds for a sequel in the hope of franchise expansion. The much-talked-about end credits reveal “The Raja Saab Part 2,” generating instant fan theories. Director Maruthi stated this will not be a direct sequel but rather a new story in the same universe with elements of horror. Starring Malavika Mohanan in the Telugu space debut alongside Niddhi Agerwal, Riddhi Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, and Boman Irani, and music by Thaman, the film’s OTT success or failure will ultimately decide the fate of this exciting franchise.
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