The eagerly awaited film, The Raja Saab, directed by Maruthi, recently premiered and has garnered mixed reviews. With a budget estimated between Rs. 400 to 450 crore, the movie made a notable debut at the box office, earning over Rs. 15 crore on its opening day. The film features a star-studded cast, including Prabhas in the lead role, along with Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Nidhhi Agerwal, Riddhi Kumar, Malavika Mohanan, and Zarina Wahab.
As the movie quickly gained attention upon its release on January 9, 2026, discussions arose about its similarities to Akshay Kumar’s Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Producer T. G. Vishwa addressed these comparisons, clarifying that while both films share some thematic elements, The Raja Saab diverges significantly in terms of visual style and storyline. Prabhas portrays a character intertwined with his grandmother’s memories, setting the stage for a blend of horror and comedy.
Riddhi Kumar, a member of the cast, weighed in on the comparison with Bhool Bhulaiyaa. While acknowledging the strength of Kumar’s film, she emphasized the unique psychological aspect of The Raja Saab that transports viewers into a fantasy realm, distinguishing it from the more grounded nature of Bhool Bhulaiyaa.
Looking ahead, anticipation builds for the sequel titled The Raja Saab Circus 1935. Following the success of this first installment, the production team has confirmed that a second part is underway, though a release date has yet to be announced. Prabhas is expected to reprise his role as ‘Raju’, possibly adopting a new persona, the deadly Joker, though details remain unconfirmed.
Fans have reacted positively to Prabhas’s performance, appreciating his portrayal of ‘Raju’. With a significant portion of the movie’s budget allocated to his role, the actor’s return in the sequel showcases the filmmakers’ confidence in his appeal. As excitement continues to grow around the franchise, further announcements from the makers are anticipated in the near future.