With all the cinematic glitz that comes with an Eid release, Sikandar promised to be a grand spectacle. Directed by the seasoned A.R. Murugadoss and led by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, the film seemed poised to dominate the box office. But when expectations ride sky high, the fall can be equally dramatic—and Sikandar proved to be just that.
Released: March 30, 2025 (Eid al-Fitr)
Directed by: A.R. Murugadoss
Starring: Salman Khan, Rashmika Mandanna
Music by: Pritam
OTT Release: Netflix, May 25, 2025
Plot Summary
Sikandar centers around Sanjay Rajkot, a revered and compassionate king who goes by the name Sikandar. His peaceful reign is shattered when his wife, Saisri (played by Rashmika Mandanna), is assassinated by a corrupt minister. In a poignant twist, Saisri donates her organs to three individuals in Mumbai before her death.
However, the story takes a darker turn when the villain—intent on destroying anything linked to Sikandar—targets the organ recipients. Thus begins Sikandar’s quest, not only to protect these innocent lives but also to bring justice to his wife’s memory.
Visuals, Music & Performances
Visually, the film is grand. The production design reflects the royal backdrop with impressive sets and sweeping cinematography. Pritam’s music adds emotional and energetic layers, with a few songs that may linger with audiences even after the credits roll.
Salman Khan delivers his trademark larger-than-life performance. While fans of the actor may find joy in his on-screen charisma, critics argue that his presence alone couldn’t salvage the film's deeper issues.
Critical Reception
Despite the hype, Sikandar opened to largely negative reviews. Critics pointed to a weak storyline, underdeveloped characters, and an overreliance on star power. The Times of India gave the film a mere 2 out of 5 stars, citing its lackluster narrative and average action sequences.
Reviewers from outlets like The Movie Blog and Good Film Hunting were harsher, calling it an “overhyped tale that never really understood its own emotional core.” They criticized the writing for lacking authenticity, particularly in how it handled grief and vengeance.
Box Office & Streaming
Financially, the film underperformed. Despite the festive release and a heavyweight star cast, Sikandar managed to gross around ₹176–177 crore worldwide—falling short of the expectations typically set for a Salman Khan Eid blockbuster.
However, the film is expected to reach a wider audience when it premieres on Netflix on May 25, 2025. The digital release may offer a second wind, particularly among fans who missed it in theaters.
Final Thoughts
Sikandar had all the ingredients for a hit—star power, a dramatic plot, a celebrated director, and festive timing. But storytelling is still king in cinema, and that’s where this royal saga stumbled. For Salman Khan fans, the film might still hold some entertainment value. For others, it serves as a reminder that even the biggest stars need a solid script to shine.
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