Khaleja Re-Released in 4K: Mahesh Babu Fans Create History
Mahesh Babu’s Khaleja draws big crowds as 4K version re-releases in theatres, shattering Telugu re-release pre-sale records.
image for illustrative purpose
Fourteen years after its initial release, Khaleja has made a powerful comeback. The 2010 Telugu fantasy-action-comedy, directed by Trivikram Srinivas and starring Mahesh Babu and Anushka Shetty, is back in theatres with a digitally remastered 4K version. This re-release has sparked widespread excitement among audiences, both in India and overseas.
The film returned to cinemas officially on May 30, with special premiere shows conducted a day earlier on May 29. The anticipation translated into strong box office numbers. By Wednesday evening in North America, Khaleja had earned $51,058 (approximately Rs 43 lakh) from 96 screenings, demonstrating Mahesh Babu’s consistent global appeal, particularly among Telugu-speaking audiences abroad.
Back in India, the advance bookings for the re-release exceeded Rs 3.5 crore in gross collections. These figures set a new benchmark for Telugu cinema, making it the highest-grossing pre-sale total ever for a re-released film. The previous record was held by Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire, which had collected Rs 3 crore on its re-release debut.
While Khaleja saw a mixed reception during its original run in 2010, the film's re-emergence highlights its long-standing cult status. Fans are now embracing the opportunity to watch it again, this time with Dolby Atmos sound and enhanced visuals. The refreshed version has been met with positive turnout, indicating strong public interest in well-curated re-releases.
Trade analysts note that the timing of Khaleja's return is strategic. Mahesh Babu is currently in pre-production for a much-anticipated collaboration with director SS Rajamouli, alongside co-stars Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran.
