Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna starrer Sikandar directed by AR Murugadoss is all set to hit screens on Sunday (March 30) on the eve of Eid 2025. Fans have been eagerly waiting to witness their superstar take over the big screen once again on the festive occasion. The trailer, released earlier this week, has garnered a positive response, further elevating the excitement for Sikandar release. But will this hype translate into a big box office collection? We spoke to a few trade experts to understand the sentiment.
Trade analyst and critic Sumit Kadel is looking at a number closer to Rs 300 crore at the box office for Sikandar. “It’s fair to acknowledge that Salman Khan is no longer in his prime like he was from 2009 to 2017. So expecting Rs 400-500 crore nett grossers from his films at this stage might not be realistic. That said, if Sikandar manages to collect Rs 250-300 crore in its lifetime, it would be a solid success, and the trade would be happy with a Hit verdict,” he opined.
Rohit Jaiswal, critic and trade expert feels that it will all depend on the first few shows of the Salman Khan film, the reviews from critics and fans. “Even if Sikandar turns out to be just ENTERTAINING it will do between Rs 270 – 300 crore. And in case it turns out to be SPECTACULAR then Rs 450- 500 will be easily achievable.” Interestingly, at the Sikandar trailer launch event in Mumbai, Salman Khan had said, “Meri picture chaahe jaisi bhi ho, mere fans 200 paar karwa he dete hain.” That is Bhaijaan ka superstardom and its power.
However, there has been a lot of banter on social media about Salman’s looks. His recent public appearances have left fans concerned. There’s worry about his health, comments that he is suddenly looking his age and unfit too. But will this have any kind of impact on Sikandar? Sumit Kadel points out that Salman suffered a major rib injury, which affected his ability to maintain his strict diet and regular workouts, leading to his current physique over the past year. “As for Sikandar, I always felt that if the trailer clicks with the audience, the film is poised for a strong opening and a big weekend, especially with the Eid release advantage. His body shape and other factors won’t impact his loyal fan base. And the trailer is much better than Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, Radhe and Race 3,” he said.
Rohit Jaiswal wants everyone to acknowledge that Salman is almost 60. “Looking his age? He is almost 60 and he was clean shaved. And even if there is any health issue it will be sorted out, fans should be happy that even at this stage he is working. Let’s not forget that he is still considered to be India’s topmost superstar.”
About the rumours that Salman heavily used a body double while filming Sikandar, Sumit Kadel said, “And everyone else is also using body doubles – Shah Rukh Khan, Prabhas, Hrithik Roshan, har koi.”
Sikandar is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and apart from Salman and Rashmika Mandanna, it also stars Kajal Aggarwal, Sharman Joshi, Sathyaraj, Anjani Dhawan in key roles. The film hits theatres on March 30 and advance booking is open now.
Stay tuned to BollywoodLife for the latest scoops and updates from Bollywood, Hollywood, South, TV and Web-Series.
Read the full article here
