Bollywood’s upcoming Eid 2025 release Sikandar is making headlines for two reasons—its explosive scale and its controversial lead pairing. With Salman Khan (59) and Rashmika Mandanna (28) cast opposite each other, the film sparked immediate conversation about the 31-year age gap between the stars.
While some social media users and critics have voiced frustration over Bollywood’s continued trend of older male actors romancing much younger female leads, others see it as a commercially viable, “fresh pairing” worth exploring. Salman’s fans, in particular, have dismissed the age discourse, highlighting his timeless appeal and star power. Rashmika, on the other hand, brings youthful energy and a massive fan following of her own, making this combo a calculated risk—and one that’s working when it comes to generating buzz.
What We Know About Sikandar
Directed by AR Murugadoss and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, Sikandar is being crafted as a high-voltage action drama with strong emotional undercurrents. Salman is expected to play a character that blends patriotism with power, packed with signature action sequences. Rashmika’s role, contrary to assumptions, is not just ornamental—sources suggest her character is integral to the story and brings emotional complexity to the narrative.
This marks the first collaboration between Salman and Rashmika, and also reunites the superstar with Murugadoss, raising expectations sky-high. From set designs to international action choreography, every aspect of the film is being handled on a grand scale, promising a cinematic spectacle for all audiences.
Poster Breaks Records, Classic Song Gets A Reprise
The film’s first-look poster, released on Eid 2024, featured Salman soaring mid-air on a motorbike, surrounded by fire and chaos—classic Bollywood action with a stylish twist. The poster went viral within hours and broke digital records, becoming the most-shared Bollywood motion poster of the year.
But Sikandar isn’t just about adrenaline; it’s also bringing back old-school romance. The film will feature a reimagined version of the iconic “Lag Ja Gale”, originally sung by Lata Mangeshkar. This reprise version is expected to carry a haunting, romantic tone and will reportedly play during a key emotional moment between the leads. It’s a bold move that bridges nostalgic Bollywood charm with modern storytelling.
Box Office Clash With Raid 2 Raises Stakes
Eid 2025 won’t just be about Sikandar—it’s also when Ajay Devgn’s Raid 2 is set to release. This sets up one of the biggest box office clashes of the year, pitting two superstar-led franchises against each other. While Raid 2 promises a gritty, content-driven narrative, Sikandar aims for scale, sentiment, and pure mass appeal. Trade analysts expect fireworks at the box office as both films battle for dominance. Despite the age gap chatter, Sikandar is already winning in the buzz department.
With record-breaking promotions, a nostalgic musical twist, and a proven director at the helm, the film has all the ingredients for a mega-hit. Whether it silences the critics or fuels more conversation, Sikandar is undeniably one of 2025’s most anticipated releases.