Sikandar Movie Review 2025: Salman Khan’s Epic Action Drama Explored – Plot, Cast, Songs & Box Office Breakdown
Introduction to Sikandar: Salman Khan’s Grand Eid Spectacle
In the bustling world of Bollywood, where stars shine brighter than the Diwali fireworks and stories unfold like a never-ending saga, few releases carry the weight of expectation quite like a Salman Khan Eid blockbuster. Enter Sikandar (2025), the high-octane action drama that promised to reignite the magic of Bhai’s larger-than-life persona. Directed by the visionary A.R. Murugadoss, known for his pulse-pounding narratives in films like Ghajini, Sikandar arrives as a cinematic conqueror, blending raw emotion, gravity-defying action, and a social message wrapped in Salman Khan’s unmistakable charisma.
Released on March 30, 2025, coinciding with Eid al-Fitr, Sikandar isn’t just a movie—it’s an event. With a staggering budget of ₹200 crore, making it one of the most expensive Indian films ever produced, the movie aims to transport audiences from the royal palaces of Rajkot to the gritty streets of Mumbai, all while exploring themes of loss, redemption, and the fight against corruption. Starring Salman Khan in the titular role, alongside a powerhouse ensemble including Rashmika Mandanna, Kajal Aggarwal, and Sathyaraj, Sikandar delivers a narrative that’s as emotionally charged as it is explosively entertaining.
But what makes Sikandar stand out in the crowded 2025 Bollywood landscape? Is it the heart-wrenching tragedy that propels its hero into a vigilante mode, or the breathtaking action sequences that have fans chanting “Bhai, Bhai!” from the rooftops? In this comprehensive Sikandar movie review, we’ll dive deep into every facet of the film—from its gripping plot and stellar cast to the chart-topping soundtrack, behind-the-scenes production hurdles, and its box office rollercoaster. Whether you’re a die-hard Salman fan or a casual cinephile searching for the next big masala entertainer, this guide has you covered. Let’s embark on this epic journey and uncover why Sikandar is more than just a film; it’s a testament to Bollywood’s unyielding spirit.
As we peel back the layers of this 135-minute thrill ride, remember: Sikandar isn’t about conquering lands like its namesake Alexander the Great—it’s about conquering the heartaches of the common man. And in true Salman style, it does so with fists flying and tears flowing. Buckle up, because this Sikandar full movie analysis is about to get intense.
The Plot of Sikandar: A Tale of Tragedy, Triumph, and Tenacity
At its core, Sikandar is a story of transformation—a royal heir turned reluctant savior, fueled by personal loss and unyielding justice. The narrative kicks off in the opulent world of Rajkot, Gujarat, where Sanjay Rajkot (Salman Khan), the last scion of a storied dynasty, lives a life of privilege and purpose. Affectionately called “Sikandar” by his adoring subjects—a nod to the legendary conqueror—Sanjay is the epitome of benevolence. His days are filled with acts of quiet heroism: funding schools for the underprivileged, mediating village disputes, and ensuring no one in his kingdom goes hungry. Yet, beneath this gilded exterior lies a man oblivious to the emotional voids in his own life.
The inciting incident unfolds mid-air, literally. On a flight from Mumbai to Rajkot, Sanjay witnesses a heinous act of harassment. Arjun (Prateik Babbar), the spoiled son of the ruthless Minister Rakesh Pradhan (Sathyaraj), targets Monica, a reformed adult film actress traveling with her young son. In a moment that sets the tone for the film’s unapologetic heroism, Sanjay intervenes with brute force, thrashing Arjun and earning the ire of a powerful political machine. This airborne altercation isn’t just a fight—it’s a declaration of war against the corrupt underbelly of society, where the elite prey on the vulnerable without consequence.
Back in Rajkot, Sanjay’s idyllic life unravels through his strained marriage to Saisri (Rashmika Mandanna), a talented painter and the emotional anchor of the story. Saisri, or Rani Sahiba as she’s known, embodies quiet strength and unspoken longing. Their relationship, marked by Sanjay’s royal duties overshadowing personal intimacy, feels authentic in its subtlety—a rare depth for a masala film. Rashmika’s portrayal captures the frustration of a woman who loves fiercely but feels unseen, culminating in poignant scenes where she reminds Sanjay of their forgotten anniversary with a handmade portrait that tugs at the heartstrings.
Tragedy strikes like a thunderbolt when Saisri, secretly pregnant and trailing Sanjay to a suspicious site, becomes collateral in a bomb blast orchestrated by Pradhan’s goons. In her final moments, unaware of her condition’s revelation to Sanjay, Saisri’s selfless act of organ donation becomes the film’s emotional fulcrum. Her lungs save Kamar, a pollution-choked orphan from Dharavi’s slums; her eyes restore vision to Vaidehi (Kajal Aggarwal), a resilient vada seller stifled by patriarchal norms; and her heart mends Nisha (a young college student grappling with heartbreak and a congenital defect). These recipients aren’t mere plot devices—they’re mirrors to society’s ills: environmental neglect, gender oppression, and emotional fragility.
Wracked by guilt—had he been more attentive, could he have saved her?—Sanjay descends upon Mumbai like a storm. What follows is a multi-threaded odyssey of vengeance and vindication. He infiltrates the lives of the recipients, not as a distant benefactor, but as a guardian angel with fists of steel. For Kamar, it’s a showdown with industrialist Virat Bakshi (Sanjay Kapoor), whose illegal developments choke Mumbai’s air. Sanjay’s infiltration of the factory—complete with high-wire chases and explosive sabotage—highlights the film’s environmental undertones, a subtle critique of unchecked capitalism.
Vaidehi’s arc delves into familial tyranny, where her father-in-law’s superstitions blind her to her dreams. Sanjay’s intervention, posing as a mentor, sparks a feminist fire, empowering her to reclaim her agency in a sequence that’s equal parts empowering and exhilarating. Nisha’s story, the most heartbreaking, explores mental health taboos; her weakening heart symbolizes emotional scars from a toxic past love. Sanjay’s gentle yet fierce protection culminates in a rain-soaked confrontation that blends raw action with cathartic release.
Interwoven are chases that defy physics: a high-speed pursuit on Mumbai local trains, where Sanjay leaps between compartments like a panther; aerial dogfights echoing the opening flight scene; and a climactic warehouse brawl where bullets fly and loyalties shatter. Pradhan, a villain straight out of a political thriller, escalates the stakes by framing Sanjay for a terrorist attack, turning the recipients against him temporarily. Betrayal stings, but Sanjay’s unshakeable faith in Saisri’s legacy rebuilds bridges.
The finale is pure Bollywood catharsis. Sanjay dismantles Pradhan’s empire, but true to his principles, surrenders to the law. In a twist of poetic justice, Mumbai’s masses—moved by his deeds—storm the streets in protest, freeing him and dubbing him the true “Sikandar”: not a conqueror of worlds, but of hearts. The screen fades on Sanjay gazing at Saisri’s portrait, a single tear tracing his cheek, as the credits roll to Pritam’s soul-stirring reprise.
This plot isn’t without flaws—pacing dips in the second act’s subplots, and some twists feel contrived—but its emotional resonance elevates it beyond typical action fare. Sikandar masterfully balances spectacle with substance, reminding us that true power lies in empathy. In a year dominated by sequels and franchises, this original tale feels refreshingly bold.
Meet the Cast: Salman Khan Leads a Stellar Ensemble in Sikandar
No Sikandar cast analysis would be complete without starting at the top: Salman Khan as Sanjay “Sikandar” Rajkot. At 59, Bhai defies age with a physique sculpted for the screen and a presence that commands every frame. Salman’s portrayal is a masterclass in restrained intensity—he’s not just the action hero; he’s the wounded soul whose vulnerability peeks through the bravado. From the flight brawl’s raw fury to the quiet grief in Saisri’s hospital vigil, Khan infuses Sanjay with layers that echo his iconic roles in Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Sultan. Critics may quibble about his limited emotional range, but in Sikandar, it’s a feature, not a bug: his everyman charm makes the royal feel relatable. Off-screen, Salman’s commitment shone through grueling shoots, including rib injuries from stunt falls, proving why he’s Bollywood’s enduring Bhaijaan.
Opposite him, Rashmika Mandanna as Saisri steals hearts as the film’s emotional core. Fresh from South Indian hits like Pushpa, Mandanna brings a breezy authenticity to the role—a painter whose canvases mirror her unspoken desires. Her chemistry with Salman is understated yet electric; scenes like their anniversary fallout crackle with unspoken tension. Rashmika’s arc, from devoted wife to posthumous catalyst, showcases her versatility, blending vulnerability with quiet defiance. It’s a career-defining turn that elevates Sikandar beyond male-centric narratives, earning her praise for humanizing the heroine in a genre often accused of sidelining women.
Kajal Aggarwal shines as Vaidehi, the vada seller whose arc embodies female empowerment. Known for Magadheera and Singham, Aggarwal infuses Vaidehi with fiery resilience—her confrontation with the patriarchal father-in-law is a standout, blending humor and heartbreak. It’s a role that allows her to flex dramatic muscles, moving seamlessly from tearful monologues to empowered stand-offs. Kajal’s screen time may be limited, but her impact is seismic, making Vaidehi the film’s feminist beacon.
Sathyaraj as Minister Rakesh Pradhan is villainy incarnate—a scheming politico whose silky menace recalls his Baahubali gravitas. With a booming voice and piercing eyes, he chews scenery without overacting, making Pradhan a worthy foil to Salman’s hero. His monologues on power’s corrupting allure add intellectual depth, turning him into more than a mustache-twirling antagonist.
Sharman Joshi brings levity as Sanjay’s loyal aide, a comic relief that’s refreshingly grounded. Post-3 Idiots, Joshi’s timing shines in banter scenes, providing breathers amid the intensity. Prateik Babbar as Arjun is a revelation—his unhinged entitlement fuels early chaos, adding layers to a seemingly one-note baddie. Jatin Sarna (83) grounds the ensemble as a cop torn by loyalty, while Sanjay Kapoor chews ham as the greedy industrialist. Supporting turns by Kishore and Ayaan Lall add texture, with the child actor’s wide-eyed innocence tugging at heartstrings.
This Sikandar cast breakdown reveals a dream team: South-North fusion at its finest, where each performer amplifies the others. Salman anchors, but the women—Rashmika and Kajal—elevate, proving Sikandar is a true ensemble triumph.
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Behind the Scenes: Production Insights into Making Sikandar
Crafting Sikandar was no less epic than its on-screen conquests. Directed by A.R. Murugadoss, whose Tamil roots brought a fresh masala flavor to Hindi cinema, the film was a labor of love—and sweat—for Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment and Salman Khan Films. Announced in April 2024 as Salman’s post-Tiger 3 Eid vehicle, production kicked off June 19, 2024, in Mumbai’s sweltering heat, wrapping a hectic nine months later on March 14, 2025.
Murugadoss, fresh off Madharasi, juggled dual commitments, delaying shoots for script refinements. The ₹200 crore budget—covering VFX-heavy action, palace recreations, and international scouting—made it Nadiadwala’s priciest venture since Kick (2014), Salman’s last collab with the producer. Locations spanned Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City for royal sets and Mumbai’s Dharavi for gritty realism, with ₹15 crore spent on Matunga replicas alone.
Challenges abounded. Heavy monsoons flooded outdoor shoots, while Salman’s rib fracture from a train stunt halted filming for weeks. Security threats loomed large—post-Tiger 3 controversies, beefed-up protocols included drone surveillance during public scenes. Yet, these hurdles forged resilience; Murugadoss shot parallel units for efficiency, capturing 70% in Hyderabad’s controlled environs.
Cinematographer Tirru’s lens work is a visual feast—sweeping aerials of Rajkot palaces contrast Mumbai’s neon chaos, with IMAX-friendly wide shots amplifying stunts. Editor Vivek Harshan’s tight cuts keep the 135-minute runtime taut, blending slow-mo heroism with rapid-fire edits. Pritam’s soundtrack, scored amid shoots, infused energy, while Santhosh Narayanan’s BGM added brooding intensity.
Trivia abounds: The flight scene used a custom-built 747 mockup, costing ₹5 crore. Rashmika improvised Saisri’s painting sequences, drawing from her own artistic hobbies. Salman’s “Sikandar” moniker nods to his love for history, with dialogues penned by Rajat Arora, Abbas-Hussain Dalal trio for punchy flair.
In Sikandar production secrets, it’s clear: This wasn’t just filmmaking; it was a battle won through grit, turning obstacles into on-screen gold.
Sikandar Soundtrack: Pritam’s Melodic Masterpiece That Hits All the Right Notes
Music in Sikandar isn’t filler—it’s the heartbeat syncing with the drama. Pritam, collaborating with JAM8, delivers a five-track album that’s a sonic cocktail of romance, revelry, and rage. Released under Zee Music, the OST clocks 22 minutes but lingers long after.
Lead single “Zohra Jabeen” (March 4, 2025) is a romantic earworm, with Amit Mishra and Akasa Singh’s vocals weaving Pritam’s breezy melody. Lyrics by Sameer Anjaan paint Saisri’s longing, Salman’s hook-step in Rajkot’s gardens a visual treat—think Bajrangi‘s innocence meets modern swagger. It topped charts, amassing 50 million streams in week one.
“Bam Bam Bhole” (March 11) brings Holi frenzy, Nakash Aziz and Dev Negi’s infectious energy fueling a montage of Sanjay’s lighter moments. The dhol beats and flute riffs capture festive chaos, a perfect interval energizer.
“Sikandar Naache” (March 18) is the dance-floor dominator—Arijit Singh’s soulful croon over Pritam’s upbeat fusion has Salman grooving in a Mumbai club, blending EDM with folk. It’s the film’s seeti-maar moment, viral for fan recreations.
“Hum Aapke Bina” tugs heartstrings in Saisri’s tragic arc, Arijit again shining in a melancholic ballad that underscores loss. Mohd. Irfan’s rendition adds ethereal depth.
The title track, a Santhosh Narayanan BGM cue turned single, roars with orchestral swells during action peaks—think thunderous percussion echoing Sanjay’s fury.
In this Sikandar songs review, Pritam’s score elevates the narrative, blending emotional anchors with mass anthems. Forgettable? Hardly—it’s a playlist staple.
Action Sequences in Sikandar: High-Octane Thrills That Redefine Bollywood Stunts
Sikandar isn’t content with dialogue—it’s a stunt spectacular, courtesy Murugadoss’ kinetic vision. The action, choreographed by international teams, spans genres: hand-to-hand brawls, vehicular mayhem, and explosive set-pieces that push IMAX boundaries.
The opener, the in-flight melee, sets a claustrophobic tone—Salman disarming Arjun amid turbulence, using seatbelts as whips. It’s intimate yet intense, foreshadowing larger battles.
Mumbai train chase is a highlight: Sanjay pursues Pradhan’s thugs across locals, leaping cars, dangling from doors—raw, un-CGI’d peril evoking Dhoom‘s edge. Rain-slicked tracks amplify tension, Salman’s practical stunts (despite injury) adding authenticity.
Warehouse finale is symphony of chaos: 200 extras, fire rigs, and wire-fu as Sanjay battles goons. Slow-mo entries, bullet-time dodges—Murugoss nods to Ghajini while innovating with drone shots.
Aerial climax over Falaknuma recreates dogfights, Salman piloting a chopper in VFX-heavy sequences costing ₹20 crore. Grounded by emotional stakes, these aren’t gratuitous—they propel the plot.
Weaknesses? Some VFX glitches in explosions, but strengths dominate: Practicality meets spectacle, making Sikandar action breakdown a stunt lover’s dream.
Themes Explored in Sikandar: Corruption, Loss, and Social Justice Unpacked
Beneath the explosions, Sikandar grapples with profound themes. Corruption is the beast—Pradhan’s empire symbolizes systemic rot, Sanjay’s fight a call to arms against greed. It’s not preachy; subplots like Dharavi pollution critique real issues, urging environmental accountability.
Loss drives the soul—Saisri’s death isn’t plot convenience; it’s a meditation on regret, Sanjay’s arc from oblivious king to empathetic warrior mirroring grief’s transformative power. Organ donation subplot honors unsung heroes, blending sentiment with social awareness.
Gender dynamics shine through Vaidehi and Nisha, challenging patriarchy without tokenism. Mental health via Nisha’s arc breaks taboos, emphasizing emotional resilience.
Ultimately, Sikandar themes analysis posits hope: One man’s stand can spark collective change, a timeless Bollywood ethos wrapped in 2025 relevance.
Critical Reception: Mixed Reviews for Sikandar – Hits and Misses
Sikandar polarized critics, earning a 6% Rotten Tomatoes score from 18 reviews (3.8/10 average). Bollywood Hungama (2.5/5): “Powerful message, but weak script dilutes impact.” India Today (2/5): “Exhausting and dated, yet Eid pick for fans.” Times of India (2/5): “Underwhelming plot hampers heroism.” Hindustan Times (2/5): “Weak narrative hurts Salman.” NDTV (2/5): “Logical assault, emperor’s airs.”
Pinkvilla lauded action but slammed pacing; Indian Express (1.5/5): “Flounders spectacularly.” OTTPlay (0.5/5): “Fans deserve better.”
Strengths: Salman’s appeal, action highs. Weaknesses: Screenplay holes, direction lapses. Audience scores higher (6.5/10 IMDb), fans forgiving flaws for Bhai magic.
In Sikandar reviews 2025, it’s a divisive Eid gift—flawed but fervent.
Box Office Breakdown: Sikandar’s Theatrical Journey and OTT Impact
With Eid buzz, Sikandar opened strong: Day 1 ₹30.06 crore nett (worldwide ₹44 crore), boosted by 1.45 lakh advance tickets. Weekend tally: ₹86.43 crore nett, but legs faltered—Tuesday ₹20 crore, total India ₹120 crore, worldwide ₹175-184 crore against ₹200 crore budget. Verdict: Flop, per analysts, citing weak WOM and piracy.
Predictions eyed ₹300 crore+; reality lagged Tiger 3 (₹284 crore). OTT on Netflix (May 25) sparked revival, trending #1 with 20 million hours viewed week one. Satellite on Zee Cinema eyed Diwali.
Sikandar box office analysis : Theatrical stumble, digital redemption—classic 2025 tale.
Fan Reactions: Social Media Buzz Around Sikandar
X (Twitter) exploded post-release: #Sikandar trended with 5 million mentions. Fans raved: “Bhai’s action fire! 🔥 #SikandarReview” (@SalmanFanClub). “Emotional rollercoaster, Rashmika slays! ❤️” (@BollywoodLover). Critiques: “Weak plot, but Salman saves it” (@CinephileIndia).
Reddit’s r/bollywood: 400+ comments, mixed—”Best mass action 2025″ vs. “Disjointed mess.” Memes of Salman’s slow-mo walks viral, boosting engagement.
Instagram reels of “Zohra Jabeen” hit 100 million views. Overall, Sikandar fan reactions : Polarizing, but Bhai’s cult ensures enduring love.
Comparisons with Previous Salman Khan Films: How Sikandar Stacks Up
Sikandar echoes Salman’s oeuvre but carves its niche. Vs. Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015): Shared emotional depth, but Sikandar‘s action eclipses BB‘s sentiment. Tiger 3 (2023): Similar spy-thrills, yet Sikandar‘s social edge trumps Tiger‘s formula.
Kick (2014): Nadiadwala reunion, but Sikandar matures the anti-hero. Sultan (2016): Grief arcs align, Salman’s physicality shines brighter here.
Weak on innovation like Radhe (2021), but surpasses Kisi Ka Bhai in polish. In Salman Khan movies comparison, Sikandar ranks mid-tier: Fan pleaser, not classic.
Director A.R. Murugadoss: Bringing South Flair to Bollywood with Sikandar
A.R. Murugadoss, the Tamil titan behind Ghajini (2008)—Bollywood’s ₹100 crore pioneer—infuses Sikandar with South masala mastery. His bilingual lens blends Ghajini‘s revenge with Holiday‘s patriotism, crafting a pan-India epic.
Post-Spyder (2017) setback, Sikandar marks Hindi return, juggling Madharasi. Strengths: Pacy action, social bites. Critiques: Overlong subplots. Murugadoss admits execution slips but praises Salman’s trust.
In AR Murugadoss Sikandar, he’s the architect bridging industries, flaws notwithstanding.
The Role of Women in Sikandar: Rashmika and Kajal’s Empowering Performances
Sikandar bucks trends with robust female arcs. Rashmika’s Saisri isn’t arm-candy; her agency drives plot, organ donation a feminist legacy. Kajal’s Vaidehi challenges norms, her vada stall symbolizing self-reliance.
These portrayals humanize, avoiding objectification— a step up from genre tropes. In women in Sikandar analysis, they steal thunder, proving heroines can conquer too.
Visuals and Cinematography: Tirru’s Cinematic Lens in Sikandar
Tirru’s cinematography is Sikandar‘s unsung hero. Golden-hour Rajkot shots evoke royalty; Mumbai’s gritty palettes—neon slums, rain-lashed trains—mirror turmoil. IMAX expanses amplify stunts, slow-mo Salman’s silhouette poetic.
From palace grandeur to Dharavi despair, visuals narrate emotionally. Minor VFX niggles aside, it’s a visual symphony.
Conclusion: Is Sikandar Worth Your Time? Final Verdict
Sikandar is Bollywood’s flawed diamond—Salman’s shine, Murugadoss’ vision, ensemble fire. Weak script nicks, but heart soars. Watch for action, stay for soul. 3/5 stars: Eid entertainer supreme.