Dangal's untouchable record under THREAT? Dhurandhar 2 and Varanasi could rewrite box office history

Aamir Khan’s Dangal continues to rule the global box office chart for Indian cinema, years after its release. The sports drama achieved what few films have managed, turning into an overseas juggernaut and setting a benchmark that remains untouched.

That dominance may not last forever. A leading film marketer now believes the long standing record will finally fall by 2027, with three big budget projects ready to challenge Dangal’s historic numbers.

Today, we are talking in February 2026. In 16 months, we can talk again, and we definitely will have crossed it

- Varun Gupta (as told to Hindustan Times)

Why Dangal’s Record Still Stands

Released in India in December 2016, Dangal gained unexpected momentum months later when it opened in China and Hong Kong in May 2017. The response there changed the scale of its success. The film earned nearly Rs 600 crore from China and Hong Kong, pushing its China total to Rs 1305.29 crore.

Globally, Dangal closed its run at Rs 2070.3 crore. In India, it collected Rs 387.38 crore. While several films delivered massive business after that, none managed to cross this final figure.

Marketer Predicts the Fall of a Giant

In an interview with Hindustan Times, Varun Gupta was asked whether Dhurandhar 2, Ramayana, or Varanasi could overtake Dangal. He said, “Today, we are talking in February 2026. In 16 months, we can talk again, and we definitely will have crossed it. All three films mentioned, Dhurandhar 2, Ramayana Part One, and Varanasi—have a very clear potential.”

Three Films Lined Up To Break Records

Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar 2 stars Ranveer Singh and is set for a theatrical release on March 19, 2026. The sequel is among the most anticipated Hindi films of the year.

Ramayana will unfold across two parts, featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Yash. Part One arrives on Diwali 2026, followed by Part Two on Diwali 2027.

SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi stars Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The time travel film is scheduled for April 7, 2027. Industry watchers now wait to see if bold predictions turn real.