Mumbai: Kalki 2898 AD, a cinematic marvel featuring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, and Amitabh Bachchan, has been lauded as a masterpiece directed by the talented Nag Ashwin. Making waves at the box office since its release, the film continues to capture the attention of audiences worldwide. Box office reports highlight its impressive financial journey, having amassed a staggering Rs 900 crore globally by its 11th day. Despite such accomplishments, a critical question looms: Can it dethrone the highest-grossing titans of modern Indian cinema—Shah Rukh Khan’s blockbusters Jawan and Pathaan? Industry experts suggest otherwise.
In an exclusive discussion with Zee News, trade expert Rohit Jaiswal provided insights into Kalki 2898 AD’s box office trajectory. “Kalki is undeniably a masterpiece, receiving widespread acclaim from audiences. The film has significantly surpassed its budget of Rs 650 crore. My current data indicate Kalki’s earnings around Rs 700 to 750 crore by its 11th day, with producers enjoying an additional buffer of Rs 100 to Rs 150 crore,” Jaiswal mentioned. Despite these figures, Jaiswal was candid about the film’s limitations, asserting that it is unlikely to eclipse Jawan and Pathaan in terms of total box office earnings. “Everyone is familiar with Kalki’s storyline, and while it performed admirably across India, its reception in Telangana was somewhat underwhelming. Therefore, Jawan and Pathaan are poised to maintain their status as top-grossers.”
Shah Rukh Khan, often referred to as the “King of Bollywood,” has firmly reinstated his dominance over the box office with his recent successes. His return with Pathaan marked a resounding comeback after a significant hiatus, reaffirming his status as the ultimate box office monarch. Pathaan’s achievement was quickly followed by the colossal success of Jawan. This remarkable one-two punch has cemented SRK’s unparalleled appeal and commercial prowess. His contributions to the film industry were even recognized by business tycoon Anand Mahindra, who facetiously declared Shah Rukh Khan as “a national resource,” a sentiment echoed by fans and critics alike.
In the realm of box office numbers, Pathaan and Jawan’s success narrative is compelling. Both films shattered numerous records, setting new benchmarks for Indian cinema.
. Pathaan, with its star-studded cast and high-octane action sequences, garnered immense pre-release hype, translating into box office gold. Jawan, on the other hand, continued this momentum, further solidifying SRK’s unassailable position within the industry.
Returning to Kalki 2898 AD, the film is an ambitious blend of high-concept storytelling and stellar performances. Helmed by visionary director Nag Ashwin, the movie blends mythological elements with cutting-edge special effects, crafting a narrative that is both grand in scope and intimate in character exploration. Prabhas, once again, proves his mettle, delivering a performance that resonates with audiences and critics. Deepika Padukone and Amitabh Bachchan, with their undeniable screen presence, add considerable gravitas to the film.
Yet, despite these strengths, the comparison with Shah Rukh Khan’s blockbusters remains a daunting one. Trade analyst Jaiswal iterates that while Kalki 2898 AD is performing exceptionally well, the bar set by Jawan and Pathaan is extraordinarily high. “SRK’s films have this universal appeal and massive fanbase that transcend regional boundaries, making them virtually unbeaten in the current era of Indian cinema,” Jaiswal expounded.
The narrative arc of Pathaan and Jawan’s triumph is underscored by the extensive marketing strategies and the sheer star power of Shah Rukh Khan. Both films benefited from meticulous promotional campaigns, creating a frenzy that was palpable both domestically and internationally. Pathaan’s electrifying promotional events and the innovative marketing tactics employed for Jawan kept audiences engaged and anticipating each release with bated breath.
Meanwhile, Kalki 2898 AD’s path to success, although illustrious, seems more subdued in comparison. The film’s storyline, while deeply engaging for many, might not have the same universal pull. Additionally, the film’s mixed reception in certain regions, as highlighted by Jaiswal, exemplifies the uneven terrain it navigates.
In conclusion, while Kalki 2898 AD is carving a commendable niche in the cinematic landscape with its artistic bravado and box office numbers, it faces a herculean challenge in outpacing the incredibly high benchmarks set by Shah Rukh Khan’s Pathaan and Jawan. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the Indian film industry is witnessing an era of unprecedented cinematic achievements, driven by visionary filmmakers and unparalleled star power.
