The unprecedented box office storm created by the film 'Dhurandhar' is sending shockwaves through the Hindi film industry, leading to a significant reshuffling of the release calendar for 2025 and 2026. The film's colossal success has prompted several major production houses to reconsider their strategic plans, opting to steer clear of its formidable path and that of its upcoming sequel.
The Domino Effect Begins
The first major casualty of this cinematic reshuffle was the film 'Ikkis', which promptly moved its release to January 1, 2026. This move set off a chain reaction, with other big-ticket projects following suit. The ripple effect is most pronounced around the release of 'Dhurandhar Part 2' on March 19, 2026. To avoid a direct confrontation, highly anticipated films like 'Love & War' and 'Alpha' have been pushed back from their original slots.
More Delays on the Horizon
The disruption is far from over. Industry reports suggest that two other significant films are likely to join the list of postponed releases. Emraan Hashmi's 'Awarapan 2' and Akshay Kumar's 'Bhooth Bangla' are also evaluating new dates. According to sources, the makers are actively seeking alternative windows to ensure their films get adequate breathing space and screen share in the crowded marketplace.
Why 'Bhooth Bangla' and 'Awarapan 2' Are Moving
The decision for these delays is strategic. 'Bhooth Bangla', Akshay Kumar's horror-comedy directed by Priyadarshan, was originally slated for an April 2 release. However, the makers chose to postpone it to avoid not just 'Dhurandhar Part 2' but also the release of Yash's 'Toxic'. Similarly, 'Awarapan 2', which was scheduled for April 3, is being reconsidered. The team behind the sequel, starring Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani, and Shabana Azmi, is keen to capitalize on the strong emotional recall of the original 2007 film and wants to give it a solo release opportunity for maximum impact.
The plot of 'Bhooth Bangla' revolves around claiming a haunted mansion named Acharya Niwas and battling a dark spirit linked to witchcraft, spanning from the 1950s to the present. 'Awarapan 2', directed by Nitin Kakkar, promises a mix of emotional action and drama, staying true to Vishesh Films' signature style of thrillers centered on sacrifice and freedom.
This massive calendar shift underscores the sheer dominance of the 'Dhurandhar' franchise at the box office. It reflects a cautious approach by studios who are now prioritizing a clear runway for their substantial investments over a risky clash with an established juggernaut. The Bollywood release schedule for 2026 is being rewritten, one postponed date at a time.
