With just days to go for release, The Raja Saab has become one of the most talked-about films this Sankranti. Starring Prabhas, the film is drawing attention not only for its scale but also for the contrast
between overseas excitement and delayed ticket sales in India. Even though advance bookings in India have not yet opened, fans remain hopeful that the situation will be resolved soon. The film is still scheduled to release on January 9, and expectations remain high that it will arrive in theatres as planned. Overseas advance bookings pick up pace While domestic bookings are awaited, the overseas market has shown encouraging signs. According to industry trackers, The Raja Saab has recorded strong advance sales in the United States. As per Venky Box Office, the film has collected USD 7,15,038 (Rs 6.42 crore) in advance booking from the US, with 25,869 tickets sold across 1,406 shows at 513 locations. Across North America, the total advance collection has crossed USD 7,50,000 (Rs 6.74 crore) as of January 7 morning. These figures suggest a solid opening overseas and underline Prabhas’ continued popularity outside India. How it compares with Jana Nayagan Despite the positive overseas trend, The Raja Saab is still behind Jana Nayagan, starring Vijay, in advance bookings. Jana Nayagan has reportedly earned USD 3.90 million (around Rs 35 crore) overseas so far. In comparison, The Raja Saab has collected USD 1.22 million (around Rs 11 crore), showing a clear difference in pace. Budget, target and certification details The Prabhas-starrer is mounted on a reported budget of Rs 300 crore. To be considered a hit, the film is expected to cross Rs 400 crore worldwide, with nearly Rs 300 crore required from the Telugu market alone. Its performance in the Hindi belt will also be crucial. According to the Central Board of Film Certification, the 189-minute horror-comedy has received a UA 16+ certificate. Ticket price hike approved in Andhra Pradesh Ahead of the release, the Andhra Pradesh government has allowed special shows and a temporary hike in ticket prices. A special show can be held on January 9 between 6 pm and 12 am, with ticket prices capped at Rs 1,000, including GST. For the first 10 days, ticket prices can be increased by Rs 150 in single-screen theatres and Rs 200 in multiplexes. This means tickets will reportedly cost Rs 297 in single screens and Rs 377 in multiplexes. Directed by Maruthi, The Raja Saab also stars Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, Riddhi Kumar and Zarina Wahab, with music by Thaman S.
