Excitement is reaching new heights in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana as plans are being drawn to organize over 500 early morning shows for the upcoming film WAR 2. If approved, these shows could start as early as 5 AM on the release day, making it one of the most aggressive and enthusiastic rollouts for a Bollywood film in the Telugu-speaking regions.
The Telugu theatrical rights for WAR 2 have been acquired by Sithara Entertainments for a reported ₹80 crore. The production house is now actively coordinating with distributors and multiplex chains across both states to facilitate the unprecedented number of early screenings. The primary reason behind this move is Jr NTR's pivotal role in the film, as his fan base in Andhra and Telangana guarantees massive footfall from the early hours.
Jr NTR's popularity is not new to such openings. His previous film Devara saw a massive number of shows some even beginning at 1 AM making it the second-highest opening day performer after RRR. That benchmark has inspired exhibitors to attempt something similar for WAR 2, even though it is not a straight Telugu film.
Directed by Ayan Mukerji and backed by Yash Raj Films, WAR 2 also stars Hrithik Roshan and is part of the studio’s expanding Spy Universe, which previously delivered hits like Pathaan and Tiger 3. With two powerful stars Hrithik and Jr NTR leading the cast, the film promises to be a high-octane action spectacle aimed at pan-India audiences.
While enthusiasm is high among fans and distributors alike, the execution of these early morning shows still hinges on getting the necessary permissions from state governments. Early morning screenings require special approvals under cinema regulations in both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Despite the pending approval, logistical arrangements have already begun. Theater owners are readying their facilities, ticketing platforms are preparing to handle a rush, and fans are already trending hashtags on social media expressing their excitement for what could be a record-breaking release.
Slated to hit the screens on August 14th, WAR 2 may just become the first Hindi film to create such massive pre-dawn hype in South India. Whether it sets a new record depends on final permissions, but the groundwork for a massive opening day has clearly been laid.