Prabhas’ highly anticipated horror-comedy The Raja Saab is set for a pan-India release on January 9, 2026, with advance bookings already crossing USD 1 million internationally.
The Telugu-language film has been generating significant buzz, particularly following revelations about its popular track ‘Nache Nache’ and recent updates from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
Prabhas Reveals Origin of ‘Nache Nache’ Song
In a recent interaction with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Prabhas disclosed that the viral song ‘Nache Nache’ was his personal choice. The Baahubali star revealed that the track is one of his favourite songs, and he personally insisted that director Maruthi include it in The Raja Saab. Director Maruthi previously clarified that the song would not appear during the end credits, contrary to earlier assumptions.
CBFC Grants U/A 16+ Certificate with Minor Modifications
The Raja Saab has received a U/A 16+ certificate from the CBFC with two modifications. According to reports, the certification board requested changes to a scene depicting blood being washed on the floor, which was modified to monochrome (black and white). Additionally, a beheading scene was shortened by 4 seconds. The film’s final runtime stands at 189 minutes, approximately 3 hours and 9 minutes.
Sandeep Reddy Vanga Reveals Massive Rs 400 Crore Budget
During a promotional video, Sandeep Reddy Vanga disclosed that The Raja Saab was produced on a budget of Rs 400 crore. This places the film in the same league as other big-budget productions like RRR, War 2, and Sikandar. Vanga teasingly mentioned the film’s scale, saying it features a big set, three heroines, songs, and was reportedly completed in 40 days.
Record-Breaking International Advance Bookings
The Raja Saab has already crossed USD 1 million in international advance bookings, according to recent reports. The collection includes territories such as the UK, US, Australia, and the Middle East, indicating strong anticipation for the film’s release.
Plot and Cast Details
The Raja Saab follows a young man (Prabhas) determined to reclaim his ancestral property—an old, abandoned cinema theatre named Raja Deluxe. The story takes a supernatural turn as dark paranormal secrets surface, blending humour with horror. The film features a strong ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt as the antagonist, alongside Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, Riddhi Kumar, Boman Irani, and Zarina Wahab.
Director Maruthi’s Assurance to Fans
Written and directed by Maruthi, The Raja Saab is produced by People Media Factory and IVY Entertainment. At the pre-release event, director Maruthi assured Prabhas fans that the film would meet expectations without compromise. The horror-comedy fantasy marks a refreshing genre shift for Prabhas, who appears in a playful yet eerie avatar.
Pan-India Release in Five Languages
The Raja Saab will release across India in five languages: Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam. The film represents a departure from Prabhas’ recent mythological and period films, showcasing him in a new, contemporary horror-comedy avatar.
The Raja Saab releases in theatres on January 9, 2026, coinciding with the Sankranthi festival weekend, positioning it for a strong box office opening.
