Exclusive: Showcasing Deadlock Continues For The RajaSaab As PIC Chain Bookings Remain On Hold Ahead Of Release

As we informed earlier, the showcasing tussle continues, and this is not the first time the industry is witnessing such a situation in recent weeks. Earlier, a similar issue was seen with JanaNayagan. However, with JanaNayagan now officially postponed, the focus has completely shifted to The RajaSaab, which is now facing its own set of showcasing challenges.

Even with the release scheduled for tomorrow, January 9, bookings are still not fully open across the Hindi belt. At present, single screens, non national multiplexes, and smaller independent chains have already started advance sales. However, PIC chain multiplexes and major national chains are yet to open shows, and this delay is clearly impacting overall visibility in key markets.

Initially, Hyderabad faced a different hurdle altogether. The delay there was due to a disagreement between the makers and the Telangana government regarding ticket pricing. That issue has now largely been resolved after legal intervention, and an official government order is expected shortly. Once that comes through, bookings in Hyderabad are likely to begin immediately.

Now, the current roadblock is purely a showcasing and negotiation issue. The discussions are centered around future release commitments and screen allocations. Multiplex chains are hesitant to lock in terms due to the upcoming clash between Toxic and Dhurandhar 2. With Dhurandhar 2 expected to open big and its first part still performing strongly in cinemas, exhibitors are being extremely cautious before committing to any long term showcasing agreements.

This hesitation has resulted in a temporary deadlock, keeping bookings on hold at major chains even as release day approaches. However, industry circles believe this issue should be sorted out shortly, as neither exhibitors nor distributors benefit from holding back advance sales at the last moment.

Meanwhile, the ground response is already speaking loudly. Paid previews that began on January 8 evening have shown excellent occupancy across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, excluding Hyderabad. Advance bookings for January 9 in these regions are moving at a rapid pace, clearly indicating strong audience interest.

Once bookings open in Hyderabad and PIC chain multiplexes come on board, The RajaSaab is expected to gain massive momentum instantly. Despite the hurdles, everything points towards a strong and impactful opening, especially in the Telugu version, backed by solid ground-level demand and strong audience buzz.