Prabhas fans have a major festive treat incoming. The Raja Saab (often searched as “Rajasab”) is all set for a worldwide theatrical release on January 9, 2026, and the hype is officially shifting into box-office mode with advance bookings now open across key markets.
Adding to the buzz, the Andhra Pradesh government has cleared a ticket price hike, allowing paid premiere tickets to go up to ₹1000, with higher rates also approved for regular shows during the film’s initial run.
Advance Bookings Open: Early Momentum Builds
With the release just days away, The Raja Saab has already seen notable traction in advance sales—especially overseas. Reports tracking the North American market show the film has been building pre-release momentum, with multiple shows listed and advance sales accumulating in the lead-up to premiere night.
This is a crucial signal for a Prabhas-starrer because overseas premieres often act as an early indicator of opening weekend performance.
Ticket Price Hike Approved in Andhra Pradesh
The biggest talking point, though, is the ticket pricing update. As per reports citing the latest government directive:
- Paid premiere shows (from January 8) can be priced up to ₹1000 per ticket in Andhra Pradesh.
- For regular shows starting January 9, ticket prices have also been revised:
- Single screens: hike of ₹150 (taking tickets to ₹297)
- Multiplexes: hike of ₹200 (taking tickets to ₹377)
- Makers have reportedly been allowed up to five shows per day during the period covered by the order.
For fans, this means more shows and more access—but at a premium price, especially for premiere screenings.
Why the Hike Matters
Ticket price hikes are usually granted only when:
- a film has strong pre-release demand,
- the festive window is expected to boost footfalls,
- and exhibitors want maximum yield during peak occupancy days.
But higher prices also raise the stakes: if word-of-mouth isn’t strong, premium pricing can impact repeat viewing and weekday holds.
What The Raja Saab Is Promising
Directed by Maruthi, The Raja Saab is positioned as a horror-fantasy/comedy entertainer—and notably marks Prabhas’ first outing in this genre zone, making it one of his most curiosity-driven releases in years.
The film’s festive timing (Pongal/Sankranti season) also puts it in a high-competition period, where only strong audience response sustains momentum beyond the opening.
Final Take
With advance bookings open and ticket prices officially hiked in Andhra Pradesh (up to ₹1000 for premieres), The Raja Saab is entering release week like a full-scale event film. Now the only question is whether the content delivers the kind of word-of-mouth needed to justify premium pricing and extend its run beyond the holiday rush.
