“Kalki AD 2898”: A mythological sci-fi spectacle set to transform cinema
As “Kalki AD 2898,” the most anticipated pan-Indian release, gears up for its global debut tomorrow, it has already made a massive impact with pre-sales exceeding Rs 20 crore in India alone. The mythological science fiction film has achieved an impressive milestone by selling over a million tickets in the US and more than 2,000 in India. In a significant move, ticket prices have soared to Rs 2300 in select theaters in Andhra Pradesh on the first day, reflecting the immense anticipation and fan craze surrounding the film.
The movie is set to premiere in multiple languages including Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and English, across major Tier 1 cities such as Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and New Delhi. While IMAX screenings in Mumbai are priced at a premium of Rs 2300, ticket costs vary significantly across the country. Single-screen theaters are offering tickets between Rs 100 and Rs 150, whereas multiplexes have priced tickets from Rs 250 to Rs 400. The differential pricing strategy highlights the diverse audience base and the varied cinematic experience offered by different theater formats.
“Kalki AD 2898” – the epic mythological sci-fi hitting screens worldwide tomorrow.
“Kalki AD 2898” is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the protagonist, Lord Vishnu’s 10th avatar Kalki, emerges to end the turmoil of Kali Yuga. The film boasts an ensemble cast including Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani, with Santhosh Narayanan’s music enhancing the epic narrative. Directed by Nag Ashwin, the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic but resumed in July 2021 at Hyderabad’s futuristic Ramoji Film City. With a production budget of ₹600 crore (US$72 million), it stands as the most expensive Indian film to date.
The strategic pricing and the choice of release formats, including IMAX and 3D, are aimed at maximizing audience engagement and box office returns. The film’s scale and the involvement of a stellar cast are likely to set a new benchmark for Indian cinema in terms of production value and global appeal.