Overview

• Rishab Shetty’s prequel released in theaters on October 2 following paid premieres on October 1 in parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
• Written, directed and headlined by Shetty, the film expands the franchise with a mythic, pre-colonial tale rooted in Daiva traditions.
• Critics and early audiences report overwhelmingly positive responses, highlighting production design, visual effects and standout set pieces including a tiger sequence and the finale.
• Trade coverage cites roughly Rs 20 crore in advance bookings, with the film entering the Dussehra window alongside competitors like Idli Kadai and Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari.
• Some viewers note a slower first half even as word-of-mouth favors the second half, industry voices like producer Naga Vamsi laud Shetty’s work, and early Mumbai turnout was lighter due to heavy rain.