Over the past few years, pan India films led by top stars have clearly shown that makers are no longer afraid of adult certification. Films like Salaar, Animal, and Dhurandhar went ahead with A certificates without dilution. Despite restricted entry for viewers under 18, these films still earned massive box office numbers, proving that strong content can override censor certificate concerns.
However, this strategy came with a limitation. In multiplexes especially, A certificate films block family audiences and children, which naturally caps footfall. That situation is unlikely to repeat this Sankranti. Most festival releases this time are designed as family entertainers and are expected to secure either U or U A certificates, opening the doors to all age groups.
For The Raja Saab, the horror elements may result in a U/A certificate, which still allows children and families. Trade circles believe this will work in the film’s favor during the holiday season. Mana Shankara Varaprasad Garu is expected to get a clean U certificate, while Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi may settle for U/A due to heroines’ glamour and romantic elements. Anaganaga Oka Raju and Naari Naari Naduma Murari are also firmly positioned as family friendly entertainers. The dubbed film Jana Nayagan, being a remake of Bhagavanth Kesari, is not seen as a major threat in this race.
With December turning out to be another damp squib for the Telugu industry, Sankranti has become crucial for producers, distributors, and exhibitors. Ticket pricing, premiere permissions, and screen allocation still need clarity, but the timing works in favor of the films. School and college holidays begin from January 10, and theatre owners are expecting heavy family crowds. Even decent word of mouth could be enough for these films to post healthy numbers and give the industry a much-needed festive revival.
