The much-anticipated theatrical release date announcement of Rajinikanth and Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Coolie has officially confirmed a massive box office showdown with Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR’s War 2. Both big-budget action films are now set to release on August 14, 2025, kicking off an intense battle for Independence Day weekend dominance.
War 2 Locks Its Date First—Then Coolie Joins the Race
While War 2 was initially rumored to target an August 14 release, Yash Raj Films later confirmed the date, marking it as a strategic move to cash in on the holiday season. In response, the Coolie team explored alternative dates, but eventually decided to stick with the high-stakes holiday slot, making their announcement on Saturday, April 5. With both films now locked in, the stage is set for one of the biggest clashes in Indian box office history.
Box Office Battlelines Drawn
While War 2 is expected to dominate in the Hindi-speaking belt, it might face tough competition in the Southern markets, especially Telugu states, where Rajinikanth’s massive fan base and Lokesh Kanagaraj’s direction give Coolie a significant edge.
Meanwhile, Coolie, starring the Tamil superstar, will enjoy strong traction in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, setting up an intense turf war across regions.
Hrithik Roshan Opens Up About War 2 and Jr. NTR
At a recent event in Atlanta, USA, Hrithik Roshan confirmed the August 14 release and shared his excitement about War 2, calling it “bigger and better than Part 1.” When asked about his experience working with Jr. NTR, he said:
“We have just one song left to shoot with NTR. I’m nervous—he’s simply amazing. I’m extremely proud of War 2.”
He also mentioned NTR as his favorite co-star, further raising expectations for their dynamic on-screen chemistry.
Two Titans. One Weekend.
With Rajinikanth vs Hrithik-NTR locked in, Coolie vs War 2 is shaping up to be a historic box office clash. This Independence Day, cinephiles across India are in for a treat, as two of the country’s biggest stars go head-to-head in what could be the most talked-about movie weekend of 2025.
