Once, releasing Telugu dubbed films in Hindi was risky, but Baahubali and Pushpa changed the game. Today, South Indian films are lifelines for theaters and distributors in northern states.
According to the 2024 R Max Box Office Report, India’s total box office gross was 12,000 crores, with Hindi films contributing 4,679 crores. Surprisingly, 31% of that came from dubbed South Indian films. For instance, Pushpa 2: The Rule alone grossed ₹889 crores in Hindi.
Meanwhile, Bollywood’s straight films saw a 37% decline in gross collections, saved only by a few hits like Stree 2 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2.
Telugu cinema continued its steady growth, thanks to pan India successes like Kalki 2898 AD, Devara, and Pushpa 2. In 2025, upcoming films like Hari Hara Veera Mallu and Fauji are expected to further elevate Tollywood’s status. With South Indian films dominating, Tollywood could become the main hits of Indian cinema.