Hyderabad, India | January 9, 2026
⭐ Movie Rating
★★★★☆ (4/5)
Prabhas’ much-anticipated film ‘The Raja Saab’ hit theaters worldwide today, January 9, 2026, drawing massive crowds on its opening day. Positioned as a full-scale mass entertainer, the film showcases Prabhas in a refreshed yet nostalgic avatar that has strongly resonated with his core fan base.
While The Raja Saab delivers several high points in performance, music, and scale, it also struggles with weak writing, pacing issues, and an extended runtime—making it a film that may divide audiences beyond loyal fans.
What Works in Favor
Vintage Prabhas Is Back:
One of the biggest highlights is Prabhas’ return to his old-school charm. His comedy timing, screen presence, and energetic performance have earned praise across social media, with fans celebrating his “vintage Prabhas” phase.
Sanjay Dutt’s Powerful Role:
Sanjay Dutt makes a strong impact in a significant role, with his confrontational scenes opposite Prabhas standing out. His character’s tantric backstory adds weight and intensity to the narrative.
Interval & Climax Sequences:
The pre-interval block and the nearly 40-minute-long climax manage to keep viewers engaged, delivering spectacle-driven moments that elevate the theatrical experience.
Background Score:
Composer S. Thaman’s background score enhances emotional beats and action sequences, receiving consistent appreciation.
Where the Film Falls Short
Weak Screenplay and Direction:
Despite its scale, the storyline feels outdated, and the execution lacks narrative sharpness.
Excessive Runtime:
With a duration of 3 hours 9 minutes, many viewers find the film overstretched and tiring.
Poor VFX Quality:
Visual effects have drawn criticism, with several scenes labeled as subpar and unconvincing.
Slow Pace:
The opening portions are slow, and songs appear force-fitted rather than organically integrated.
💰 Box Office Collection (Opening Day Update)
Based on early trade estimates and afternoon trends:
India Net Collection (Day 1, All Languages): ₹65–70 crore (estimated)
Worldwide Advance Booking: Over ₹50 crore (including premieres)
Overseas Market:
North America premieres crossed $1 million
Total overseas advance bookings at $1.77 million (₹15.3 crore)
Budget: Approx. ₹400 crore
Pre-Release Recovery: Around ₹350 crore through satellite, digital (JioHotstar), and music rights (T-Series)
Trade analysts suggest that despite its flaws, The Raja Saab could potentially approach the ₹1,000 crore mark if word-of-mouth among fans remains strong.
🎭 Cast & Crew
Lead Role:
Prabhas as Raja Saab
Female Leads:
Malavika Mohanan (Bhairavi)
Nidhhi Agerwal
Riddhi Kumar
Supporting Cast:
Sanjay Dutt
Boman Irani
Zarina Wahab
Samuthirakani
VTV Ganesh
Comedians:
Brahmanandam (Cameo)
Satya
Saptagiri
Technical Team:
Director: Maruthi Dasari
Music: S. Thaman
Producer: T.G. Vishwa Prasad (People Media Factory)
Runtime: 3 hours 9 minutes
