Sikandar movie review: Salman Khan, Rashmika Mandanna starrer an instant hit despite mixed reactions

Salman Khan’s much-awaited Eid release, ‘Sikandar’, stormed into theatres today, setting off a wave of excitement among fans and currently stationed at 7.2/10 on IMDb.

Directed by AR Murugadoss, the film delivers an action-packed spectacle, with Khan in his signature larger-than-life role. The ensemble cast includes Rashmika Mandanna, Sathyaraj, Prateik Babbar, and Sharman Joshi.

Released today, the film has ignited massive fanfare, although some critics remain unconvinced by its familiar formula.

Fans vs Critics: A Divided Verdict

Reactions on social media have been overwhelmingly enthusiastic, with many calling Sikandar a “paisa vasool” entertainer. X (formerly Twitter) is buzzing with fans raving about Khan’s action-packed screen presence, Pritam’s lively soundtrack, and the film’s larger-than-life moments.

Just Done watching #Sikandar and can’t hold my excitement This is my review and reaction 🥵🔥#SalmanKhan pic.twitter.com/aLHkYtBymz

— Rohit Pathak  (@Being_Rohitp) March 30, 2025

Theatre turned into stadium during Zohra Zabeen song.. The SAL-MANIA 🔥#SalmanKhan #Sikandar #SikandarReview pic.twitter.com/cZXbOHoZUv

— MASS (@Freak4Salman) March 30, 2025

Sikandar Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐

Blockbuster, Blockbuster, Blockbuster......

Just Saw sikandar- #Sikandar is the best #SalmanKhan film after Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Yes even better than Sultan and TZH.
Even I cry after Watching it,
Too emotional and Action packed
Many goosebump moments. pic.twitter.com/QPqlNohEGG

— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh76) March 29, 2025

However, some critics argue that the movie offers little new, sticking to a well-worn blueprint of high-energy action and emotional drama.

#SikandarReview ⭐️⭐️/5

Same old boring story. just the same old predictable and boring film.

Highlights:

▪️Action sequences
▪️Storyline

Cons:
▪️Outdated Screenplay
▪️Lifeless Storytelling
▪️Poor Music
▪️Completely Boring
▪️Weak Direction#Sikindar | #SalmanKhan |… pic.twitter.com/5y78dbSQ1k

— TollywoodRulz (@TollywoodRulz) March 30, 2025

Rating: ⭐️½#Sikandar is UNBEARABLE. An outdated plot and sluggish screenplay make it a tiresome watch. The action is dull, the emotions feel forced, and the execution is poor. #SalmanKhan looks tired throughout, stuck in one expression. A colossal misfire! 🤦🏻‍♂️👎👎 #SikandarReview…

— Bollywood Box Office (@Bolly_BoxOffice) March 30, 2025

High-Octane Action Meets Emotional Resonance

Sikandar revolves around Sanjay Rajkot (Salman Khan), who finds himself entangled in a bitter rivalry with Arjun Pradhan (Prateik Babbar), the arrogant son of a powerful minister (Sathyaraj). 

When tragedy strikes, and Sanjay’s wife, Saisri (Rashmika Mandanna), loses her life while shielding him, her decision to donate her organs sets him on an emotional journey. As he seeks out the beneficiaries of her generosity, he must also confront relentless enemies determined to take him down.

Packed with gravity-defying action sequences, emotional beats, and moments of sheer adrenaline, Sikandar stays true to the Salman Khan formula.

His grand entry, accompanied by slow-motion shots and a pulsating background score, is crafted for fan frenzy.

Rashmika Mandanna impresses with her poised performance, and despite the noticeable age gap, their chemistry works within the film’s framework.

Box Office and Future Prospects

Early numbers suggest Sikandar is set for a massive opening. Reports indicate that advance bookings alone have raked in over Rs 8.8 crore, with packed single-screen theatres adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

Industry analysts predict a strong weekend performance, with potential for record-breaking collections in the days ahead.