Record-Breaking Advance Booking for ‘Coolie’
Whether it’s die-hard fans vying for advance tickets or the sheer desire to witness the Coolie magic on release day, theatres are witnessing a booking surge rarely seen before. In cities across South India, especially Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, first-show tickets are selling out within minutes—forcing fans to either pay inflated rates or travel to neighboring states to catch the film.
Prabakar, a lifelong Rajinikanth devotee, shared his frustration: “I’ve tried every popular theatre in Chennai. Prices range from ₹600 to ₹1,000, but some FDFS tickets are as high as ₹4,500. Apps are either showing ‘sold out’ or tickets are blocked. The only options are buying in black or waiting until later shows at government-approved rates.”
Why Rajinikanth Movies Command Such Craze
For those unfamiliar with South Indian cinema culture, such feverish demand may seem shocking. But in Tamil Nadu, where Rajinikanth enjoys a demi-god status, it’s the norm. Even the dubbed versions of Coolie in Telugu are attracting sky-high prices in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Fans are already preparing for massive celebrations once government orders for show timings are released. In these states, early morning shows are a tradition—often scheduled at 5 a.m. or earlier—with premium ticket pricing permitted.
Fans Travel Miles for the First Show
Some fans are going to extreme lengths to experience the first screening. Aravind, an IT professional from Chennai, revealed: “We’re planning to drive to Nagari in Andhra Pradesh—just a few hours from Chennai—for the FDFS. We’ll watch the film, celebrate, and still make it to work afterward.”
In previous years, Tamil Nadu allowed early morning shows as early as 1 a.m. However, after a tragic accident during the Thunivu vs Varisu clash in 2023, the state banned pre-dawn screenings. This has pushed fans to cross state borders to maintain their cherished first-show tradition.
Celebrations Beyond the Screen
Watching a Rajinikanth film is not just about the movie—it’s a cultural event. Fans burst crackers, dance in the streets, and turn theatres into carnival grounds. Inside, audiences shower confetti, chant slogans, and cheer wildly for every on-screen moment.
This phenomenon isn’t limited to Rajinikanth—other South Indian superstars like Vijay, Ajith Kumar, and Kamal Haasan enjoy similar festive releases. But Coolie, with its all-star cast from multiple film industries, has taken fan excitement to another level.
Nationwide Show Timings and Ticket Prices
Kerala & Karnataka: Hosting 6 a.m. shows with overwhelming pre-sales.
Mumbai: 5 a.m. screenings, with tickets priced between ₹250–₹500.
Bengaluru: Single-screen prices hitting ₹2,000, multiplexes at ₹500.
Tamil Nadu: Shows start at 9 a.m., causing many to travel for earlier screenings.
Andhra Pradesh & Telangana: Awaiting government approval for show schedules.
Box Office Predictions: Day 1 Mayhem
Trade experts are already predicting that Coolie could surpass ₹150 crore in worldwide collections on its opening day alone. With fans stampeding to secure tickets and celebrations planned across states, the film’s commercial success seems inevitable.
At 74, Rajinikanth’s ability to draw such massive crowds is unmatched. Every release is a testament to his enduring charisma and connection with audiences. As the frenzy for Coolie continues to rise, one thing is certain—Thalaivar remains the heartbeat of Indian cinema.
