Will Sunny Deol’s Jaat Perform Better Than Salman Khan’s Sikander?
Updated on: 09 April, 2025 08:37 PM IST |Amruta Karulkar

Sunny Deol From Jaat
Following the monumental success of Gadar 2 in 2023, which saw Sunny Deol reclaim his throne as a box office titan, all eyes are now fixed on his latest action-packed offering, Jaat. Set for release on April 10, 2025, the film arrives amidst a challenging period for Bollywood, marked by the underperformance of big-ticket films like Salman Khan`s Sikandar. As anticipation builds, industry experts weigh in on whether Deol can once again energise the box office.
Promoted as a massy action drama rooted in themes of honour and justice, Jaat seems tailor-made for Sunny Deol`s powerful screen presence. The film, directed by South filmmaker Gopichand Malineni and featuring Randeep Hooda in a negative role, marks Deol`s first pan-India release. Experts believe this familiar territory is exactly what Deol`s loyal fanbase desires. Film exhibitor Akkshay Rathie notes, "His audience is expecting Sunny Deol-ness out of Sunny Deol... If you give them what they like, they will lap it up."
Also Read: Randeep Hooda Undergoes a Menacing Transformation for His Upcoming Film Jaat
However, the current market reality, highlighted by Sikandar`s struggles, cannot be ignored. Joginder Tuteja provides perspective: "People should not expect another Gadar 2... So even if Jaat takes a 10 cr opening, it will be huge... To get a double-digit opening... in the current market situation is a big deal." Despite the caution, optimism prevails. Rathie predicts, "I expect the film to do 50 to 70 crores in the worst-case scenario."
As Jaat gears up for release, it represents more than just another film; it`s a test of whether old-school star power can reignite a sluggish box office. While experts are positive about Deol`s pull and the film`s commercial sensibilities, the ultimate verdict rests with the audience. With a strong lineup including Border 2 and Lahore 1947 ahead, Sunny Deol`s resurgence seems set to continue, but Jaat`s performance will be a crucial indicator.
Also Read: Sikandar Shows Cancelled In Several Cinemas, Replaced With L2 Empuraan
Riding the Gadar 2 Wave
Sunny Deol`s return in Gadar 2 wasn`t just a hit; it was a phenomenon, grossing over 500 crore and reaffirming his status as a beloved action hero. The success has inevitably set high expectations for Jaat. Acknowledging this, Deol himself admitted the weight of anticipation, stating in a recent interview, “Post Gadar 2, there’s obviously pressure.” Advance bookings for Jaat show promise, collecting Rs 94.53 lakh gross from nearly 50,000 tickets across over 10,000 shows, indicating significant fan interest, even if modest compared to some regional giants.Promoted as a massy action drama rooted in themes of honour and justice, Jaat seems tailor-made for Sunny Deol`s powerful screen presence. The film, directed by South filmmaker Gopichand Malineni and featuring Randeep Hooda in a negative role, marks Deol`s first pan-India release. Experts believe this familiar territory is exactly what Deol`s loyal fanbase desires. Film exhibitor Akkshay Rathie notes, "His audience is expecting Sunny Deol-ness out of Sunny Deol... If you give them what they like, they will lap it up."
Also Read: Randeep Hooda Undergoes a Menacing Transformation for His Upcoming Film Jaat
Expert Takes: Stardom vs. Market Slump
While Gadar 2`s success was partly fuelled by nostalgia, experts believe Deol`s enduring appeal remains potent. Trade analyst Komal Nahta states, “Sunny Deol had a bad patch, but after Gadar 2, he is at the top of his game once again... He is loved by the audience.” Rathie adds, "He has stardom which is built over decades."However, the current market reality, highlighted by Sikandar`s struggles, cannot be ignored. Joginder Tuteja provides perspective: "People should not expect another Gadar 2... So even if Jaat takes a 10 cr opening, it will be huge... To get a double-digit opening... in the current market situation is a big deal." Despite the caution, optimism prevails. Rathie predicts, "I expect the film to do 50 to 70 crores in the worst-case scenario."
As Jaat gears up for release, it represents more than just another film; it`s a test of whether old-school star power can reignite a sluggish box office. While experts are positive about Deol`s pull and the film`s commercial sensibilities, the ultimate verdict rests with the audience. With a strong lineup including Border 2 and Lahore 1947 ahead, Sunny Deol`s resurgence seems set to continue, but Jaat`s performance will be a crucial indicator.
Also Read: Sikandar Shows Cancelled In Several Cinemas, Replaced With L2 Empuraan
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