Bollywood's Biggest Disappointments: When Star Power Failed to Save the Day at the Box Office
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The Indian film industry experienced a mixed bag of results in 2025, with several big-budget releases, led by A-list stars, struggling to find their footing at the box office. Despite high expectations and massive marketing campaigns, movies like Sikandar, War 2, Son of Sardaar 2, Baaghi 4, and Emergency failed to impress audiences. The biggest disappointments were Salman Khan's Sikandar and Hrithik Roshan's War 2. Sikandar, made on a budget of ₹200 crore, grossed around ₹182.7 crore worldwide, barely breaking even. War 2, with a reported budget of ₹400 crore, managed only ₹179 crore net in its Hindi version. Other big names, including Ajay Devgn and Kangana Ranaut, also faced setbacks with their respective films. Even in the South, Mohanlal's ambitious pan-Indian project Vrusshabha failed to impress, grossing a mere ₹2.04 crore worldwide and being pulled from screens within six days. So, what went wrong? The answer lies in changing viewer habits and a growing emphasis on content quality and originality. Audiences today prioritize engaging stories, strong narratives, and well-crafted plots over mere star power. The rise of OTT platforms has also led to a shift in viewing habits, with audiences becoming choosier about which films to watch in theatres. Even superstar-led films are not immune to these changes. Hrithik Roshan and Salman Khan publicly addressed the struggles of their films, offering a rare glimpse into the pressures of high-profile releases. Despite these setbacks, 2025 also saw several success stories, including Saiyaara and Chhaava, which proved that quality content can still conquer at the box office. The industry's response to these high-profile flops is clear: star power may open doors, but it's compelling content and audience connection that keep viewers in theatres. As the industry continues to evolve, it's clear that the days of relying solely on star power are numbered.
