The first half of 2025 has proven to be a strong one for Bollywood, with total national box office collections nearing an impressive Rs 5,000 crore—a 27 % increase year-on-year. Yet beneath the headline figures lies a nuanced reality: a few blockbuster hits are lifting the market, while mid‑budget and smaller films continue to struggle for attention.
Chhaava: The Undisputed Champion
Vicky Kaushal’s historical drama Chhaava has emerged as the standout success, earning approximately Rs 601 crore net in India—translating to a worldwide gross of around Rs 800 crore. Its powerful emotional core has clearly struck a chord with audiences, making it Bollywood’s top grosser of 2025 so far.
Big Star Vehicles: Hits and Misses
Housefull 5, starring Akshay Kumar, collected over Rs 236 crore worldwide, entering the Rs 100 crore club domestically in just four days.
Raid 2, featuring Ajay Devgn, secured its place among the top three Hindi films with a global haul between Rs 222–243 crore.
Sikandar, led by Salman Khan, clocked in around Rs 176–177 crore worldwide—respectable but underwhelming considering its scale.
Emotional Storytelling Still Resonates
Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par, post its June 20 release, has amassed over Rs 120 crore in just ten days. Paired with Chhaava’s success, these emotional dramas underscore audiences’ appetite for sincerity over spectacle, even as formulaic blockbusters continue to perform.
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The Mid‑Budget Crunch
Despite the growth in total box office revenues, trade experts remain cautious. They point out that medium‑ and small‑budget films have not garnered the same returns, and that sustainable momentum depends on freeing up audience mindshare from OTT options.
Bollywood is heading into the second half of 2025 on a high note, with financials looking healthy.
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