Mahesh Babu’s cult classic Khaleja, originally released in 2010 and directed by Trivikram Srinivas, has made a spectacular return to theaters in a stunning remastered 4K version. This revival is captivating audiences both in India and abroad, showcasing the film’s lasting appeal.

The re-release has already shattered records with remarkable pre-sales, driven by Mahesh Babu’s devoted fan base. This momentum sets the stage for what promises to be a successful run in cinemas.

Celebrating a Timeless Classic

Even after 14 years, Khaleja maintains a loyal following. Co-starring Anushka Shetty, this fantasy-action-comedy is back on the big screen, just as Mahesh Babu prepares for his highly anticipated project with SS Rajamouli, featuring Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran. Fans are reliving the excitement of his earlier work.

Record-Breaking Pre-Sales

The film officially hits theaters on May 30, with special night shows scheduled for May 29. By early evening on May 29, Khaleja had already grossed an impressive US $51,058 (Rs 43 lakh) from 96 locations in North America, underscoring Mahesh Babu’s strong following among the Telugu diaspora.

Back in India, the response has been phenomenal, with advance sales surpassing Rs 3.50 crore domestically, marking a record for pre-sales of a re-release in Telugu cinema history. Previously, the highest re-release day one figure was Rs 3 crore from Prabhas’s Salaar: Part 1- Ceasefire.

Nostalgia Meets Modern Presentation

The excitement surrounding Khaleja is not merely nostalgic. Known for its quirky humor, memorable dialogues, and Mahesh Babu’s effortless charm, the film has achieved cult status over the years, despite a mixed box office performance during its original release. Fans are eager to experience the magic of Mahesh Babu and Trivikram Srinivas’ collaboration on the big screen, especially in its newly remastered 4K and Dolby Atmos sound format.

Implications for the Industry

This enthusiastic response demonstrates that classic titles, when re-released with effective marketing and presentation, can still attract audiences and set new records. The timing is particularly advantageous as Mahesh Babu gears up for his next venture with SS Rajamouli, a project already generating significant buzz prior to its official launch.

As the weekend approaches, industry experts anticipate that Khaleja’s re-release will maintain its strong performance both domestically and internationally, highlighting Mahesh Babu’s enduring star power and the timeless appeal of well-crafted Telugu entertainment.