Pawan Kalyan’s latest action thriller, They Call Him OG, hit theaters worldwide on September 25, 2025, creating massive buzz among fans and critics alike. Despite a last-minute court order suspending ticket price hikes in Telangana, early reports suggest the film is on track for a record-breaking opening day collection exceeding 100 crore rupees, driven by strong advance bookings and positive word-of-mouth.
Massive Opening Day Buzz
The film opened to packed houses across India, with special premieres starting as early as September 24 in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Fans lined up outside theaters from midnight, turning the release into a festive event complete with chants and posters of the star.
Directed by Sujeeth, the movie marks Pawan Kalyan’s return to the screen after his political commitments delayed production. Shooting wrapped up in July 2025, and the multilingual release in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam has broadened its appeal.
Early screenings reported high energy, with audiences cheering during action sequences. Industry trackers note that pre-sales alone crossed 50 crore rupees globally, setting a new benchmark for non-sequel films in Telugu cinema.
Fan Reactions and Reviews Pour In
Social media exploded with praise shortly after the first shows. Viewers highlighted Pawan Kalyan’s intense performance as Ojas Gambheera, a gangster seeking revenge after a decade in hiding.
Critics and fans alike appreciated the film’s gripping storyline, which revolves around a Mumbai underworld clash. One common highlight was the chemistry between Pawan Kalyan and Emraan Hashmi, who makes his Telugu debut as the ruthless antagonist Omi Bhau.
Mixed opinions emerged on pacing, with some calling the second half an elevation-packed ride, while others felt emotional depth could have been stronger. Overall, ratings averaged around 4 out of 5 stars from initial user reviews on platforms like IMDb and BookMyShow.
- Fans loved the opening sequence featuring an edited version of Emraan Hashmi’s classic song Jhalak Dikhla Ja, blending nostalgia with high-octane action.
- Action scenes received special mentions for their stylish choreography and Thaman S’s thumping background score.
- Priyanka Mohan’s role as the female lead added a layer of romance, though some wished for more screen time.
A theatergoer shared online that crowds erupted in tears during emotional peaks, underscoring Pawan Kalyan’s star power.
Box Office Predictions and Records
Analysts predict OG could shatter opening day records, potentially surpassing 150 crore rupees worldwide on day one, fueled by strong performances in Telugu states and overseas markets.
Despite no major hit streak for Pawan Kalyan recently, the film’s hype has outpaced expectations. Advance bookings on BookMyShow showed over 25,000 tickets sold per hour on release morning, topping trends.
| Region | Estimated Day 1 Collection (in Crores) | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Telugu States | 60-70 | Fan frenzy, premieres |
| Rest of India | 20-30 | Multilingual release |
| Overseas | 20-25 | Diaspora support |
| Total | 100-125 | Pre-sales boost |
This table reflects early estimates from trade sources, with actual figures likely to climb as walk-ins increase. Compared to Pawan Kalyan’s past films like Hari Hara Veera Mallu, OG shows a 30 percent jump in initial sales.
The movie’s success could influence upcoming Telugu releases, especially with stars like Allu Arjun facing competition.
Challenges and Controversies
A major hurdle came when the Telangana High Court suspended the approved ticket price increase just hours before release. This decision aimed to keep prices affordable but sparked worries about revenue loss.
Producers argued the hike was needed for a big-budget film, yet theaters adapted quickly, maintaining full occupancy. Another twist involved the film Mirai voluntarily pulling screens to accommodate OG, a move seen as respect for Pawan Kalyan’s stature.
Political angles added intrigue, as Pawan Kalyan plans a break from acting to focus on his role as a leader in Andhra Pradesh. Supporters view the film as a timely boost to his public image amid recent elections.
Despite these issues, the film’s momentum remains unbroken, proving Pawan Kalyan’s enduring appeal.
Cast Performances Steal the Spotlight
Emraan Hashmi’s villainous turn has been a standout, with fans calling it dominating and intense. His Telugu entry brings a fresh dynamic to the genre.
Supporting actors like Arjun Das, Sriya Reddy, and Prakash Raj add depth, while cinematography by Ravi K. Chandran and Manoj Paramahamsa enhances the visual spectacle.
Pawan Kalyan’s portrayal of the titular OG has been described as a one-man show, blending mass appeal with dramatic flair.
As OG continues to draw crowds, its blend of action, drama, and star power positions it as a potential blockbuster. Share your thoughts on the film in the comments below, and let others know if it lived up to the hype.
