O’ Romeo, starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri in the lead roles, is all set to arrive in cinemas in just a few hours. However, the romantic drama has wrapped up its advance booking on a rather underwhelming note, raising concerns about its opening-day performance at the box office.

According to early trade estimates, the film sold approximately 33,000 tickets across the top two national multiplex chains — PVR Inox and Cinepolis — for its first day. Out of this, nearly 27,000 tickets were recorded at PVR Inox alone, with the remaining numbers coming from Cinepolis. Considering the film’s scale, reported budget, and the popularity of its lead pair, these figures are below expectations.

Mounted on a grand canvas and reportedly made on a budget exceeding Rs. 100 crore, O’ Romeo was expected to generate stronger pre-release buzz. The relatively muted advance booking numbers suggest that the film’s promotional campaign may not have resonated as strongly with audiences as anticipated. While the trailer and songs created some conversation, they seemingly failed to translate that interest into substantial ticket pre-sales.

In today’s theatrical landscape, advance bookings often serve as an indicator of a film’s opening-day potential, especially for star-driven projects. For a film headlined by Shahid Kapoor — who has delivered several notable performances in the past — and paired with Triptii Dimri, expectations were naturally higher. The modest pre-sales hint at a cautious audience response heading into release day.

Based on current booking trends and market projections, O’ Romeo is likely to open in the single-digit range. Trade analysts are estimating a day-one collection between Rs. 4 crore and Rs. 7 crore, with a more precise prediction hovering around Rs. 6.50 crore. While not disastrous, this would still be considered a soft start given the film’s reported production and marketing costs.

That said, the real test for O’ Romeo will begin once word of mouth starts circulating. If the film manages to strike an emotional chord with viewers and deliver a compelling cinematic experience, it could witness a positive turnaround over the weekend. Strong audience reception has often proven to be a game-changer, especially for films that begin their journey on a slower note.

Another factor that could work in the film’s favor is Valentine’s Day, which falls close to its release. Given that O’ Romeo is primarily a love story at its core, the romantic season could provide a timely boost to footfalls, particularly among young couples and urban audiences. A favorable response during this period may help the film gain momentum and stabilize its theatrical run.

Financially, the stakes remain high. Despite reportedly securing decent non-theatrical deals — including satellite, digital, and music rights — the film will still need a solid theatrical performance to justify its substantial investment. Recoveries from ancillary rights may offer some cushion, but box office numbers will play a crucial role in determining its overall verdict.

Interestingly, Shahid Kapoor’s previous release, Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, had also witnessed similar advance booking trends. However, that film managed to maintain steady collections over time and ultimately emerged as a successful venture. If O’ Romeo can replicate — or surpass — that trajectory through positive word of mouth and consistent weekend growth, it may yet find its footing.

The film also marks the fourth collaboration between Shahid Kapoor and director Vishal Bharadwaj, a duo known for delivering critically acclaimed projects in the past. Whether this latest outing will add another feather to their cap remains to be seen.

As O’ Romeo prepares to face audiences, all eyes are now on its opening-day numbers and the crucial weekend ahead.

Varun Dhawan is currently basking in the success of Border 2, which has struck a strong chord with audiences and emerged as a box office winner. While the film’s triumphant run has brought cheers and celebration, the journey wasn’t entirely smooth for the actor. Before the war drama proved its mettle at the ticket window, Varun had found himself at the receiving end of online trolling. Now, following the film’s success, the actor has opened up about that challenging phase and the words of encouragement he received from Salman Khan that helped him stay positive.

Varun recently attended a press conference celebrating the success of Border 2, along with co-stars Sunny Deol and Ahan Shetty. During the interaction, he candidly revisited the time when criticism and social media negativity were at their peak. The actor admitted that the trolling surrounding his role in the war film had been difficult to ignore. However, in the middle of that rough patch, he received an unexpected late-night call from Salman Khan.

Recalling the conversation, Varun shared that Salman was in a light-hearted mood. “He was just laughing, and he said, ‘Good things are about to come.’ That’s all he told me,” Varun revealed. Though the message was brief, it left a lasting impact on him. According to the actor, Salman’s belief in him during that moment meant more than any elaborate advice could have. It reassured him that the tide would eventually turn.

As fate would have it, Border 2 went on to perform exceptionally well at the box office, silencing critics and reshaping the narrative around the film. Once the success became evident, Salman reached out again — this time to congratulate Varun. The second call proved to be even more special for the young star.

“He said, ‘I am proud of you, beta,’” Varun shared with visible emotion. He went on to describe it as a defining moment in his career. “He doesn’t praise people easily. He didn’t need to do that, but he did, and it gave me confidence,” added the Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania actor. For Varun, the gesture underscored not just professional appreciation but also personal warmth and encouragement from a senior he deeply respects.

During the press conference, Varun emphasized why he felt it was important to speak about Salman’s support publicly. He acknowledged that the people who stand by you during difficult times play a crucial role in shaping your journey. Their faith becomes an anchor when doubts begin to creep in. By sharing this story, Varun highlighted the significance of solidarity and mentorship within the film industry.

Border 2 marks the return of the iconic franchise nearly 29 years after JP Dutta’s 1997 classic Border. This time, director Anurag Singh has taken the reins to continue the legacy of the patriotic war saga. Led by Sunny Deol, the sequel features a multi-starrer ensemble including Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, and Diljit Dosanjh. The film also stars Mona Singh, Medha Rana, Anya Singh, and Sonam Bajwa in key roles.

Upon release, Border 2 garnered positive reviews from both critics and audiences. The film’s emotional storytelling, high-octane action sequences, and strong performances contributed to its box office success. For Varun, the project not only added another hit to his filmography but also served as a reminder of resilience and faith.

As the celebrations continue, Varun Dhawan’s story stands as a testament to perseverance — and to the power of a few reassuring words at the right time.

Popular actress Kritika Kamra is all set to begin a new chapter in her life as she prepares to marry TV commentator Gaurav Kapur next month. Pinkvilla has exclusively learnt that the couple has chosen to celebrate their union with an intimate and thoughtfully curated ceremony rather than opting for a grand destination wedding. Staying true to their personalities, Kritika and Gaurav are planning a minimalistic yet modern celebration that focuses more on meaning than magnitude.

The wedding is scheduled to take place in March 2026 in Mumbai, in the presence of close family members and friends. According to a source close to the couple, the decision to host the ceremony in the city instead of a lavish destination was intentional. “For Kritika and Gaurav, the wedding was never about scale; it has always been about meaning. They chose to ditch a destination wedding for a modern, minimal and intimate celebration in Mumbai,” the source revealed.

The couple is said to be personally involved in every aspect of the planning process. From décor to styling and overall aesthetics, every element is being carefully curated to reflect their shared values and grounded outlook on life. Rather than following fleeting wedding trends, the two are focusing on creating an atmosphere that feels authentic and deeply personal. The emphasis is on simplicity, elegance, and a contemporary vibe that aligns with who they are as individuals and as a couple.

“They want something that feels true to their personalities and their shared values,” the insider added. “Every detail is being chosen with care. They’re deeply involved in ensuring that they embrace this new chapter and begin it with a celebration that feels authentic to them. Right from décor to styling, everything reflects this thought.”

Kritika and Gaurav are both known for their understated and grounded demeanors, which has made them one of the more low-key celebrity couples in the industry. Their approach to their wedding mirrors this very trait. Instead of an extravagant showcase, they are choosing a clean, elegant, and contemporary aesthetic that speaks to their sensibilities. The idea is to celebrate love and togetherness without an over-the-top display of excess.

The couple was recently spotted together in the city, further sparking excitement among fans. They were seen stepping out of their luxury car dressed in casual outfits, looking relaxed and happy. As always, they graciously acknowledged the paparazzi, posing briefly for pictures before waving goodbye. Their easy chemistry and comfort with each other were evident, adding to the anticipation surrounding their upcoming nuptials.

For those unaware, Kritika and Gaurav subtly made their relationship public in December 2025. The actress shared a couple of pictures of the two together on social media with a simple yet telling caption: “Breakfast with.” The post featured the duo wearing matching sneakers and included a playful line that read, “Does it have to be this cheesy?” The understated announcement was in keeping with their overall vibe — sweet, genuine, and free from unnecessary drama.

As they prepare to tie the knot in the coming weeks, all eyes are now on the couple’s big day. While it may not be a grand destination affair, Kritika Kamra and Gaurav Kapur’s wedding promises to be a heartfelt celebration centered on love, authenticity, and meaningful beginnings.

Rumors surrounding the delay of the much-anticipated third installment of the Ragini franchise have been doing the rounds for quite some time. However, fresh developments suggest that not only is the project very much alive, but it is also undergoing a significant change — starting with its title. Contrary to earlier reports that referred to the film as Ragini MMS 3, sources have now confirmed that the upcoming installment will simply be titled Ragini 3.

The decision to drop “MMS” from the title appears to signal a subtle shift in the franchise’s direction. While the earlier films leaned heavily into the found-footage horror format blended with erotic elements, the third chapter is expected to explore a slightly different creative path. According to an independent source, the new film will delve deeper into supernatural themes, suggesting a more traditional horror approach while retaining the franchise’s bold undertones. That said, the makers are keeping the storyline tightly under wraps, and no official plot details have been disclosed yet.

Casting discussions are currently underway, adding to the buzz surrounding the project. Tamannaah Bhatia and Junaid Khan are reportedly in talks to play the lead roles. Although there has been no official confirmation from the production house or the actors themselves, insiders reveal that conversations are progressing positively. If finalized, this would mark an interesting pairing and bring fresh energy to the franchise.

Earlier reports had indicated that the project was facing an indefinite delay, with speculation that it might even be shelved. There were also claims that director Sahir Raza had stepped away from the film due to scheduling conflicts and other professional commitments. These developments fueled uncertainty about the future of the film. However, new information suggests that the production is back on track. In fact, it has now been confirmed that Shashanka Ghosh, who was originally attached to the project, will take over the director’s chair. His return is expected to provide stability and creative clarity to the venture.

Ekta Kapoor continues to back the franchise, remaining the driving force behind the Ragini series since its inception. The original Ragini MMS, released in 2011, starred Rajkummar Rao and Kainaz Motivala. The film gained attention for its blend of horror and sensuality, along with its found-footage style presentation. Its commercial success paved the way for a sequel, Ragini MMS 2, which released in 2014 and featured Sunny Leone and Saahil Prem in leading roles. The sequel amplified the glamour quotient and became widely talked about for its bold storytelling and chart-topping music.

With Ragini 3, the makers appear keen to reinvent the franchise while preserving its core identity. By rebranding the title and shifting the narrative focus more strongly toward supernatural horror, the team seems to be aiming for a broader appeal. The potential inclusion of Tamannaah Bhatia and Junaid Khan also indicates a strategic casting move to attract both mainstream audiences and younger viewers.

Although an official release date has not yet been announced, the renewed momentum behind the project has certainly revived excitement among fans of the franchise. As anticipation builds, audiences can expect more updates regarding casting confirmations, storyline hints, and production timelines in the coming months.

For now, one thing is clear — Ragini 3 is moving forward, and it promises to bring a fresh twist to the popular horror series.

On the eve of O’Romeo’s release, Vishal Bhardwaj is not speaking as a filmmaker chasing numbers or validation. He is speaking as an artist who has wrestled with his own contradictions. For over three decades, Bhardwaj has built a body of work that moves between poetry and brutality, tenderness and rage. With O’Romeo, he seems to confront those extremes head-on. The film, he suggests, is not just a story but a release. A reckoning with the violence he sees in the world and the love that has kept him anchored within it.

Turning sixty has sharpened that introspection. Looking back at his cinema, he sees patterns he hadn’t fully named before. Revenge. Anguish. Moral conflict. And beneath all of it, a deep, stubborn faith in human connection.

Before critics respond and before the box office has its say, Bhardwaj chose to speak directly to his team and his audience. What follows is not a promotional statement. It is a confession of sorts. A thank you. A reflection. A declaration of pride.

In his own words:

O’ROMEO

Before the critics speak and before the box office delivers its verdict, I feel compelled to share how deeply proud I am of this film.

Before the accolades or the criticism arrive, I must thank, from the deepest part of my being, all my HODs who gave far more than was ever asked of them – their vision, their integrity, their sweat, their blood, and their unconditional commitment to my vision.

My real heroes: Mustafa Stationwala, Faramarz Wankadia, Ben Bernhard, Meghdeep Bose, Aarif Sheikh, Maxima Basu, Dani Del Rosario, Vikram Dahiya, Ankur Chaudhary, Yash Darji, Shantanu Yennemadi, Krutika Jain, Mukesh Chhabra, Makarand Surte, Justin Jose, Samir Zaidi, Konstantin Minnich, Saurabh Goswami and ‘Anl’ Arasu. Also, my most loving associate, Abhay Datt Sharma – who shared my love, pain, frustration, and both my reasonable and unreasonable whims – and my creative producer, Priti Shahani. I will not make another film without her.

Through this film, I have realized the immense capacity I hold for love and for violence – together. Looking back at my body of work, l see a recurring theme I wasn’t even conscious of: revenge. And at sixty, I am only now beginning to understand it.

There is so much hatred, violence, and injustice in society — and I often feel powerless against it. It wounds me deeply. This pent-up anguish needed release. In O’Romeo, through my protagonist, I slash throats, split skulls, and blow the brains of the monsters I cannot confront in real life.

Opposite this violence stands an equally intense force — love. A love born from a lifetime of encounters with beautiful, sensitive souls who have shaped me. A love that did not let me drown. A love that pulled me out of the pool of blood.

I am in love with this specie called human — forever torn between two extreme emotions.

O’Romeo is the manifestation of these polarities.

It is as massy as I can be.
It is as artistic as I can be.
It is as violent as I can be.
It is as poetic as I can be.
It is as loving as I can be.
It is as vengeful as I can be.

This journey has ended on such a beautiful note that these feelings must be shared — regardless of the outcome.

As Dr, Basheer Badr says:
Subah hui, aankhein kholein, kapde badlein, pheete baandhein..
Uss sheher ke baare mein sochein, jo sheher ab aane waala hai..

सुबह हुई आँखें खोलें कपडे बदले फीते बांधे
उस शहर के बारे में सोचें जो शहर अब आने वाला है

With this powerful and deeply personal note, Vishal Bhardwaj has further heightened curiosity around O’Romeo, setting the stage for audiences to witness his vision on the big screen tomorrow.

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Sajid Nadiadwala presents O’Romeo, a film by Vishal Bhardwaj, produced under the banner of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment. The film releases theatrically on 13th February 2026.