Sun Mar 30 06:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Salman Khan’s “Sikandar” Opens to Strong Advance Bookings Despite Piracy Concerns
**Mumbai, India –** Salman Khan’s latest action film, “Sikandar,” directed by A.R. Murugadoss, premiered in theaters on March 30th, a day before Eid ul-Fitr, generating significant buzz. Early box office projections suggest a strong opening, with pre-release ticket sales in the Hindi region alone estimated at ₹13.53 crore (approximately $1.6 million USD). Over 8,000 Hindi-language screenings across India are scheduled, indicating a substantial theatrical release.
The film, also starring Rashmika Mandanna, Kajal Aggarwal, and others, faced a box office clash with Mohanlal’s “Empuraan.” Khan expressed his admiration for both Mohanlal and director Prithviraj Sukumaran, even jokingly urging companies to provide bonuses to allow audiences to see both films, as well as Sunny Deol’s upcoming “Jaat.” Deol himself extended his best wishes to Khan for “Sikandar’s” release.
However, “Sikandar” suffered a setback even before its official release due to online piracy. HD prints leaked onto several websites hours before the theatrical premiere, prompting condemnation from producer Sajid Nadiadwala and trade analysts who highlighted the serious threat posed by industry insiders involved in the leak. Authorities reportedly took down the pirated copies from over 600 websites.
Initial audience reactions have been mixed. While some praise Salman Khan’s performance and the film’s action sequences, others criticize the outdated storyline and slow pacing, particularly in the first half. Reviews range from overwhelmingly positive to highly critical, with scores varying widely. Early box office figures from Sacnilk indicate a ₹1.73 crore (approximately $210,000 USD) opening day haul in India. The long-term success of “Sikandar” remains to be seen, pending the impact of piracy and the overall audience response.
First Piper 