“Kalki 2898 AD,” a highly anticipated Indian science fiction film, has made a thunderous entry into the box office arena, crossing the ₹200 crore mark in India within just three days of its release. Directed by Nag Ashwin and produced by the renowned production house Vyjayanthi Movies, the film stars an ensemble cast led by Prabhas, along with Bollywood legends Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani.
This ambitious project, with an estimated budget of ₹600 crore, was poised to become a significant cinematic event even before its release. The film’s success is a testament to its grand scale, compelling narrative, and the star power of its cast, making it one of the most talked-about films in recent times.
Before its release, “Kalki 2898 AD” generated massive buzz and achieved substantial pre-release business. The sale of theatrical rights alone grossed ₹180 crore in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with significant contributions from regions like Nizam, Ceeded, Uttar Andhra, East Godavari, West Godavari, Guntur, Krishna, and Nellore.
The North Indian market added ₹85 crore, while the Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala markets contributed ₹25 crore, ₹16 crore, and ₹6 crore respectively. Additionally, the film secured ₹70 crore from the overseas market. In total, the worldwide pre-release business was valued at an impressive ₹382 crore.
Day 1 to Day 3: A Box Office Phenomenon
The film’s release was nothing short of a cinematic spectacle. On its opening day, “Kalki 2898 AD” recorded massive collections, thanks to strong advance bookings and immense anticipation. The robust start was further bolstered by positive word-of-mouth and favorable reviews, which praised the film’s visual effects, narrative depth, and stellar performances. By the end of its first day, the film had already set a high benchmark for subsequent collections.
On Day 2, the momentum continued, with audiences flocking to theaters in large numbers. The film’s appeal extended across various demographics, pulling in both Prabhas’ loyal fans and a broader audience attracted by the film’s high production values and intriguing premise. By the end of the second day, “Kalki 2898 AD” had crossed significant milestones in key markets.
Day 3 saw a continued surge in box office collections, with the film officially crossing the ₹200 crore mark in India. This achievement is a remarkable feat, highlighting the film’s widespread acceptance and the effective marketing strategies employed by the production team. The combined power of a stellar cast, a well-crafted narrative, and high production values played a crucial role in this success.
Cast and Crew: The Pillars of Success
The film’s ensemble cast has been a major draw for audiences. Prabhas, known for his roles in the “Baahubali” series, brings his star power and acting prowess to the role of Kalki. Amitabh Bachchan, a stalwart of Indian cinema, adds gravitas to the project with his powerful screen presence. Kamal Haasan, another legend in the industry, contributes his immense talent and experience. Deepika Padukone and Disha Patani bring their own star appeal and deliver strong performances that complement the film’s narrative.
Behind the camera, Nag Ashwin’s vision and direction have been instrumental in bringing this ambitious project to life. His ability to blend science fiction elements with compelling storytelling has been widely praised. The production values, special effects, and cinematography are all top-notch, contributing to the film’s immersive experience. The music, composed by the talented Mickey J Meyer, adds another layer of depth to the film, enhancing its emotional and dramatic beats.
Marketing and Promotion: Creating the Hype
The marketing campaign for “Kalki 2898 AD” was as grand as the film itself. From eye-catching posters and teasers to elaborate promotional events, every aspect was designed to generate maximum buzz. The trailer, released amid much fanfare, set the tone for what audiences could expect – a visually stunning, epic tale set in a dystopian future.
The producers leveraged social media platforms effectively, engaging with fans and building anticipation through interactive content and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
Promotional tours featuring the star cast further amplified the film’s visibility. Interviews, television appearances, and public events kept the film in the public eye, ensuring that it remained a topic of discussion leading up to its release. This comprehensive promotional strategy played a significant role in drawing audiences to theaters in large numbers.
Audience Reception and Critical Acclaim
The audience reception for “Kalki 2898 AD” has been overwhelmingly positive. Viewers have lauded the film for its ambitious scale, gripping narrative, and high-quality visual effects. The performances of the lead actors, particularly Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan, have been singled out for praise. The film’s portrayal of a dystopian future, combined with its intricate plot and emotional depth, has resonated with audiences across different demographics.
Critics have also responded favorably, with many highlighting the film’s innovative approach to science fiction within the Indian cinema context. The seamless integration of special effects with the narrative has been commended, as has the film’s ability to maintain a balance between action, drama, and emotional storytelling. The positive reviews have contributed to the film’s strong box office performance, encouraging more viewers to experience it in theaters.
The Future of “Kalki 2898 AD”: Sustaining the Momentum
With such a strong start, the future looks bright for “Kalki 2898 AD.” The film’s continued success will depend on its ability to maintain audience interest and draw repeat viewers. Word-of-mouth and sustained promotional efforts will be crucial in ensuring that the film continues to perform well in the coming weeks.

The film’s digital streaming rights have already set a new benchmark, with platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video securing the rights for a record-breaking ₹375 crore. This deal not only adds to the film’s financial success but also ensures that it will reach a global audience, further expanding its impact. The combination of theatrical success and strong digital presence positions “Kalki 2898 AD” as a significant player in the global film industry.
“Kalki 2898 AD” stands as a landmark achievement in Indian cinema, showcasing the potential of Indian filmmakers to create world-class science fiction narratives. The film’s box office success, crossing ₹200 crore in just three days, is a testament to its wide appeal and the effective combination of star power, storytelling, and high production values.
As it continues to captivate audiences and garner critical acclaim, “Kalki 2898 AD” paves the way for future projects of similar ambition and scale. It highlights the importance of innovative storytelling and the power of a well-executed marketing strategy in achieving cinematic success. With its impressive performance, “Kalki 2898 AD” has set a new standard for Indian science fiction films and established itself as a cultural phenomenon that will be remembered for years to come.