Actor-singer Prashant Tamang, who recently appeared as an assassin in the second season of the acclaimed streaming series Paatal Lok, has passed away at the age of 43. He is reported to have suffered a cardiac arrest.
Tamang rose to national prominence after winning Indian Idol Season 3 in 2007, a victory that marked one of the most decisive audience-driven moments in the history of Indian reality television. His triumph, achieved with a record number of votes, came after a closely watched finale against fellow contestant Amit Paul.
Before stepping into the limelight, Tamang served in the Kolkata Police, a detail that became central to his public narrative during the competition. Hailing from a Nepali-speaking Gorkha family, he drew extraordinary grassroots support from the Gorkha community across India and abroad. His appeal lay less in technical virtuosity and more in a restrained, heartfelt singing style that resonated widely with viewers.
Following his win, Tamang released his debut album Dhanyavaad in 2007, featuring tracks in Hindi and Nepali. The album found significant acceptance in eastern India and Nepal. While he went on to record playback songs for Hindi and regional films, his presence in mainstream Bollywood remained limited. In later years, he increasingly focused on Nepali-language music, where he built a steady career and a loyal listener base.
Tamang also explored acting, appearing in several Nepali films, including Gorkha Paltan, a project rooted in the historical legacy of the Gorkha military tradition. More recently, his appearance in Paatal Lok Season 2 marked a notable return to wider public attention.
Reacting to the news, Amit Paul shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, posting a throwback photograph of Tamang and writing that he was struggling to process the loss of “my brother, my friend, my dosti.”
Though he may not have remained a constant fixture in national pop culture, Prashant Tamang’s legacy endures. He is widely remembered as one of the earliest reality-show winners whose success was powered by regional identity, collective mobilisation, and audience voting strength—often cited as a turning point in how popular participation reshaped Indian television talent shows.
Los Angeles, Sept 14: The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards turned into a night of surprises, historic wins and emotional moments as Adolescence, The Studio, The Pitt, and The Late Show With Stephen Colbert emerged as the biggest winners.
The limited series Adolescence led the tally with six awards, including Best Limited or Anthology Series. Stephen Graham won Best Actor, while young star Owen Cooper made history as the youngest-ever male Emmy winner with his supporting role. Erin Doherty also bagged Best Supporting Actress, with Philip Barantini and Graham-Jack Thorne duo recognized for directing and writing respectively.
Comedy belonged to Seth Rogen’s The Studio, which won Best Comedy Series, alongside trophies for Best Actor, Best Directing, and Best Writing. Jean Smart further solidified her legacy with Best Actress in a Comedy Series for Hacks, while her co-star Hannah Einbinder earned Best Supporting Actress. In a major upset, Jeff Hiller claimed Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy for Somebody Somewhere, beating veteran nominee Harrison Ford.
Drama gold went to The Pitt, crowned Best Drama Series, with Noah Wyle winning Best Actor and Katherine LaNasa scoring a surprise victory for Best Supporting Actress. Severance also celebrated, with Britt Lower taking Best Actress and Tramell Tillman making history as the first Black man to win Supporting Actor in a Drama. Adam Randall won directing honors for Slow Horses.
In variety and talk categories, Stephen Colbert’s recently canceled The Late Show won Best Talk Series, receiving a thunderous standing ovation. John Oliver’s Last Week Tonight outshone SNL to claim Best Scripted Variety Series and Best Writing for a Variety Series, though SNL50: The Anniversary Special secured the Best Live Variety Special.
Cristin Milioti won Best Actress in a Limited Series for The Penguin, while The Traitors triumphed as Best Reality Competition Program. The ceremony also featured reunions, tributes, and an In Memoriam led by Phylicia Rashad.
Hosted by Nate Bargatze at LA’s Peacock Theater, the show celebrated both fresh talent and industry veterans, leaving audiences with memorable firsts and farewells in Emmy history.
Emmy Awards 2025- Complete List of Winners:
Best Drama Series – The Pitt Best Comedy Series – The Studio Best Limited or Anthology Series – Adolescence Best Reality Competition Program – The Traitors Best Talk Series – The Late Show With Stephen Colbert Best Scripted Variety Series – Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Best Variety Special (Live) – SNL50: The Anniversary Special
Best Actor in a Drama Series – Noah Wyle, The Pitt Best Actress in a Drama Series – Britt Lower, Severance Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series – Tramell Tillman, Severance Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series – Katherine LaNasa, The Pitt
Best Actor in a Comedy Series – Seth Rogen, The Studio Best Actress in a Comedy Series – Jean Smart, Hacks Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series – Jeff Hiller, Somebody Somewhere Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series – Hannah Einbinder, Hacks
Best Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie – Stephen Graham, Adolescence Best Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie – Cristin Milioti, The Penguin Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie – Owen Cooper, Adolescence Best Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie – Erin Doherty, Adolescence
Best Writing for a Drama Series – Dan Gilroy, Andor Best Writing for a Comedy Series – Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg & team, The Studio Best Writing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie – Jack Thorne & Stephen Graham, Adolescence Best Writing for a Variety Series – Last Week Tonight With John Oliver
Best Directing for a Drama Series – Adam Randall, Slow Horses Best Directing for a Comedy Series – Seth Rogen, The Studio Best Directing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie – Philip Barantini, Adolescence
Bollywood’s recent weekend offerings highlight a striking divergence in audience response and box office performance. Among them, Param Sundari, starring popular actors and backed by significant promotion, has struggled to maintain momentum in its second and third weeks. The film’s performance underscores the unpredictable nature of Bollywood’s domestic market, where star power and marketing do not always guarantee sustained commercial success.
Param Sundari arrived with considerable expectations, driven by its vibrant marketing campaign and a cast that included established stars and rising talent. The film’s music, energetic dance sequences, and glossy production design were positioned as key selling points to attract younger demographics and multiplex audiences.
However, despite these efforts, initial audience feedback pointed to mixed reviews regarding narrative coherence and character arcs. Critics praised the film’s visual appeal and choreography but noted pacing issues and a predictable storyline, elements that often affect repeat viewership and word-of-mouth momentum.
Weekend Box Office Performance
Industry trackers report that Param Sundari collected modest figures during its latest weekend, reflecting a significant drop from its opening week. While precise totals vary, estimates suggest weekend collections hovered in the range of ₹3–5 crore, a notable decline compared to expectations. This contrasts sharply with other Bollywood releases, which, despite competing for attention, fared better due to stronger narratives or novelty appeal.
The occupancy trends indicate that urban multiplexes in metros such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru saw moderate attendance, while single-screen theatres in smaller cities and towns reported even lower footfalls. Analysts attribute this disparity to both competition from regional hits and changing audience preferences favoring pan-India or globally themed narratives.
Param Sundari released alongside The Bengal Files and ongoing runs of regional blockbusters like Madharaasi and Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra. The latter titles, with their strong word-of-mouth and fan engagement, captured a significant share of audience attention, leaving less room for Param Sundari to perform.
Param Sundari
Additionally, the Bollywood landscape is experiencing a paradigm shift. Films that rely primarily on star power are facing challenges from content-driven releases and regional cinema with pan-India appeal. The success of films like The Kashmir Files and Gangubai Kathiawadi in recent years demonstrates that compelling storytelling often outweighs celebrity presence alone.
Social media reactions for Param Sundari have been mixed. While the film’s music tracks and dance numbers garnered appreciation, discussions around plot, character development, and engagement levels reflected disappointment among certain segments of the audience. Viral memes and humorous critiques have dominated online discourse, sometimes inadvertently keeping the film in public attention, though not translating into box office gains.
Viewer demographics indicate that younger audiences, who initially formed a strong part of the opening week crowd, were less inclined to return for repeat viewings. Critics highlight that the film’s core appeal, while visually rich, lacked narrative depth, reducing long-term engagement.
Param Sundari’s marketing campaign was robust, leveraging digital promotions, influencer partnerships, and music video launches to build pre-release anticipation. Distribution focused on maximizing screen presence in metropolitan cities and premium multiplex chains, aiming to target urban youth demographics.
However, the reliance on metro-centric strategies may have limited rural penetration, which, for Bollywood releases, often constitutes a substantial portion of total collections. In contrast, regional films such as Madharaasi and Lokah achieved broader reach across both urban and semi-urban markets, amplifying their box office resilience.
Critical Insights
The underperformance of Param Sundari highlights several key insights for Bollywood stakeholders:
Narrative Weight Matters: A strong storyline with emotional resonance is crucial for sustaining box office momentum beyond the opening weekend.
Competition With Regional Films: Regional cinema’s rising pan-India appeal requires Bollywood to compete not just with fellow Hindi films but also with high-quality regional releases.
Marketing Beyond Hype: Pre-release buzz is insufficient; sustained engagement through content and audience connect is critical for extended theatrical runs.
Audience Fragmentation: Urban multiplex audiences are increasingly discerning, while rural and smaller-city markets may respond differently, requiring a nuanced release strategy.
When compared to Baaghi 4 and The Bengal Files, Param Sundari illustrates the challenges Bollywood faces in balancing star-driven appeal with compelling content. While Baaghi 4 saw a drop in occupancy but benefited from franchise recognition, The Bengal Files leveraged topical storytelling to maintain steady collections. Param Sundari, despite high production values, struggled to achieve similar traction.
Future Bollywood Releases
The performance of Param Sundari may influence how studios approach mid-budget Bollywood projects. The reliance on aesthetics and dance-centric marketing alone appears insufficient. Audience expectations are shifting toward stronger scripts, character-driven narratives, and experiences that resonate emotionally or thematically.
For actors and producers, this signals the need to innovate within conventional Bollywood frameworks. Incorporating elements that offer novelty or align with current societal interests may prove decisive in future box office outcomes.
Param Sundari’s weekend performance serves as both a reality check and a learning opportunity for Bollywood. While its music, visuals, and star cast contributed to initial interest, the film’s inability to sustain momentum underscores the importance of content-driven appeal in today’s market.
In a landscape increasingly dominated by pan-India hits, regional cinema, and global releases, Bollywood must adapt strategies to align with evolving audience preferences. Param Sundari, despite underwhelming numbers, remains a talking point for industry analysis, providing insights into the changing dynamics of box office success in India.
Tamil cinema continues to assert itself as a powerhouse within India’s film ecosystem, with big-budget action entertainers driving both regional and pan-India revenue. The latest example is Madharaasi, starring Sivakarthikeyan and featuring Vidyut Jammwal in a pivotal antagonist role. In just a few days, the film has amassed nearly ₹50 crore, with analysts predicting it will soon cross the coveted ₹100 crore mark.
Over the past decade, Tamil cinema has demonstrated the ability to generate massive commercial returns without relying solely on Bollywood-style formulas. Films like Master, Leo, and Vikram have showcased the appeal of high-octane narratives combined with strong star power. Madharaasi continues this trajectory, delivering a blend of adrenaline-pumping action, engaging storytelling, and mass-appeal elements that cater to both metro and tier-2 audiences.
Industry trackers report that Madharaasi collected approximately ₹25 crore on its opening day, making it one of the highest openings for a Sivakarthikeyan-starrer. Strong word of mouth, coupled with strategic scheduling across multiplexes and single-screen theatres, has ensured steady collections. By the end of its first weekend, the film had already crossed ₹50 crore, cementing its status as a commercial hit.
The momentum is expected to continue in the following weeks, particularly as overseas collections from markets such as Singapore, Malaysia, and the UAE contribute significantly to the total. These regions, with large Tamil-speaking populations, often act as crucial revenue boosters for Tamil cinema’s big releases.
Star Power And Audience Appeal
Sivakarthikeyan, known for his charisma and mass appeal, anchors the film effectively, drawing audiences across demographics. Vidyut Jammwal’s inclusion as a formidable antagonist adds an edge to the narrative, bringing action credibility that resonates with thrill-seeking audiences.
The film also employs high-octane sequences, visually striking choreography, and a tightly woven screenplay that keeps viewers engaged. Its action-driven narrative ensures repeat viewing, a common feature of blockbuster Tamil films where audiences flock back to witness stunts and climactic showdowns.
Madharaasi exemplifies the increasing professionalism and scale of Tamil cinema. From elaborate sets to cutting-edge VFX sequences, the production quality rivals larger pan-India films. The promotional campaign has leveraged social media extensively, with teaser releases, behind-the-scenes content, and influencer-driven marketing fueling anticipation ahead of the premiere.
Madharaasi box office
Music has also played a pivotal role. The film’s soundtrack, released ahead of the movie, gained traction on streaming platforms, creating pre-release hype and helping draw audiences to theatres. Songs featuring Sivakarthikeyan and Jammwal’s on-screen confrontations became viral, amplifying the film’s visibility.
Timing has been a crucial factor in Madharaasi’s success. It avoided clashing with major Bollywood releases, focusing on maximizing occupancy across Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Its release coincided with school and college holidays, further boosting footfalls among younger demographics.
Regional And Pan-India Impact
While primarily a Tamil release, Madharaasi’s appeal extends beyond regional boundaries. Dubbed versions in Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam are contributing to cumulative box office figures. Analysts suggest that Tamil films with universal action themes are increasingly able to compete with Hindi and Telugu blockbusters in non-Tamil-speaking regions.
This strategy of multi-lingual releases is reminiscent of the pan-India approach pioneered by Telugu cinema, and it reflects a larger trend where regional films are no longer confined by linguistic barriers.
With production costs reported at approximately ₹60 crore, Madharaasi’s rapid revenue generation ensures a high return on investment. The ₹100 crore benchmark is both a symbolic and financial milestone, underscoring the commercial viability of high-budget regional films. For distributors and exhibitors, the film has reinforced the profitability of Tamil action entertainers, encouraging further investment in large-scale projects.
Audience response has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly on social media platforms where discussions about stunts, dialogues, and performances have trended widely. Memes, reaction videos, and fan edits have contributed to a sustained marketing effect, ensuring the film remains in public discourse well beyond the opening weekend.
Critics have praised the film for balancing high-octane entertainment with a coherent narrative, a combination that ensures both commercial and critical appeal. While some noted predictable plot elements, the performances and production scale have mitigated potential criticism.
Madharaasi’s success exemplifies the growing trend of Tamil cinema exporting its content to wider Indian and international markets. With strategic multi-lingual releases, strong star power, and high-quality production, Tamil films are increasingly challenging the dominance of Bollywood and Telugu films in multiple regions.
The performance also highlights the potential of mid-to-high budget films in regional industries to deliver blockbuster returns, encouraging producers to invest in ambitious projects that balance storytelling with commercial appeal.
Tamil Cinema On The Rise
Despite its early success, challenges remain. Sustaining box office momentum beyond the first two weeks is critical. The arrival of other regional releases and potential Bollywood competition could impact long-term collections. Additionally, maintaining consistent quality in pan-India releases will be crucial for Tamil films seeking broader appeal.
Nevertheless, industry experts remain optimistic. The combination of star appeal, production scale, and audience engagement suggests that Madharaasi will comfortably cross ₹100 crore, further strengthening Tamil cinema’s standing in the Indian box office hierarchy.
Madharaasi is more than just another action entertainer, it is a testament to Tamil cinema’s evolving landscape. By nearing ₹100 crore in just a few days, it has showcased the market’s appetite for high-quality, action-driven films with universal appeal. For producers, distributors, and exhibitors, the film serves as both inspiration and blueprint for future pan-India successes.
Tamil audiences, meanwhile, have responded enthusiastically, proving that regional films with scale, star power, and compelling narratives can achieve blockbuster status, rivaling even the most dominant Bollywood and Telugu offerings.
The Malayalam film industry has long been admired for its storytelling finesse, sharp writing, and grounded realism. But when it comes to box office scale, it often found itself overshadowed by the pan-India juggernauts of Telugu and Tamil cinema. That perception is now changing. Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra has stormed past the ₹112 crore mark, cementing its position as one of the biggest Malayalam blockbusters of all time and underlining the industry’s evolution into a formidable commercial force.
Historically, Malayalam cinema has thrived on modest budgets and urban narratives. Its strength lay in critical acclaim rather than commercial clout. The emergence of directors experimenting with high-scale spectacles has shifted that balance. Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra epitomizes this shift, merging Malayalam cinema’s storytelling depth with the spectacle-driven appeal of pan-India productions.
Crossing ₹112 crore is no small feat for a regional film primarily driven by Kerala’s domestic market. The film’s success signals that Malayalam cinema can now consistently produce titles with nationwide, and even overseas, pull.
Box Office Trajectory: From Regional To National
Released in late August, Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra opened to packed theatres across Kerala. Within its first week, it had already grossed over ₹40 crore. Strong word of mouth and positive reviews ensured sustained momentum. As it expanded into Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and the Gulf states—where the Malayali diaspora is significant—the collections accelerated.
Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra’ movie box office figures
By week three, the film had breached the ₹100 crore mark, becoming one of the fastest Malayalam titles to achieve that milestone. Its current tally of ₹112 crore underscores both its universal appeal and smart distribution strategy.
Why The Film Clicked
Several factors contributed to the film’s runaway success:
Star Power: The lead actor’s magnetic performance resonated with audiences, elevating the film from regional hit to national sensation.
Pan-India Storytelling: While deeply rooted in Malayalam culture, the narrative explored universal themes of power, betrayal, and resilience.
Visual Grandeur: High production values, elaborate sets, and cutting-edge visual effects rivaled those of Tamil and Telugu big-budget spectacles.
Music And Emotion: A powerful soundtrack, combined with emotional arcs, gave the film mass appeal across demographics.
To understand the significance of Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra, one must compare it with earlier milestones. Films like Drishyam and Lucifer were turning points, proving Malayalam films could compete at the box office. But Chandra has gone further, crossing revenue thresholds previously thought unattainable.
Where Lucifer stopped at around ₹125 crore worldwide, Chandra is on track to surpass it with its continued run in overseas markets. Trade experts predict a final tally near ₹140–150 crore, putting it firmly in pan-India blockbuster territory.
The Overseas Factor
The Gulf region has always been a stronghold for Malayalam cinema. Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra capitalized on this by launching aggressively in UAE, Qatar, and Oman, with multiple shows daily. The diaspora turned out in droves, making it one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films overseas.
Interestingly, the film has also done well in non-traditional markets like North America and Australia, aided by the rising curiosity around South Indian cinema post-RRR and KGF. This crossover appeal highlights Malayalam cinema’s growing recognition on the global stage.
While commercial performance has been stellar, critics have also lauded the film’s balance of scale and substance. Reviews praised its intricate screenplay, layered characters, and ability to weave grandeur without losing emotional depth.
On social media, the film has trended consistently, with fan edits, viral dialogues, and music reels amplifying its reach. The buzz has particularly resonated with younger audiences, who are increasingly engaging with South Indian cinema as “cooler” alternatives to Bollywood offerings.
The Pan-India Template
The film’s success underscores a larger industry trend: the “pan-India” model is no longer limited to Telugu and Kannada blockbusters. Malayalam cinema, once seen as too niche or arthouse for national expansion, is now firmly part of the conversation.
Producers are recognizing the need to balance authenticity with universal storytelling. Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra achieves this balance, presenting Kerala’s ethos while packaging it in a format digestible to audiences across India.
For the Malayalam industry, Chandra’s ₹112 crore haul is both validation and inspiration. It signals that investing in big-scale productions is viable, provided the content retains Malayalam cinema’s storytelling DNA. This could encourage more studios to experiment with higher budgets, advanced VFX, and broader distribution networks.
The film also raises expectations for its sequels. Being Chapter 1, the franchise model promises more to come, potentially creating a Malayalam cinematic universe that can rival its Telugu and Tamil counterparts.
Despite its success, challenges remain. Scaling consistently requires strong infrastructure, marketing muscle, and risk appetite. Malayalam cinema, known for its modest production ecosystem, must adapt to the logistical demands of pan-India blockbusters.
Another hurdle is linguistic accessibility. While dubbed versions have worked in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, penetration in Hindi-speaking states remains limited. Building Hindi-market appeal will be crucial for future growth.
A New Dawn For Malayalam Cinema
Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra is more than a blockbuster; it is a statement of intent. By crossing ₹112 crore, it has demonstrated that Malayalam cinema can deliver not just critical gems but also mass-market spectacles. Its success contributes to what many are calling Malayalam cinema’s golden year, alongside other hits that have found both acclaim and box office validation.
As audiences across India embrace diverse storytelling, the barriers that once confined Malayalam cinema are fading. Chandra stands as a symbol of this transformation—a film that carries Kerala’s cinematic legacy into a bold new era of commercial dominance.
Horror has always been a niche genre in India, oscillating between cult classics and low-budget thrillers. Yet, the sustained success of The Conjuring franchise has rewritten that narrative, making supernatural horror a reliable box office draw. With The Conjuring: Last Rites crossing the ₹70 crore mark in India, the film has reaffirmed both the franchise’s popularity and the Indian audience’s growing comfort with global horror.
When The Conjuring debuted in 2013, few expected it to break through cultural barriers in India, where family dramas and star-driven vehicles ruled the roost. But James Wan’s taut storytelling and the chillingly authentic Ed and Lorraine Warren mythology struck a chord. Every installment since, Annabelle, The Nun, and The Conjuring sequels, has grown its fan base.
For Indian audiences, the blend of Hollywood-grade production with universal themes of fear, faith, and family protection made The Conjuring films resonate more than gore-heavy Western horror franchises. Last Rites is the latest example of this enduring formula.
Industry trackers reveal that Last Rites opened strong, with an opening weekend collection of nearly ₹30 crore. Multiplexes in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad reported full houses, with late-night shows selling out, a rarity in the horror genre.
After three weeks in theatres, the film has now crossed ₹70 crore in India, placing it among the most successful Hollywood horror releases in the country. Globally, the film is inching towards the US$400 million mark, with India contributing a significant slice to its overseas revenues.
For context, this is more than many mid-tier Bollywood films this year, highlighting the widening gap between local star power and Hollywood franchises.
Why Indian Audiences Love The Conjuring
The appeal of The Conjuring franchise in India goes beyond jump scares. Experts cite several factors:
Brand Recall: The Warren family narrative has become as recognizable in India as the Fast & Furious ensemble. Each installment builds familiarity.
Word of Mouth: Horror thrives on community viewing, and Indian audiences relish collective theatre experiences, screams, laughs, and nervous chatter.
Faith Factor: The films’ religious undertones, exorcisms, priests, and demonic possession, find cultural echoes in India’s own myths and beliefs.
Youth Appeal: Gen Z audiences are leading the horror wave, often drawn by viral TikTok/Instagram reactions that amplify the scare factor.
Compared to other superhero blockbusters, horror films operate on modest budgets. Last Rites reportedly cost under US$40 million to make, yet its Indian box office alone has yielded nearly a quarter of that figure. The ROI makes horror an attractive genre for distributors and theatres, particularly in markets like India, where horror enjoys a communal pull.
The genre also benefits from repeat value. Fans often revisit screenings to watch friends’ reactions or relive scare sequences, boosting footfalls. OTT releases, when they arrive, sustain the hype, ensuring longevity of the franchise.
Last Rites enjoyed a relatively clean run in India with no major Bollywood releases clashing during its opening. This gap allowed the film to dominate multiplex schedules. Its release ahead of Halloween also positioned it well for extended traction, as horror films traditionally peak during festival seasons globally.
Meanwhile, regional releases like Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra and Madharaasi catered to different markets, allowing Last Rites to consolidate pan-India collections.
The film’s success also highlights Hollywood’s uneven year in India. While superhero tentpoles like Deadpool & Wolverine broke records, dramas and family titles underperformed. Horror, however, has been consistent, with films like The Nun II and Annabelle Comes Home doing solid business. Last Rites has built on that track record, positioning horror as Hollywood’s reliable weapon in India.
Audience Reactions And Cultural Fit
Social media reactions from Indian audiences underline how well Last Rites has connected. From memes about sleepless nights to viral clips of people screaming in theatres, the community-driven marketing has boosted its run.
Interestingly, cultural familiarity with ghost stories has helped. India has its own folklore of spirits, possessions, and haunted houses. This backdrop makes The Conjuring’s demonic universe more accessible, unlike Western slashers that often rely on niche tropes.
The ₹70 crore success of Last Rites raises tough questions for Bollywood. Despite mega budgets and big stars, many Hindi films have struggled to cross that benchmark this year. Hollywood horror, by contrast, is doing it with less noise, fewer stars, and relatively modest costs.
Some Indian filmmakers are now experimenting with horror-thrillers, recent examples include Stree and Bhediya, which mixed comedy with scares. But Hollywood’s slick production and global branding keep the bar high.
Distributors expect more horror franchises to capitalize on India’s appetite. The Nun III and rumored Annabelle spin-offs are already anticipated. At the same time, Netflix and Amazon Prime are pushing horror originals, hoping to capture the same audience on streaming.
For exhibitors, the lesson is clear: horror is no longer a niche weekend filler. It is a bankable genre that can deliver blockbuster returns with relatively lower investment.
Conclusion: Fear Is Profitable
The Conjuring: Last Rites is more than a box office hit—it is proof that horror has cemented its place in India’s mainstream entertainment. With ₹70 crore and counting, the franchise continues to defy odds, reminding us that fear, when packaged well, can be just as profitable as love stories or action spectacles.
For Indian audiences, the appeal lies in shared screams and heart-pounding nights. For Hollywood and theatres, it’s about steady revenue and expanding cultural dominance. And for Bollywood, it’s a wake-up call: perhaps the scariest competition comes not from rivals at home, but from ghosts abroad.
The Indian box office has traditionally been dominated by Bollywood blockbusters, pan-India Telugu or Tamil juggernauts, and Hollywood’s superhero spectacles. But in recent years, a new genre has been quietly and steadily building a following: Japanese anime. The release of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle marks a watershed moment in this trend, as the film’s numbers from its opening weekend suggest anime is no longer a niche segment in India—it is becoming mainstream entertainment.
Japanese anime films were once confined to small screenings in select metros, catering to dedicated fan clubs and subculture enthusiasts. Titles like Your Name and Weathering With You hinted at the potential, but the real explosion came with the Demon Slayer franchise. Its earlier film, Mugen Train, set the global box office on fire in 2020, becoming the highest-grossing Japanese film of all time.
In India, the pandemic delayed the anime boom, but once theatres reopened, anime quickly became a crowd-puller. Today, Infinity Castle is riding on this momentum, pulling in audiences far beyond its traditional base. Multiplex chains are reporting strong occupancy, not just in metros like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, but also in Tier-2 cities such as Pune, Kochi, and Lucknow.
Box Office Numbers: A Strong Opening
Industry trackers note that Infinity Castle collected over ₹12 crore in its first weekend in India, an impressive figure for an anime title. While it pales in comparison to Bollywood tentpoles, the significance lies in the scale of growth. Just three years ago, anime films would barely manage a crore in lifetime collections. The new release, buoyed by aggressive fan campaigns and smart positioning by PVR INOX, is already on track to cross the ₹25 crore mark in its theatrical run.
This is more than just a financial milestone; it signals a cultural shift. The Indian youth demographic, heavily influenced by streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix, is willing to pay theatre prices to watch their favorite anime in dubbed or subtitled formats.
The Demon Slayer franchise combines emotional storytelling, stunning animation, and intense battle sequences, making it accessible even to those new to anime. In India, the dubbed versions, particularly in Hindi and Tamil, are driving footfalls. Parents accompanying teenagers to screenings are discovering anime as a cinematic experience, not just animated content for kids.
Moreover, the timing of the release has worked in its favor. With limited Bollywood competition this week and no major pan-India releases, anime had the space to shine. The makers also tapped into social media trends, with fan art, cosplay events, and influencer promotions building buzz in advance.
Anime vs Hollywood in India
The rise of Infinity Castle comes at a time when Hollywood itself is struggling at the Indian box office. While superhero films like Deadpool & Wolverine continue to draw big numbers, other mid-budget films are faltering. Anime seems to have carved out a stable niche, with better cost-to-revenue ratios, especially after the success of Indian animation film Mahavatar Narsimha.
Trade experts argue that anime’s “event film” positioning, limited shows, fan-driven campaigns, and passionate word of mouth, creates an urgency to watch in theatres. This contrasts with Hollywood dramas or comedies, which often find themselves relegated to OTT.
The impact of Infinity Castle goes beyond ticket sales. Merchandise sales, from figurines to posters, are spiking online. Pop culture events in India now regularly feature anime cosplay, with Demon Slayer characters being among the most popular. This commercial ecosystem strengthens the franchise’s long-term prospects in India.
Streaming platforms, too, are beneficiaries. Fans who watched Infinity Castle are flocking to catch up on older Demon Slayer episodes on Crunchyroll and Netflix, driving up subscription retention. This creates a feedback loop where theatrical success boosts streaming, which in turn builds anticipation for future films.
Road Ahead For Anime In India
The success of Infinity Castle raises important questions for distributors and exhibitors. Will anime become a permanent fixture in India’s release calendar, or is it still too dependent on a handful of big titles? Industry insiders say more consistency is needed. Titles from franchises like One Piece, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Dragon Ball could sustain momentum, but their local distributors must ensure wide release patterns.
Additionally, Indian filmmakers are watching closely. With the younger audience embracing Japanese storytelling, studios may explore Indo-anime collaborations, a concept already popular in Southeast Asia.
Despite the glowing numbers, anime films still face hurdles in India. Ticket pricing is one. Premium screens with higher rates may alienate some fans, limiting reach. Language accessibility also remains uneven, while Hindi and Tamil dubs are common, Bengali, Telugu, and Marathi versions are rare.
Piracy is another challenge. The hardcore anime community is used to accessing content online, and leaks can dent box office momentum. Distributors need tighter release strategies to minimize this risk.
Turning Point For Indian Theatres
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle is more than just a box office hit, it’s a signal of evolving tastes. Indian audiences, particularly Gen Z and millennials, are open to global pop culture influences beyond Hollywood. With strategic distribution, anime could become a ₹200–300 crore annual business in India over the next few years.
For theatres recovering from pandemic losses, this is welcome news. Anime screenings bring in younger audiences who may become lifelong moviegoers, ensuring cinemas remain relevant in a streaming-dominated era.
In 2025, Bollywood witnessed the release of two major films—”Chhaava” and “Sikandar”—each offering unique narratives and showcasing significant performances. With a high-profile cast including Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, and Ashutosh Rana, Chhaava has set the benchmark for all upcoming Bollywood films and overwhelming the past records by several blockbusters.
Chhaava, produced with a substantial budget of approximately ₹200 crore, stands as a grand historical spectacle, showcasing elaborate production design and intricate period settings. Right from its release, the film made a significant impact at the box office, earning ₹31 crore on its opening day. Over four weeks, it amassed a net collection of ₹525.7 crore in India, reinforcing its dominance in the domestic market. On the global stage, Chhaava achieved a remarkable ₹691 crore in worldwide earnings, surpassing the lifetime collection of Sunny Deol’s Gadar 2, which stood at ₹686 crore.
When compared with previous Bollywood blockbusters, Chhaava finds itself in esteemed company. Salman Khan’s Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), made on a budget of ₹90 crore, grossed ₹969 crore worldwide, while Aamir Khan’s Dangal (2016), produced with ₹70 crore, achieved an extraordinary ₹2,024 crore globally.
In the historical drama genre, Padmaavat (2018), which had a budget of ₹215 crore, collected ₹585 crore worldwide. Meanwhile, the big-budget fantasy film Brahmastra (2022), made with ₹410 crore, managed to garner ₹430 crore at the global box office. With its impressive financial success, Chhaava has secured its place among the highest-grossing Bollywood films, further solidifying Bollywood’s ability to deliver large-scale, commercially successful epics.
Sikandar
Sikandar, produced with a budget of ₹180 crore (excluding Salman Khan’s remuneration), was backed by an additional ₹20 crore allocated for promotions and advertising. Even before its theatrical release, the film secured impressive non-theatrical revenue, mitigating financial risks. The OTT rights were sold to Netflix for ₹85 crore, with a clause that could increase the deal to ₹100 crore if the box office collection crosses ₹350 crore. Additionally, the satellite rights were acquired by Zee for ₹50 crore, while Zee Music Company secured the music rights for ₹30 crore. With a total potential non-theatrical revenue of ₹180 crore, the film had already recovered a significant portion of its production cost.
Released on March 30, 2025, Sikandar received positive initial reviews, and its box office figures were highly anticipated. Comparisons with previous Bollywood action blockbusters highlight its financial standing in the industry. Tiger Zinda Hai (2017), made on a ₹210 crore budget, amassed ₹565 crore worldwide, while War (2019), with a budget of ₹170 crore, collected ₹475 crore globally. Salman Khan’s Sultan (2016), produced for ₹145 crore, outperformed both with a staggering ₹623 crore worldwide. By securing major non-theatrical deals ahead of time, Sikandar showcased a strategic financial approach, ensuring stability regardless of its box office trajectory.
Both “Chhaava” and “Sikandar” have made notable contributions to Bollywood’s 2025 cinematic landscape. “Chhaava” has achieved remarkable box office success, while “Sikandar” has leveraged non-theatrical avenues to mitigate financial risks. These strategies reflect the evolving dynamics of Bollywood’s film production and distribution in a competitive market.
