The cinematic world is abuzz with ‘Coolie’ fever as Superstar Rajinikanth’s highly anticipated film, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, has begun its advance booking, smashing records and generating an extraordinary buzz. According to early trade reports, the film has already grossed an estimated ₹40 crore worldwide in presales, a staggering figure that highlights the film’s immense popularity even before its theatrical release on August 14.
Domestic Box Office: Kerala and Tamil Nadu Lead the Charge
The domestic advance booking for ‘Coolie’ has seen an electrifying start, particularly in the key markets of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. In a remarkable five-hour window, the film reportedly raked in over ₹3 crore in Kerala alone, with online ticketing platforms witnessing an unprecedented frenzy. The state has quickly emerged as a powerhouse for the film, with confirmed ticket sales nearing ₹96.5 lakh and collections, including blocked seats, soaring to an estimated ₹3.06 crore.
Tamil Nadu, a core market for Rajinikanth, is also showing immense enthusiasm. Presales for 1,100 shows on the release day were launched, with 136 shows selling out almost instantly. Initial estimates suggest the film has already earned around ₹2 crore in advance sales in the state, with Chennai alone contributing over ₹60 lakh.
Overseas Market: A Global Box Office Phenomenon
The excitement is not limited to India. ‘Coolie’ is setting international box office records, with opening-day presales nearing a massive ₹30 crore gross. In North America alone, the film has already crossed an impressive $1.42 million (₹12.42 crore) in premiere advance sales, positioning it as one of the biggest Indian premieres of 2025. This spectacular performance has put it in a strong position to challenge the record for the biggest Tamil title debut in international markets, a record currently held by Lokesh Kanagaraj’s previous blockbuster, ‘Leo.’
A Star-Studded Collaboration
‘Coolie’ is a pan-India action spectacle that brings together a stellar cast alongside Rajinikanth. The film features powerhouse performers such as Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, Sathyaraj, and Shruti Haasan, with a special cameo by Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan. The combination of Rajinikanth’s iconic legacy and Lokesh’s gritty directorial style has fueled the anticipation to a fever pitch.
The film, which has been given an ‘A’ certificate by the Censor Board, is set for a grand worldwide release on August 14. The immense demand and record-breaking advance booking numbers indicate that ‘Coolie’ is poised for a monumental opening, challenging other major releases like the Hrithik Roshan-Jr NTR starrer ‘War 2’ at the box office.
This early success underscores the enduring star power of Rajinikanth and the massive anticipation for his collaboration with one of the most sought-after directors in Indian cinema. With bookings yet to open in many more centers, the film’s final presale numbers are expected to climb even higher, solidifying its place as a box office giant.
