Ghosts, Magic, and Grandparents: Inside the Supernatural World of ‘The Raja Saab’!

The Raja Saab Box Office: Prabhas’ Horror-Comedy Hits ₹201 Crore Worldwide

The "Rebel Star" has taken the 2026 Sankranti season by storm. Directed by Maruthi, The Raja Saab has officially crossed the ₹201 crore worldwide gross milestone by its fourth day. Despite a competitive holiday window and polarized critical reviews, the film’s massive opening weekend has solidified its status as a commercial powerhouse.

From its record-breaking 41,000 sq. ft. haveli set to the "Vintage Prabhas" charm, here is everything you need to know about this spiritual action-drama.

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The Raja Saab Synopsis: A Battle of Bloodlines

The story follows Raju (Prabhas), a happy-go-lucky young man who lives a quiet life caring for his grandmother, Gangamma (Zarina Wahab). Gangamma suffers from Alzheimer’s but remains obsessed with one memory: her husband, Kanakaraju (Sanjay Dutt), an exiled sorcerer who vanished decades ago.

Raju’s quest to find his grandfather leads him to a notorious ancestral mansion in the forests of Narsapur. However, the search takes a dark turn when he discovers that Kanakaraju is not a victim, but a malevolent master of the dark arts who has orchestrated a supernatural trap.

To save his family and the women he loves, Raju must delve into a metaphysical realm, tapping into a "mighty inner strength" to engage in a high-stakes "battle of minds" and out-hypnotize the ultimate evil.

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The Star-Studded Cast of ‘The Raja Saab’

The film features a massive pan-India ensemble, blending veteran talent with rising stars:

• Prabhas as Raju / The Raja Saab: In a dual-shaded role, Prabhas returns to his comedic roots while delivering heavy-duty action.
• Sanjay Dutt as Kanakaraju: The primary antagonist, an evil sorcerer with a lust for immortality.
• Malavika Mohanan as Bhairavi: Making her big Telugu debut as a key ally in Raju's quest.
• Nidhhi Agerwal as Bessy: A devout woman who becomes one of Raju's central romantic interests.
• Riddhi Kumar as Geeta: Raju’s confidante from his village.
• Boman Irani as Dr. Padmabhushan: A renowned psychologist and paranormal expert.
• Zarina Wahab as Gangamma: Raju’s doting grandmother.
• Yogi Babu & Brahmanandam: Providing the film's signature horror-comedy relief.

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Plot Summary: A Haunted Legacy

The Raja Saab centers on Raju (Prabhas), a young man with a rebellious spirit who lives with his grandmother, Gangamma (Zarina Wahab).

• The Mission: Gangamma, who suffers from Alzheimer's, is obsessed with finding her missing husband, Kanakaraju (Sanjay Dutt).
• The Twist: Raju’s search leads him to a massive, 41,000 sq. ft. ancestral haveli in the Narsapur forest. There, he discovers that his grandfather practiced dark arts and exists as a malevolent ghost seeking rebirth.
• The Climax: The film culminates in a high-stakes "battle of minds" and supernatural showdowns, blended with Maruthi’s signature comedy.

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Why It’s Trending: "Vintage Prabhas" and Added Scenes

Following early feedback from the opening day, director Maruthi made a strategic move to boost repeat viewership:

1. The "Aged Look" Addition: Amidst fan criticism that the "old-man" get-up shown in trailers was missing, the makers officially added an 8-minute sequence featuring Prabhas in his "Raja Saab" persona to theaters starting Sunday evening.
2. Genre Blending: While critics panned the "messy screenplay," fans have praised the return of "Darling Prabhas"—celebrating his comedic timing and screen presence which reminiscent of his pre-Baahubali hits.
3. Sequel Buzz: The film concludes with a teaser for a sequel titled The Raja Saab 2: Circus 1935, which is already generating massive hype on social media.

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Box Office Breakdown: Day 4 Highlights

As of January 13, 2026, The Raja Saab is showing strong global legs despite a typical post-weekend dip.

• Worldwide Gross: ₹201 Crore+
• India Net Collection: ~₹114.6 Crore
• Overseas Powerhouse: The film is a certified hit in North America, surpassing $3.5 million in just 96 hours.
• The "Monday Test": The film saw a sharp decline on Monday (Day 4), netting approximately ₹6.6 crore in India, but it remains the top choice for Sankranti moviegoers.

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The Road Ahead: Challenges & Competition

With a staggering reported budget of ₹350–400 crore, The Raja Saab needs to sustain its momentum throughout the week. It currently faces:

• Internal Competition: Stiff rivalry from Chiranjeevi’s Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu.
• New Releases: Ravi Teja’s Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi and Naveen Polishetty’s Anaganaga Oka Raju are entering the fray this week.

The Raja Saab Box Office: Prabhas’ Spiritual Action-Drama Hits ₹200 Crore Mark in 4 Days!

The "Rebel Star" is back at the center of a box office storm. Prabhas’ latest venture, The Raja Saab, has officially crossed the ₹201 crore worldwide gross milestone as of its fourth day. Directed by Maruthi, the film blends high-octane action with spiritual and horror-comedy elements, marking a significant departure from the actor’s recent "larger-than-life" mythological roles.

Despite facing a competitive Sankranti 2026 window, the film's strong opening weekend has propelled it into the elite 200-crore club, even as it navigates a challenging "Monday test."

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The Raja Saab Day 4 Worldwide Collection Report

According to trade analysts and official trackers, The Raja Saab maintained its grip over the weekend before seeing a natural weekday dip.

• Total Worldwide Gross: ₹201 Crore+ (Reported)
• India Net Collection: ~₹114.6 Crore
• Day 4 Update: The film earned approximately ₹6.6 crore net in India on Monday, reflecting a sharp 65% drop from its Sunday peak but showing resilience in its primary Telugu markets.

The Global Reach

While the Telugu version continues to be the powerhouse, the film’s overseas performance has been exceptional, particularly in North America, where it surpassed $3.5 million in its first four days.

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Why ‘The Raja Saab’ is Winning with Audiences

While critics have offered mixed reviews regarding the film's lengthy runtime, fans are celebrating what they call the return of "Vintage Prabhas."

1. The ‘Vintage Prabhas’ Charm

After a string of intense roles in Kalki 2898 AD and Salaar, The Raja Saab allows Prabhas to showcase his comedic timing and effortless swag. Fans have particularly praised the 8-minute "Aged Look" sequence, which was reportedly enhanced digitally following early feedback.

2. Spiritual Horror-Comedy Blend

Director Maruthi has tapped into a unique "Spiritual Action-Drama" niche. The film explores themes of royal heritage and supernatural forces, anchored by a massive 41,000 sq. ft. haveli set—the largest indoor set in Indian cinema history.

3. A Powerhouse Ensemble

The presence of Sanjay Dutt as the antagonist and veteran Boman Irani has added significant pan-India appeal, helping the film sustain interest in the Hindi-speaking belts.

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The Sankranti Clash: Facing Competition

The film is currently battling for screens against other major holiday releases:

• Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu: The Chiranjeevi-starrer is providing stiff competition in the Nizam region.
• Upcoming Releases: Ravi Teja’s Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi and Naveen Polishetty’s Anaganaga Oka Raju are slated to release this week, which may impact The Raja Saab's screen count.

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Impact on Prabhas’ Career Trajectory

With The Raja Saab crossing the ₹200 crore mark so quickly, Prabhas continues his streak of massive openers. However, with a reported budget of nearly ₹350–400 crore, the film will need a steady "long tail" performance throughout the January holidays to achieve hit status.

What’s Next?

A sequel titled Rajasaab Circus 1935 is already in the works, where Prabhas is expected to play a dual role involving his "grandfather" character from the first film.

Hamnet Stuns: The 2026 Golden Globes Upset!

The 83rd Golden Globe Awards, held on January 11, 2026, delivered a night of cinematic history, marked by a stunning upset in the Drama category and a total sweep by one of Hollywood's most acclaimed directors. Hosted by Nikki Glaser for the second year in a row, the ceremony solidified the 2026 award season's frontrunners.

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Hamnet Pulls Off the Upset of the Year

In the night's most talked-about moment, Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet claimed the trophy for Best Motion Picture – Drama. While Ryan Coogler’s Sinners had been the heavy favorite leading into the night, Zhao’s intimate Shakespearean tragedy—produced by Steven Spielberg—won over the voters.

The film's momentum was bolstered by Jessie Buckley, who won Best Actress in a Drama for her devastating portrayal of Agnes Hathaway. In her acceptance speech, Buckley praised the "extraordinary vulnerability" required to bring the story of Shakespeare’s lost son to life.

Paul Thomas Anderson’s Historic Sweep

While Hamnet took the drama prize, Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another was the night’s overall dominant force. The film took home:

• Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy
• Best Director (Paul Thomas Anderson)
• Best Screenplay (Paul Thomas Anderson)
• Best Supporting Actress (Teyana Taylor)

Anderson became only the second filmmaker in Golden Globes history to sweep the Director, Screenplay, and Picture (as a producer) categories in a single night.

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2026 Golden Globe Winners: At a Glance

Category	Winner	Project
Best Picture – Drama	Hamnet	Focus Features
Best Picture – Musical/Comedy	One Battle After Another	Warner Bros.
Best Actor – Drama	Wagner Moura	The Secret Agent
Best Actress – Drama	Jessie Buckley	Hamnet
Best Actor – Musical/Comedy	Timothée Chalamet	Marty Supreme
Best Actress – Musical/Comedy	Rose Byrne	If I Had Legs I'd Kick You
Best Animated Feature	KPop Demon Hunters	Netflix
Best Drama Series	The Pitt	HBO Max
Best Comedy Series	The Studio	Apple TV
Best Limited Series	Adolescence	Netflix

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Television Highlights: Netflix and HBO Max Lead

The television categories saw a surge of new hits. Noah Wyle took home Best Actor in a Drama for his return to the medical genre in The Pitt, while Netflix's gritty crime drama Adolescence dominated the limited series field with four total wins, including a win for Stephen Graham.

The Road to the 2026 Oscars

The Globes have officially turned the 2026 Oscar predictions on their head. With Hamnet beating Sinners, the Best Picture race is now a three-way fight between Hamnet, One Battle After Another, and the late-surging Marty Supreme.

The Shock of the Globes: How Chloé Zhao’s ‘Hamnet’ Toppled ‘Sinners’!

Chloé Zhao’s ‘Hamnet’ Stuns at 2026 Golden Globes: Why the ‘Sinners’ Upset Changes Everything!

The 83rd Golden Globe Awards concluded with a shockwave that has recalculated the entire 2026 awards season. While Ryan Coogler’s vampire epic Sinners entered the night as the heavy favorite, it was Chloé Zhao’s intimate Shakespearean drama, Hamnet, that walked away with the night’s most prestigious prize: Best Motion Picture – Drama.

This victory marks a pivotal moment for Zhao, who continues to solidify her legacy as a master of humanistic storytelling, and places Hamnet at the forefront of the upcoming 98th Academy Awards race.

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The Upset of the Year: ‘Hamnet’ vs. ‘Sinners’

Heading into the Beverly Hilton on January 11, 2026, all eyes were on Warner Bros.’ Sinners. With its massive box office success and critical acclaim, many expected a sweep. However, the Hollywood Foreign Press (now under its expanded voting body) favored the lyrical, hauntingly beautiful adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s bestseller.

• The Verdict: Hamnet took home the top drama prize.
• The Competition: Defeated front-runners included Sinners, Frankenstein, and The Secret Agent.
• The Producer’s Touch: Legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg, who co-produced the film, praised Zhao onstage, stating: "There was only one filmmaker on the planet who could tell the story of the spirits of the earth and the forest, and that was Chloé Zhao."

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Why ‘Hamnet’ Won: A Masterclass in Grief and Genius

Unlike traditional biopics, Hamnet focuses on the domestic life of William Shakespeare (played by Paul Mescal) and his wife Agnes (Jessie Buckley). The film’s strength lies in its shift of perspective, centering on Agnes and the devastating loss of their son, Hamnet, which eventually inspires the creation of Hamlet.

1. Jessie Buckley’s Career-Defining Performance

The win for Best Motion Picture – Drama was preceded by Jessie Buckley winning Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama. Her portrayal of Agnes Shakespeare—a woman with a supernatural connection to nature—is being hailed as the performance of the year.

2. Chloé Zhao’s Visual Poetry

Zhao, who previously won for Nomadland, used her signature naturalistic style to bring Elizabethan England to life.¹² Critics have noted that her "verdant" and "ethereal" direction turned a period piece into a timeless exploration of human resilience.

3. A Resonant Narrative

In a year of blockbusters, Hamnet resonated because of its emotional vulnerability. During her speech, Zhao quoted lead actor Paul Mescal, saying: "Being an artist is learning to be vulnerable enough to allow ourselves to be seen for who we are."

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Impact on the 2026 Oscar Race

With the Golden Globe win, Hamnet has officially moved from "prestige contender" to "the one to beat."

Category	Golden Globe Result	Oscar Prediction
Best Picture	WON	Front-runner
Best Director	Nominated	Top 3 Contender
Best Actress	WON	Heavy Favorite (Buckley)
Best Adapted Screenplay	Nominated	Likely Winner

 

While Sinners still holds strong in technical categories (winning the Globe for Best Original Score and Cinematic/Box Office Achievement), the momentum for the "Big Five" Oscar categories has shifted toward Zhao's camp.

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Other Notable Winners at the 83rd Golden Globes

While Hamnet stole the headlines, the night was a celebration of diverse storytelling:

• Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy: One Battle After Another (Dir.¹⁶ Paul Thomas Anderson)
• Best Actor (Drama): Wagner Moura (The Secret Agent)¹⁷
• Best Animated Film: KPop Demon Hunters¹⁸
• Best TV Series (Drama): The Pitt¹⁹

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Final Thoughts

The 2026 Golden Globes proved that high-concept blockbusters like Sinners can coexist with intimate, soul-searching dramas like Hamnet. As we head into the BAFTAs and the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, all eyes remain on Chloé Zhao and her "Shakespearean upset."

Ayub Khan: The Subtle Maestro of the Silver and Small Screen!

In an industry often defined by loud performances and fleeting stardom, Ayub Khan represents the quiet power of consistency. Carrying the legacy of one of cinema’s most prestigious families, Ayub has spent over three decades proving that he is much more than just a famous nephew. From his start as a romantic lead in the 90s to his current status as a pillar of Indian television, his career is a masterclass in professional evolution.

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The Legacy of the "Khan" Household: Early Life

Born on February 23, 1969, in the heart of Mumbai, Ayub’s life was scripted for the arts before he ever stepped onto a film set.

• A Royal Connection: His mother was Begum Para, the legendary "pin-up queen" of the 1940s who challenged the era’s conventions with her bold style.
• The Dilip Kumar Link: His father, Nasir Khan, was an actor and the brother of the "Tragedy King," Dilip Kumar. Growing up in the shadow of such a monumental figure gave Ayub an innate understanding of the "naturalistic" style of acting.
• Personal Resilience: Married to the celebrated costume designer Niharika Khan for many years, Ayub has navigated the highs and lows of the limelight with a rare, understated dignity, focusing on his craft rather than the tabloid cycle.

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From "Chocolate Boy" to Dramatic Powerhouse

Ayub Khan’s filmography reflects the changing tides of Bollywood—from the musical romance of the 90s to the gritty realism of the early 2000s.

The Rise of a Romantic Hero

Ayub entered the scene with Mashooq (1992), but it was Salaami (1994) that turned him into a national heartthrob. The film’s music became the anthem of a generation, and Ayub’s clean-cut, earnest persona filled a vital gap in the industry.

The Prakash Jha Collaborations

Perhaps his most significant work came when he collaborated with director Prakash Jha. In Mrityudand (1997), Ayub delivered a nuanced performance as the husband of Madhuri Dixit, holding his own against powerhouse performers like Shabana Azmi. He later reunited with Jha for the hard-hitting Gangaajal (2003), reinforcing his reputation as a "serious" actor.

Iconic Character Turns

Even in smaller roles, Ayub left a mark. Whether it was playing the jilted fiancé in the cult-favorite Dil Chahta Hai (2001) or a soldier in the ensemble war drama LOC: Kargil (2003), he brought a sense of grounded reality to every frame.

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The Television Renaissance: 2008–2026

While many of his contemporaries faded away, Ayub Khan reinvented himself as a titan of the Indian small screen. He didn't just join television; he dominated it.

• The "Jogi Thakur" Phenomenon: In the mega-hit series Uttaran, his portrayal of the righteous yet flawed patriarch became a cultural touchstone. He became the face of the "ideal Indian father" for millions of viewers.
• The Suave Antagonist: In Ek Hasina Thi, he flipped his image entirely to play a polished, high-society villain, proving his range was far wider than the industry had initially assumed.
• Modern Maturity (Current Work): As of 2026, Ayub has successfully moved into the OTT (Streaming) space. He is currently earning rave reviews for his role in a gritty political thriller series on a major streaming platform, playing a veteran diplomat—a role that perfectly suits his seasoned, intellectual aura.

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Why Ayub Khan Remains a Relevant Icon

Ayub Khan’s longevity can be attributed to three key factors:

1. Versatility: He seamlessly transitioned from a lead actor to a character artist without losing his screen presence.
2. Lack of Typecasting: He can play a humble villager, a corrupt politician, or a high-ranking military officer with equal conviction.
3. Technique: His acting style—often characterized by soft-spoken delivery and expressive eyes—echoes the legendary "Dilip Kumar school of acting" while remaining uniquely his own.

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Career Highlights at a Glance

• Salaami (1994): Established his musical and romantic credentials.
• Mrityudand (1997): Proved his mettle in high-stakes social drama.
• Dil Chahta Hai (2001): A memorable role in a genre-defining film.
• Uttaran (2008-2015): Solidified his status as a television legend.
• 2026 Projects: Currently headlining high-concept digital dramas.

Style, Spies, and Superstars: The Unforgettable Filmography of Babita!

The Queen of 60s Glamour: A Deep Dive into Babita’s Cinematic Legacy!

Babita Kapoor (née Shivdasani) is much more than just a former Bollywood actress; she is a symbol of 1960s glamour and a formidable matriarch who single-handedly steered the most famous film dynasty in India into the modern era. In a career that lasted less than a decade, she delivered numerous box-office hits and established herself as a fashion trailblazer before stepping away at the height of her fame.

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Biography: Early Life and Heritage

Born on April 20, 1948, in Mumbai (some sources cite 1947 in Karachi), Babita was born into a Sindhi family with deep cinematic roots.

• Family Background: Her father, Hari Shivdasani, was a prominent character actor. She is the first cousin of the legendary actress Sadhana, who was one of the biggest stars and style icons of the 1960s. Her mother was British Christian, Barbara Shivdasani.
• The Kapoor Union: On November 6, 1971, Babita married Randhir Kapoor, the eldest son of showman Raj Kapoor. Following the then-strict tradition of the Kapoor household, she retired from acting after her marriage to focus on her domestic life.
• A Fierce Mother: After separating from Randhir in the late 1980s, Babita raised her two daughters, Karisma Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan, as a single mother. She famously broke family tradition by encouraging her daughters to enter the film industry, effectively paving the way for the "Kapoor girls" to dominate Bollywood.

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Filmography: A Golden Streak (1966–1973)

Babita’s career was short but incredibly impactful, consisting of only 19 films, nearly all of which were commercial successes.

The Rise to Fame

She made her debut in the successful comedy Dus Lakh (1966). However, it was the suspense thriller Raaz (1967), opposite Rajesh Khanna, that made her a household name. She quickly became the preferred leading lady for the era's biggest superstars.

Major Career Hits

• Farz (1967): A spy thriller opposite Jeetendra that remains a cult classic.
• Kismat (1968): Known for its evergreen music, specifically the song "Aao Huzoor Tumko."
• Haseena Maan Jayegi (1968): A massive hit where she starred opposite Shashi Kapoor.
• Pehchan (1970): A romantic drama alongside Manoj Kumar.
• Kal Aaj Aur Kal (1971): A landmark film that featured three generations of the Kapoor family (Prithviraj, Raj, and Randhir) and marked the beginning of her real-life romance with Randhir.

Final Appearances

Her final few films included Jeet (1972) and Ek Hasina Do Diwane (1972). She officially bid farewell to the silver screen with Sone Ke Haath (1973).

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The Style Icon of the 60s

Babita was a pioneer of the "Go-Go" era in India. She is credited with popularizing:

• Tight Churidar Kurtas: Which became a staple for college-going girls in the 70s.
• Oversized Sunglasses: Often referred to as "Go-Go glasses."
• Hoop Earrings: A trend that has seen multiple revivals over the decades.

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Legacy and Impact

Babita's influence on the film industry is most visible through her daughters. By resisting the patriarchal norms of the time, she ensured that Karisma and Kareena became the first women from the Kapoor family to act in films, forever changing the family's narrative.

Today, as of 2026, she maintains a dignified, private profile, often seen at family gatherings with her grandchildren. Her journey remains a powerful story of professional success, personal resilience, and the relentless drive to secure a legacy for the next generation.