
The buzz surrounding Raid 2, the much-awaited sequel to the 2018 hit Raid, has reached fever pitch, and the early numbers are in: the film is off to a stellar start at the box office. With advance bookings for its opening day grossing an impressive ₹2.4 crore, Raid 2 is shaping up to be a major contender in the action-thriller genre.
Starring Ajay Devgn in his gritty, no-nonsense avatar, the film promises high-octane action, gripping drama, and a story that resonates with audiences. Let’s break down the advance booking data, analyze what it means, and predict how Raid 2 might perform on its opening day.
Advance Booking Breakdown: A Strong Start
According to the latest data (excluding blocked seats), Raid 2 has racked up a gross of ₹2,399,3034.67 (approximately ₹2.4 crore) in advance bookings for its first day in the Hindi 2D format across India. Here’s a detailed look at the numbers:
Tickets Sold: 94,396
Average Ticket Price (ATP): ₹228
Number of Shows: 7,195
Gross Collection: ₹2.4 crore
These figures indicate robust pre-release interest, particularly in urban centers and multiplexes, where Ajay Devgn’s films typically enjoy a loyal fanbase. The 7,195 shows scheduled nationwide reflect a wide release strategy, ensuring accessibility across tier-1, tier-2, and even tier-3 cities. The ATP of ₹228 suggests a healthy mix of premium and standard-priced tickets, pointing to strong demand in metro markets where ticket prices are higher.
For context, advance booking numbers in the ₹2-3 crore range are typically seen for films with significant pre-release hype, especially in the action or masala genres. Raid 2’s numbers are comparable to recent hits like Singham Again or War, though those films benefited from larger franchise appeal and holiday release windows. Given that Raid 2 is a sequel to a well-received but relatively grounded thriller, its advance booking performance is a promising sign.
Why Raid 2 Is Generating Buzz?
The original Raid (2018) was a sleeper hit, earning praise for its taut narrative, Ajay Devgn’s commanding performance as income tax officer Amay Patnaik, and its engaging take on corruption and justice. The sequel, directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, promises to up the ante with a bigger scale, more intense action sequences, and a fresh storyline that retains the gritty realism of the first film. Ajay Devgn’s return as the fearless tax officer, coupled with a strong supporting cast, has fueled anticipation.
The film’s marketing campaign has also played a key role. High-energy trailers, impactful posters, and strategic promotions across social media platforms like X have kept Raid 2 in the spotlight. Posts on X highlight fans’ excitement, with many praising Devgn’s intense screen presence and the film’s promise of “double the action, double the drama.” The lack of major competing releases on its opening day further strengthens its position, allowing Raid 2 to dominate screens and audience attention.
Opening Day Box Office Prediction
Based on the advance booking data and market trends, Raid 2 is well-positioned for a strong opening day at the Indian box office. Here’s why:
Advance Booking Momentum:
The ₹2.4 crore advance gross is a solid foundation. For comparison, films with similar advance figures often see their opening day collections multiply by 5-7 times, driven by walk-in ticket sales, especially during evening and night shows.
Ajay Devgn’s Star Power:
Devgn has a proven track record in action-driven films like Singham and Drishyam. His fanbase, particularly in North India and single-screen markets, ensures consistent footfalls.
Genre Appeal:
Action-thrillers tend to perform well across urban and mass markets, especially when backed by a compelling story. The Raid brand carries goodwill, which should translate into positive word-of-mouth.
Show Count and Release Scale:
With over 7,000 shows, Raid 2 has the screen space to maximize collections, even in smaller towns where Devgn’s films resonate strongly.
Taking these factors into account, Raid 2 is expected to collect ₹15-18 crore on its opening day at the Indian box office. This estimate assumes a healthy surge in on-the-day bookings, particularly in the evening, and positive initial audience reactions. If the film exceeds expectations and garners strong reviews, it could push closer to the ₹20 crore mark, though that would require exceptional walk-in numbers in mass circuits.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the outlook is optimistic, a few factors could influence Raid 2’s performance:
Audience Reception:
The original Raid succeeded due to its tight storytelling and relatable themes. If Raid 2 delivers a compelling narrative and avoids the pitfalls of over-the-top action, it could sustain its momentum beyond the opening day.
Competition:
With no major releases clashing directly, Raid 2 has a clear runway for its opening weekend. However, upcoming films or holdover releases could impact its performance in subsequent days.
Regional Performance:
The data provided focuses on the Hindi version, but Raid 2 may also release in dubbed formats (e.g., Telugu, Tamil). If these versions perform well in South India, it could add a few crores to the overall tally.
On the flip side, the film has significant opportunities to capitalize on. A strong opening could set the stage for a robust weekend, potentially crossing ₹50 crore in its first three days. Positive word-of-mouth on platforms like X could amplify its reach, drawing in undecided viewers. Additionally, the lack of a major holiday release window means Raid 2 can dominate the box office until the next big film arrives.
The Bigger Picture
Raid 2’s advance booking success is a testament to Ajay Devgn’s enduring appeal and the growing appetite for well-crafted action-thrillers in India. The film’s performance will also reflect broader trends in the industry, where mid-budget films with strong narratives are finding favor alongside mega-budget spectacles. If Raid 2 lives up to its hype, it could join the ranks of 2025’s early box office successes, paving the way for more sequels or similar genre offerings.
As fans gear up for the film’s release, the excitement is palpable. Whether you’re a die-hard Ajay Devgn fan or simply a lover of high-stakes thrillers, Raid 2 promises an adrenaline-pumping ride. Keep an eye on X for real-time updates on its box office performance, audience reactions, and more.
Final Prediction: Raid 2 is on track for a ₹15-18 crore opening day, with the potential to go higher if the stars align. Grab your tickets and join the raid!
Note: Box office predictions are based on available data and market trends as of April 30, 2025. Actual performance may vary.
analyze regional performance