Before Sikandar hits theatres, let's look back at A.R. Murugadoss’ Bollywood directorial gems

When people think of riveting stories with intense plots and thrilling action, they think of A.R. Murugadoss. Not only did the celebrated director create numerous smash hits in Tamil cinema, but his influential Hindi films also left an indelible impression on Bollywood. Sikandar, starring Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna, is one of the most anticipated films of 2025, and he is now gearing up for its release. The film is already generating a lot of excitement, and its release is scheduled for Eid. In light of the growing excitement, let's review Murugadoss's notable directorial efforts in Bollywood that have shaped Hindi cinema.

Ghajini (2008) – ZEE5 [OTTplay Premium] & Prime Video

The Hindi version of Murugadoss' own Tamil film, Ghajini, was a huge success when it premiered in Bollywood. Aamir Khan, Asin, and Jiah Khan played important roles in the action thriller. Aamir Khan stars as business magnate Sanjay Singhania, who has trouble remembering things in the short term but sets out on a mission to get revenge for the terrible murder of his sweetheart, Kalpana (Asin). A huge financial success, Ghajini was praised for its riveting plot, profound emotional themes, and thrilling action scenes. Not only did it become the first Bollywood film to reach Rs. 100 crore, but it also set a new standard for action films in general. Both Aamir's physical metamorphosis and the eerie score, especially Guzarish and Kaise Mujhe, were huge blockbusters upon release.

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Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty (2014) – Prime Video

In Holiday, an action thriller co-starring Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha, Murugadoss made a triumphant return to Bollywood six years after helming Ghajini. In this film, which is a reimagining of his Tamil smash movie Thuppakki, Akshay plays the role of Captain Virat Bakshi, a vacationing army officer who finds a network of terrorist sleeper cells and decides to eliminate them. Holiday was well-received by critics and audiences alike thanks to its riveting storyline, exciting plot points, and Akshay's outstanding performance. The film was one of 2014's highest-grossing hits thanks to its patriotic themes and thrilling action scenes.

Akira (2016) – JioHotstar

With Sonakshi Sinha at the helm of Akira, Murugadoss took on the male-dominated action genre in Bollywood. The film, which is the remake of the Tamil film Mouna Guru, concerns the story of Akira Sharma, a college student who gets herself caught up in a corruption scandal when unscrupulous police officers frame her. Showing Murugadoss' talent for delivering commercially successful social storylines, the film was renowned for its brutal action scenes and Sonakshi's tough performance.

Sikandar (2025) – Upcoming Theatrical Release

With Sikandar, Murugadoss' upcoming film, he works with Salman Khan for the first time. The combination of Rashmika Mandanna and the action-packed entertainer promises to make the film a blockbuster for Eid 2025. With its massive size, heart-pounding action, and smash hit soundtrack, Sikandar has all the elements of a potential box office smash hit.

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