Salman Khan, the king of Bollywood’s Eid releases, is back with another high-energy action film, Sikandar. Released on March 30, 2025, the movie hit over 5,000 screens in India and 3,500 screens worldwide across 115+ countries.
With Salman Khan’s undeniable star power like Shah Rukh Khan, Sikandar aims to be a mass entertainer packed with action, emotions, and a gripping storyline.
However, mixed reviews, an online leak, and an experimental release strategy have created an unpredictable path for the film. Will the movie live up to the expectations? Let’s dive deep into its storyline, cast, production, music, controversies, and box office performance.
Sikandar Movie Release Strategy: A Bold Move
Unlike traditional Friday releases of Nadaaniyan, Salman Khan’s Sikandar opted for a Sunday premiere, mirroring the strategy of Salman’s previous film, Tiger 3. The goal? To maximize holiday viewership and boost opening-day numbers.
However, despite this strategy, bookings for the film didn’t match the levels of Salman Khan’s earlier hits like Tiger 3. The movie also faced an unexpected setback—a piracy leak just hours before release, which might impact its overall box office earnings.
Movie Plot: Action, Emotion, and a Fight for Justice
The film follows Sanjay Rajkot, also known as Sikandar, a powerful figure in Rajkot, Gujarat. His life takes a heartbreaking turn when his wife, Saisri, a painter, is killed in a bomb attack. In her final moments, she pledges to donate her organs, leading to their transplantation in Mumbai.
Determined to find the recipients, Sanjay embarks on a journey that turns into a battle against corruption and injustice.
The narrative blends high-octane action with deep emotional layers, making it more than just another action-packed Salman Khan movie. Director A.R. Murugadoss confirms that it is an original story, debunking rumors of it being a remake.
Star Cast: A Powerful Ensemble
Salman Khan as Sikandar (Sanjay Rajkot)
Salman Khan delivers another power-packed performance, balancing intense action with emotional depth. His portrayal of a man dealing with personal loss while fighting corruption is both gritty and heartfelt.
Rashmika Mandanna as Saisri Rajkot
Marking her first collaboration with Salman Khan, Rashmika plays Sikandar’s Love of Life, a painter whose death sets the film’s events in motion. The age gap between the two actors was a talking point, but Salman dismissed concerns with his characteristic wit.
Salman Khan, co-stars and Cast Members
- Kajal Aggarwal as Vaidehi Ranga
- Sathyaraj as Minister Pradhan (Main Antagonist)
- Sharman Joshi as Amar, Sikandar’s trusted aide
- Prateik Babbar as Arjun Pradhan, the minister’s son
- Jatin Sarna as De Niro, a taxi driver
- Sanjay Kapoor and Nawab Shah in supporting roles
The diverse cast features Bollywood and South Indian cinema talents, ensuring a broad appeal across different regions.
Direction and Production
A.R. Murugadoss’ Return to Bollywood
After hits like Ghajini and Holiday, A.R. Murugadoss makes his Bollywood comeback, bringing his signature action-packed storytelling style.
Sajid Nadiadwala: The Producer Behind the Vision
The film marks Sajid Nadiadwala’s reunion with Salman Khan after Kick (2014). With a budget of ₹200 crore, Sikandar is one of the costliest Bollywood productions ever. A massive ₹165-180 crore was already recovered through non-theatrical rights, making it a commercially smart investment.
Cinematic Appeal: Shooting Locations & Visuals
The film was shot across Mumbai and Hyderabad, featuring:
- Dharavi & Matunga (Mumbai): Intense combat sequences
- Taj Falaknuma Palace (Hyderabad): Regal backdrop for key scenes
- Train Action Sequences: Adding an authentic touch to the action
Originally planned for Portugal and Europe, some locations were later adjusted for budget and logistical reasons.
Sikandar-Salman-Khan
Music & Background Score: A Hit or Miss?
The music of the film is composed by Pritam, with background scoring by Santhosh Narayanan. The film features four songs:
- Zohra Jabeen
- Bam Bam Bhole
- Sikandar Naache
- Hum Aapke Bina
While fans appreciated the energy in Bam Bam Bhole, some critics found the songs forgettable. The mix of Bollywood-style melodies and South Indian influences was an attempt to appeal to a pan-Indian audience.
Controversies & Challenges
Online Piracy Leak
Just hours before its theatrical release, it was leaked online, raising concerns about its box office impact.
Salman Khan’s Watch Controversy
During promotions, Salman wore a Ram Janmabhoomi-themed watch, which sparked controversy. Some Muslim clerics labeled it “haram”, leading to media debates.
Salman Khan’s Injury
Salman suffered a rib injury while filming an action scene, adding to the film’s production challenges.
Sikandar vs. Salman Khan’s Past Films
Box Office Comparison
| Year | Film | Genre | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Tiger 3 | Action, Thriller | Hit |
| 2023 | Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan | Action, Comedy | Average |
| 2019 | Dabangg 3 | Action, Comedy | Semi-Hit |
| 2017 | Tiger Zinda Hai | Action, Thriller | Blockbuster |
The Film fits into Salman Khan’s action film lineup, but its emotional depth may give it a different appeal.
Box Office Predictions
With Salman Khan’s strong fan base, it has the potential to dominate the box office despite piracy concerns. The film’s extended Eid holiday window could boost collections.
Factors That Could Make Sikandar a Hit:
Salman Khan’s Stardom
High-Action Sequences
Emotional Storyline
Eid Holiday Viewership
Factors That Could Hurt Its Performance:
Online Piracy
Overused Action Tropes
Should You Watch This Film?
If you’re a Salman Khan fan, the movie delivers everything you love—powerful action, larger-than-life fights, and emotional drama. However, if you’re expecting something groundbreaking, the movie might feel predictable.
For action lovers and Bollywood fans, it is an entertaining watch, packed with mass-appeal moments that Salman Khan excels at delivering.
Conclusion
Sikandar is more than just another Salman Khan action film; it’s a mix of action, emotions, and a gripping personal journey. While the film’s fate at the box office remains uncertain, its massive scale, star power, and strategic release give it a fighting chance.
For those who love Salman Khan’s action-packed Eid releases, the Film is a must-watch. Whether it breaks box office records or not, one thing is sure—Salman Khan knows how to keep his audience entertained!