Mahesh Babu’s Khaleja Triumphs in Historic Theatre Comeback
Updated on: 03 June, 2025 06:29 PM IST |Sudheesh SK
Mahesh Babu’s Khaleja Triumphs in Historic Theatre Comeback
Superstar Mahesh Babu’s Khaleja, which didn’t find success during its original release, is now rewriting history with its re-release. Directed by Trivikram Srinivas, the film returned to theatres on May 30, 2025, and the day 1 response has been nothing short of sensational.
Now, Khaleja has achieved what no other re-release has done before. It is now the all-time biggest re-release, the all-time highest-grossing re-release, and the first Telugu re-release to cross $100K at the US box office. A film once underrated is now proudly rewriting its legacy.
Fans across the globe celebrated like never before, with packed theatres, special shows, and non-stop celebrations. The day 1 worldwide gross has touched Rs. 8 crore, a staggering number for a re-released film.
Featuring Anushka Shetty and supported by Trivikram Srinivas’s powerful storytelling, Khaleja is at last receiving the recognition it truly deserves. With this momentum in place, it will be exciting to see how far this second chance will go.
Why Khaleja Has Become a Timeless Classic
While Khaleja is not without its imperfections, several elements have made it memorable over time. Mahesh Babu’s role as Alluri Seetharama Raju, a modest taxi driver, feels both fresh and relatable. His impeccable comic timing, clever one-liners, and natural demeanor add a lively charm to the character. Even in the film’s more intense moments, he remains convincingly in character. The film’s catchphrase “Bhayya!” has since become a beloved part of popular culture.
The humor in Khaleja is woven naturally into the narrative, enriching the story instead of feeling like an add-on. One notable example is the chase sequence involving Govardhan, which skillfully blends tension with quirky humor, offering a unique and entertaining experience.
Director Trivikram Srinivas also infused the film with profound philosophical themes centered on divinity, faith, and life’s purpose. At the film’s success meet, he explained the story’s core idea: “After the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna lived as a regular man, endured hardship, and was forgotten by the world, yet his divine teachings remain timeless. Similarly, when an auto driver saves a life, he becomes a god for that moment to that person. Our hero embodies this concept.” This thoughtful narrative took time for audiences to fully grasp and appreciate.
Trivikram’s hallmark dialogues elevate the film, with lines such as “Gaali velu chusthundi” (The wind will show the way) and “Nela vollu virucukuntundi sidda” (The earth will tear open its skin, Sidda) being admired not only for their meaning but also for their poetic richness.
Also Read : 7 Blockbuster`s of Mahesh Babu - Radio City
Over the years, discussions on social media, in-depth analysis videos, and multiple re-watches have drawn renewed attention to Khaleja’s other merits including Mani Sharma’s music, as well as the film’s cinematography and production design.
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