Ek Tha Tiger to Batla House, a look at biggest worldwide Bollywood grossers released on Independence Day, Stree 2 to surpass all

Stree 2

Bollywood has a long-standing tradition of releasing major films on Independence Day, August 15, to take advantage of the holiday and the patriotic fervor that surrounds it. Over the years, several films released on this date have not only performed exceptionally well at the box office but have also become some of the highest-grossing films worldwide. Let’s take a look at the top five Bollywood films that have made a significant impact globally when released on Independence Day.

Ek Tha Tiger (₹320 Cr)

The highest-grossing Independence Day release to date is Ek Tha Tiger starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif. Released in 2012, this action-packed thriller directed by Kabir Khan was produced by Yash Raj Films. The movie follows the story of an Indian spy, Tiger (played by Salman Khan), who falls in love with a Pakistani spy during a mission. The film’s intriguing plot, high-octane action sequences, and the star power of Salman Khan ensured it became a massive success. Ek Tha Tiger not only dominated the Indian box office but also garnered significant collections overseas, making it the top Independence Day release with a worldwide gross of ₹320 crore.

Mission Mangal (₹290 Cr)

Mission Mangal released in 2019, is a film that blends science, patriotism, and entertainment. Directed by Jagan Shakti, this film is based on the true story of India’s Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), which was launched by ISRO in 2013. The ensemble cast, led by Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan, and Taapsee Pannu, played a significant role in the film’s success. Mission Mangal struck a chord with the audience, as it showcased the determination and intelligence of Indian scientists. The film’s compelling narrative and its appeal across different age groups helped it gross ₹290 crore worldwide, making it the second-highest Independence Day grosser.

Singham Returns (₹216 Cr)

In 2014, Rohit Shetty returned with the much-awaited sequel to Singham titled Singham Returns. This film, starring Ajay Devgn as the tough cop Bajirao Singham, was a perfect Independence Day release with its themes of justice and patriotism. The film received positive reviews for its action sequences, direction, and Ajay Devgn’s powerful performance. The combination of mass appeal and action-packed sequences helped *Singham Returns* achieve a worldwide gross of ₹216 crore, securing its place as the third-highest-grossing Bollywood film released on Independence Day.

Gold (₹158 Cr)

Gold released in 2018, is a sports drama that revolves around India’s first Olympic gold medal as a free nation in 1948. Directed by Reema Kagti and starring Akshay Kumar in the lead role, the film takes the audience back to a time when India was establishing its identity on the global stage. Akshay Kumar’s portrayal of a determined coach who leads his team to victory resonated well with the audience. The historical significance of the story, coupled with stellar performances and patriotic themes, helped *Gold* to gross ₹158 crore worldwide, making it the fourth-biggest Independence Day release.

Batla House (₹127 Cr)

Batla House, released in 2019, is a gripping action thriller based on the controversial Batla House encounter that took place in Delhi in 2008. Directed by Nikkhil Advani, the film stars John Abraham as a dedicated police officer who finds himself in the middle of a political and media storm following the encounter. The film’s realistic portrayal of events, combined with John Abraham’s intense performance, attracted a significant audience. *Batla House* grossed ₹127 crore worldwide, making it the fifth-highest-grossing Bollywood film released on Independence Day.

Anticipation for Stree 2

stree 2

While these five films have set the benchmark for Independence Day releases, there is significant buzz around the release of Stree 2 which is expected to surpass them all. The horror-comedy, starring Shraddha Kapoor, has generated immense anticipation, and early predictions suggest it could become the biggest Independence Day grosser yet. The success of its predecessor, *Stree*, combined with the growing popularity of the horror-comedy genre in India, has fans and critics alike eagerly awaiting its release.