Can Ranbir Outshine SRK & Salman?

Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna are currently immersed in promotional activities for their highly anticipated film, “Animal,” directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. During the pre-release event in Hyderabad, Ranbir expressed his desire to be embraced as the adopted son of the Telugu states.

Ranbir’s previous film, Brahmastra, made significant inroads into the Telugu market, a feat unparalleled by most Bollywood films, with the exception of Hrithik Roshan’s ventures like Dhoom 2 and Krrish. Shah Rukh Khan’s Pathaan performed well, and Jawan exceeded expectations. The potential for Animal in the Telugu states is unlimited, primarily owing to the influence of Sandeep Reddy Vanga.

In the Telugu states, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan enjoy a substantial fan following, particularly in Hyderabad. Hrithik, too, endeared himself to the Telugu audience through films like Dhoom 2 and Krissh. However, other Bollywood stars have struggled to establish a connection with Telugu viewers.

The advance booking figures for Animal in the Telugu states are exceptional, hinting that Ranbir Kapoor may finally garner a significant fan base in the region. Moreover, the endorsement from star celebrities such as Mahesh Babu and SS Rajamouli has brought Ranbir Kapoor closer to the Telugu mass audience.

Historically, the top non-Telugu film openings in the Telugu states are as follows:

1. KGF2: ₹28 crores
2. 2Point0: ₹18 crores
3. Leo: ₹16 crores
4. Kabali: ₹13 crores
5. Jawan: ₹12 crores

Considering the robust advance bookings, Animal stands a strong chance of securing a spot in the top three. If the content receives an overwhelmingly positive response, there is potential for Animal to claim the coveted position of the number one non-Telugu film of all time in the Telugu states.