Madharaasi & Ghaati Movie Review and Release Live Updates: Sivakarthikeyan's film dominates box office
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Sep 05, 2025, 19:57:20 IST
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Madharaasi & Ghaati Movie Review and Release Live Updates: Sivakarthikeyan's film dominates box office

Theatres across South India turned into a carnival on September 5 as Madharaasi and Ghaati arrived together, setting the stage for one of the most exciting box office clashes of the year. Fans of Sivakarthikeyan and Anushka Shetty poured in with drums, banners, and sheer energy, proving once again that cinema here is more than just entertainment — it’s a celebration.

In Madharaasi, A. R. Murugadoss throws Sivakarthikeyan into a world of fire and grit. He’s Raghu, an ordinary man who wants nothing more than a simple life with his beloved Malathy, played by Rukmini Vasanth. But peace never lasts long in Murugadoss’ world. When Malathy becomes a pawn in a dangerous gun-smuggling game, Raghu is forced to confront ruthless criminals like Vidyut Jammwal and Biju Menon. What follows is a ride packed with action, heartbreak, and the courage of a man who never asked to be a hero, but rises because love leaves him no choice.

Across theatres, Ghaati unravels a darker tale. Directed by Krish Jagarlamudi, it follows Desi Raju, played by Vikram Prabhu, a man broken by betrayal and pushed into crime. Alongside him, Anushka Shetty’s Sheelavathi holds her own with commanding screen presence, while Jagapathi Babu adds weight with his menacing flair. It’s a story that aches, showing how victims can be molded into legends when life gives them no escape.

Two films, two worlds — one about a man dragged into a storm, another about a man who becomes the storm. Together, they’ve made September 5 a date to remember for cinema lovers.
19:57 (IST) Sep 05
'Ghaati': Anushka delivers a peak performance
19:43 (IST) Sep 05

Wishing @MsAnushkaShetty garu, @DirKrish garu, @iamVikramPrabhu garu and the entire team of #Ghaati the very best for tomorrow’s release.

Allu Arjun

19:31 (IST) Sep 05
A 'Kaaki Sattai' connect in 'Madharaasi'
19:17 (IST) Sep 05
Sivakarthikeyan's comic sense gets an applause
In the current generation, @Siva_Kartikeyan is one actor who has been blessed with a brilliant comic timing and #ARMurugadoss makes full use of it in #Madharaasi. The movie doesn't have a separate comedian and yet his humor sense keeps us entertained. ???? This movie will definitely impress the family audience as it's high on comedy and emotions. ????
19:00 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi': An interesting film SK & ARM
Interesting Gun Culture Premise & Mad Max SK Character. Biju Menon, Shabeer Gud. Music let down. Live Locations, Stunts & Edit Supports. Decent 1st Hlf, Superb Interval, Complete Action Packed, Lengthy 2nd Hlf; Sadly Story doesnt move. WATCHABLE One for Action Fans!
18:44 (IST) Sep 05
Vijay fans enjoy 'Madharaasi'
18:29 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi': Sivakarthikeyan recalls 'GOAT' memories, reveals 'Thuppakki' connection
Sivakarthikeyan came to watch the first day first show (FDFS) of the film 'Madharaasi' with fans at the Sathyam Cinema in Chennai. Fans were thrilled to see him. Sivakarthikeyan arrived along with his wife Aarthy for 'Madharaasi' FDFS. After watching the film in the theater with fans, he shared his emotions at a press conference.


Speaking at the interaction, Sivakarthikeyan said, “The film Madaraasi has received a very good response from the audience. I am very happy to see the audience applauding in the expected places in the theater. This is a big success for everyone who worked on the film," he said. He also requested everyone to come to the theater and watch the film and enjoy it.

Also, recalling the film GOAT, in which he starred alongside actor Vijay, Sivakarthikeyan said, “That film will always be remembered by me. Similarly, the film 'Madharaasi' is also a story involving a gun (Thuppakki). The film has given a new experience to the fans. I am very satisfied," he said emotionally. With the release of 'Madharaasi,' Sivakarthikeyan's fans have once again turned the theaters into a celebration of excitement.
18:16 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi': A decent film from AR Murugadoss
A decent movie. Many plot holes and cringe scenes but has its high points as well. Most of them will enjoy the movie. Definitely not to the level of OG ARM we know.
18:02 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi' joins Sivakarthikeyan and Anirudh's blockbuster list
17:46 (IST) Sep 05
'Ghaati': Vikram Prabhu earns praise
From Kollywood to Tollywood — #VikramPrabhu ’s big leap with #Ghaati ???? A mega budget film crafted by Krish, giving him massive reach across industries.
17:33 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi' OTT release: When and where we can expect Sivakarthikeyan and AR Murugadoss's film
Directed by AR Murugadoss, 'Madharaasi,' starring Sivakarthikeyan, released in theaters today (Sep 5) on a huge number of screens worldwide. Commercially, the film has achieved great success even before its release. Amazon Prime Video has acquired the OTT (digital streaming) rights of the film. At the same time, Zee TV has acquired the satellite rights of the channel. It is noteworthy that through this, the production company has received a large amount of advance money. As per M9, the OTT rights of 'Madharaasi' were sold for around Rs 60 crore, while satellite rights were sealed for Rs 26 crore. It's a record deal for the Sivakarthikeyan starrer, and it shows the hike for the actor's films after the mega blockbuster 'Amaran.' 'Madharaasi' is likely to stream on OTT in the first week of October, while the satellite premiere of the film is expected to be on a festival occasion.
17:16 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi' targets ₹30 crore global opening
'Madharaasi' has set a record in booking collections. According to One India, the first-day booking collection has crossed Rs. 20 crore. Out of this, it is said that up to Rs. 16 crore has been collected in Tamil Nadu alone. As per a trade report from Sacnilk, 'Madharaasi' has grossed around Rs 10 crore in India till noon.
16:46 (IST) Sep 05
Sivakarthikeyan writes for fans on 'Madharaasi' release
I had an amazing journey over the past one and half years with @ARMurugadoss sir, along with a solid cast and crew and my dear rockstar @anirudhofficial ❤️ We have given our best to bring you this action entertainer. Hope you all will love our work. Please watch it in theatres ????????
16:32 (IST) Sep 05
'Ghaati': Anushka Shetty's revenge thriller strikes well
Ghaati is a gritty, tribal revenge thriller that marks @MsAnushkaShetty fierce return — her commanding presence elevates the film, even as pacing and screenplay wobble. Krish’s visuals and mythic framing impress, but uneven execution pulls it back. #Ghaati #AnushkaShetty
16:15 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi': Sivakarthikeyan's film sinks in a sea of love
#Madharaasi • loved it!! one of the best first half’s this year!! murganolan actually wrote a nice and sweet lovestory ???? second half went on with complete action mode! genuine high with action blocks with no cameo gimmicks! Vidyut’s fights are a major highlight in the movie!
15:45 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi': A look at highlights of Sivakarthikeyan's film
Opening 10 Mins..???? - @Siva_Kartikeyan 's Characterization (Hospital scene, Earthquake scene & Thangapoovey Song) - Conference Call..???? - Interval Block Fight & Elevation - @VidyutJammwal Hospital fight???? - SK's Lockup Fight - Climax Action Block
15:27 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi': Sivakarthikeyan's performance peaks
Watched #Madharaasi @kamala_cinemas SK Performance ???????????? Vidyut Performance Was Excellent Rukmini Performance Super Anirudh BGM And Songs ???????????? AR Murugadoss ???????????? 2nd Half >> 1st Half For Me Action Scenes ???????? Cinemotography ???????????? Overall Worth Watching In Theatres
15:12 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi': SK turns Beast Mode
#Madharaasi – SK in total BEAST MODE ????????❤️‍????

This is the SK, fans have been waiting for energy, mass… all on point.

Good comeback for #ARMurugadoss (though 2nd half & love track could’ve been tighter).
14:56 (IST) Sep 05
AR Murugadoss makes a strong comeback
#ARMurugadoss is truly back and how! Madharaasi is easily his best movie since Kaththi. He has delivered a quintessential commercial entertainer that fires on all cylinders. The superbly choreographed action set pieces, the well-written romance, solid emotions and fun - this film has everything going for it.

Coming to #Sivakarthikeyan, his next chapter in action cinema is a major success. He's a one man entertainment troop. Action, comic timing, romance, emotional - this is an actor and entertainer SK in perfect balance.????

@rukminitweets
leaves a huge impact with a convincing performance. She's lovely and brilliant in emotional scenes. ????
@anirudhofficial
- movie after movie he delivers it. His music is one of the big strengths, lifting every action sequence with his pulsating and stylish score. ????????

This film has two strong antagonists. #VidyutJamwal and #ShabeerKallarakkal - both are menacing and added strength to the film. ???? Fantastic character act by Biju Menon. ????

Madharaasi is worth a watch just to witness the return of an OG commercial King - #ARMurugadoss. ????
@ARMurugadoss

@Siva_Kartikeyan
14:41 (IST) Sep 05
Sivakarthikeyan & Rukmini Vasanth deliver a great work
#Madharaasi when it comes to Love & Emotions both #Sivakarthikeyan & #RukminiVasanth done a great work.. ???????????? Emotions worked very well between them.. #Thangapoovey Visuals & Song ???????????????????????????? Truly a better Love story writing after Ghajini from #ARMurugadoss ????????
14:26 (IST) Sep 05
'Ghaati': Anushka Shetty dominates
Anushka Shetty dominates the screen as Sheelavathi, carrying the film with her fiery performance and emotional depth. She brings grit and conviction, making her character’s journey of loss and revenge the heart of the story. #VikramPrabhu makes a decent debut, while #RavindraVijay is convincing as the ruthless Kaastala Naidu.

#Ghaati begins with promise, showcasing the illegal trade in the Eastern Ghats and the conflict between power players. and #Krish’s direction fails to add the required spark.

Technically, the Eastern Ghats are captured with visual richness, yet the slow editing makes the film drag. #SaiMadhavBurra’s dialogues shine only at times. #VidyaSagar’s songs don’t register, but his background score supports the narrative in crucial moments.

Performances elevate the film – #AnushkaShetty’s intensity is its biggest strength, #VikramPrabhu holds his ground in his first outing, and #RavindraVijay delivers menace effectively. However, weak character development for the rest limits the impact.

Verdict: #Ghaati has flashes of intensity and a powerful act from Anushka Shetty, but the weak writing, dragging pace, and flat music stop it from becoming a gripping revenge saga. Strictly an average watch.
14:14 (IST) Sep 05
Fans mob Sivakarthikeyan after 'Madharaasi' FDFS
14:02 (IST) Sep 05
Anushka roars in Krish Jagarlamudi's directorial
#AnushkaShetty roars back ????power, rage & mass screen presence. Krish delivers Big.
13:54 (IST) Sep 05
'Ghaati': Anushka's film is raw and rustic
Raw, Rustic, Action Emotional Revenge Drama Blockbuster #Ghaati ????????????, rates netizen
13:41 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi' peaks in reservations after positive WOM
13:34 (IST) Sep 05
Netizens on Anushka's performance
Netizens seem to be loving Anushka Shetty's performance as one Tweet reads, "Anushka as sheelavathi performance Was ???????? Raw, real, and unforgettable. Anushka delivered fire in Ghatti steals the show."
13:29 (IST) Sep 05
Anirudh Ravichander expresses his happiness on 'Madharaasi' positive reviews
Sooo happy for my dearest @Siva_Kartikeyan and @ARMurugadoss sir ❤️❤️❤️ Most importantly, thank you and love you all ???????????????????????? #Madharaasi @rukminitweets @VidyutJammwal @SriLakshmiMovie and the whole team ????????????
12:15 (IST) Sep 05
Sureshot no doubt - 'Ghaati' Twitter reaction
A Twitter user shares, "ArudhAthi - All Time Blockbuster BhAAgamathie - All Time Blockbuster GhAAti - Sureshot no doubt Whenever there is a double A in Sweety's title, it's a Blockbuster ???? Bonding @alluarjun @MsAnushkaShetty ❤️."
11:55 (IST) Sep 05
The trio has delivered their entertaining best! - 'Madharaasi'
One Twitter review reads, "#Madharaasi [4/5] : Director @ARMurugadoss vintage screenplay.. @Siva_Kartikeyan Verithanamana Action Avatar.. ???? @anirudhofficial Top-notch music.. The trio has delivered their entertaining best!."
11:23 (IST) Sep 05
'Ghaati' Twitter reaction - 'Poorly made'
One Twitter review reads, "#Ghaati movie is poorly made. It tries to be raw rustic and bloody but ends up being a poor mans Dussehra. Bad story and #AnushkaShetty looks aged and acting is flat. Vikram Prabhu is wasted. Worst loud BGM. All violence 0 substance. SKIP! 0.5/5."
11:10 (IST) Sep 05
Sivakarthikeyan’s Fitness Drive for ‘Madharaasi’ Wins Fans
Sivakarthikeyan’s Fitness Drive for ‘Madharaasi’ Wins Fans

Sivakarthikeyan’s dedication to Madharaasi, directed by AR Murugadoss, has captured the internet’s attention. A behind-the-scenes workout video shows the actor’s impressive physical transformation for the action-packed film. Netizens were quick to praise his hard work, but it was a sweet cameo that stole the spotlight. In the clip, Sivakarthikeyan’s son, Doss, joins him mid-session, bringing smiles to fans everywhere.

11:07 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi' Twitter review
One Twitter user wrote, "1st Half – Love ♥️ Comedy ???? Action ????
2nd Half – FULL & FULL ACTION ????

Once again, it’s an action-hero transformation for #Sivakarthikeyan after #Amaran ????, featuring 6 adrenaline-pumping action sequences from small fights to grandeur-level action all with a strong."
10:47 (IST) Sep 05
Solid film from AR Murugadoss - Twitter review
One Twitter user wrote, "After a long time solid film from AR Murugados, My best SK’s Theatrical experience. #Madharaasi."
10:24 (IST) Sep 05
It’s a Lady Queen Super Star - 'Ghaati'
One Twitter review reads, "#Ghaati Review : It’s a Lady Queen Super Star ⭐️ show totally - 3/5???????????? Mainly the queen ???? @MsAnushkaShetty had given one of the wildest ???????????? performance in her career and in action sequences she really killed it ???????????? #AnushkaShetty #KrishJagarlamudi Director @DirKrish made a good film ???? which is good on screen could have taken some care in screenplay and bit VFX editing."
10:05 (IST) Sep 05
Good first half despite few lagging scenes - 'Ghaati' Twitter reaction
One Twitter review reads, "#Ghaati 1st half done (UK Premiers). Good first half despite few lagging scenes. @MsAnushkaShetty kudos. Great guts for actors and director to pull the interval. @DirKrish good job sir. Waiting for 2nd half. House full in Leeds..."
10:05 (IST) Sep 05
Second half - good - 'Ghaati' Twitter reaction
'Ghaati's Twitter reactions are mostly mixed. One wrote, "Second half - good 5 mins into the movie Sweety mass mode on ???? So many whistle worthy moments ???? Bgm should have been better Only drawback is sweety voice is too sweety for the mass dialogues ???? And they really did kateramma kodalu moment ???????? #Ghaati 2.25/5"
10:01 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi' Twitter reaction
One Twitter user wrote, "#Madharaasi is an action-packed love drama that unfolds between a Special Task Force and a powerful North Indian mafia in Tamil Nadu. The film delves deep into themes of love, revenge, sacrifice, and friendship amidst a high-stakes war."
08:54 (IST) Sep 05
Madharaasi passable 1st half! - First reaction
A first reaction reads, "#Madharaasi Passable 1st Half! The film has an engaging setup with a typical ARM style hero characterization that works decently. The interval is handled neatly. However, the middle portions and the romantic thread feel dragged at times with too many songs. The music has been a letdown so far. 2nd Half Awaits!"
08:37 (IST) Sep 05
Fans request 'Ghaati' to be released in Tamil Nadu
Fans request 'Ghaati' to be released in Tamil Nadu

One Twitter user wrote, "Someone tell the #Ghaati team to release it in Tamil Nadu too! Sweety has a strong fanbase here ❤️ Especially when #Madharasi isn't getting the best response, this could really click with the audience."

08:28 (IST) Sep 05
'Madharaasi' early reaction
One Twitter user wrote, "Besides few old fashioned or cringe scenes, mostly engaging and entertaining 1st Half.
@anirudhofficial
is the backbone of the movie. Typical #ARM style of screenplay. Love, crime, few laughable moments. #SK acting is impressive #Madharaasi #Madharaasireview #Madharasi ????????."
08:14 (IST) Sep 05
'Ghaati' - Performance-driven but technically uneven
According to early reactions, while opinions varied, Anushka’s performance emerged as the most consistent talking point. A fan declared, “It’s a Lady Queen Super Star show totally – 3/5. Mainly the queen @MsAnushkaShetty had given one of the wildest performances in her career and in action sequences she really killed it. Director @DirKrish made a good film which is good on screen could have taken some care in screenplay and bit VFX editing.”
08:01 (IST) Sep 05
Second half highlights Anushka’s intensity - Ghaati first reaction
The second half seems to have resonated more with audiences. A reviewer shared, “#GhaatiReview 2nd half started flat with a backstory but gone high with crazy fight episodes. Just #AnushkaShetty screen presence is enough. Pre climax had a little lag but full meals with the climax. Overall: 3/5.” Another added, “Second half: criminal legend. It’s completely Anushka Shetty’s rage and action scenes worked out well but music, bgm is biggest minus.”
07:49 (IST) Sep 05
'Ghaati' early reactions
Several viewers felt Ghaati failed to live up to its raw and rustic premise. One critical user tweeted, “#Ghaati movie is poorly made. It tries to be raw rustic and bloody but ends up being a poor man’s Dussehra. Bad story and #AnushkaShetty looks weird and aged and her acting is so wooden and flat. Vikram Prabhu is wasted. Worst loud BGM. All violence 0 substance. SKIP! 0.5/5.”
07:30 (IST) Sep 05
Allu Arjun wishes 'Ghaati' team
Allu Arjun has penned a wish for Anushka Shetty's 'Ghaati' team. He Tweeted, "Wishing @MsAnushkaShetty garu, @DirKrish garu, @iamVikramPrabhu garu and the entire team of #Ghaati the very best for tomorrow’s release."
07:22 (IST) Sep 05
Expectations high for 'Madharaasi'
Expectations high for 'Madharaasi'

The hype is quite high for 'Madharaasi' as one Twitter user wrote, "All the best @Siva_Kartikeyan brother. Despite so much negativity, the hard work and efforts you have put in is the sole reason why you are here. I'm sure this movie #Madharaasi will be a turning point for #ARMurugadoss sir. Madharasi madness ❤????????⭐⭐⭐⭐"

07:05 (IST) Sep 05
About 'Ghaati'
About 'Ghaati'

The film tells the gripping story of a tribal woman who evolves into a criminal figure involved in the ganja trade, navigating a world of danger, betrayal, and survival. Sheelavathi, portrayed by Anushka, faces challenges that test her resilience, offering audiences a character-driven narrative that emphasizes depth and nuance over spectacle.

07:03 (IST) Sep 05
Anushka Shetty’s Ghaati Sets Modest US Advance Sales at USD 18,460
South Indian superstar Anushka Shetty is making a notable comeback with Ghaati, directed by Krish Jagarlamudi, as the heroine-centric drama gears up for its North American premiere. Early indications from advance bookings show a modest start, with the film earning USD 18,460 across 123 locations, translating to over 1,200 tickets sold.
07:02 (IST) Sep 05
Madharaasi Beats Raayan; 1713 Shows Pre-Sold
The numbers are particularly notable because Madharaasi has surpassed the advance booking collection of Dhanush’s Raayan, which had previously raked in Rs 2.63 crore from 1,357 shows. This early momentum indicates strong anticipation among audiences, driven by the film’s high-octane action, gripping storyline, and star power.
07:01 (IST) Sep 05
Madharaasi Day 1 Advance Booking Hits Rs 3cr in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu’s theatres are buzzing as Madharaasi opens to an impressive start in advance bookings. According to Cinetrak, the A. R. Murugadoss-directed action thriller starring Sivakarthikeyan has earned over Rs 3 crore from pre-sales alone, with a total of 1,713 shows already sold.
07:00 (IST) Sep 05
Sivakarthikeyan, Anushka Shetty Films Lock Horns at Box Office
September 5, 2025, turned into a thrilling day for South Indian cinema as Madharaasi and Ghaati hit theatres simultaneously, sparking an exciting box office battle. Fans of Sivakarthikeyan and Anushka Shetty flocked to screens, making the opening day feel like a festival across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
1 More Updates
The big screens lit up on September 5 as two major South Indian releases, Madharaasi and Ghaati, arrived together, setting the stage for one of the most exciting box-office clashes of the year.

In Madharaasi, director A. R. Murugadoss pairs up with Sivakarthikeyan for a tense action thriller. The film follows Raghu, an everyday man whose world unravels when his girlfriend Malathy, played by Rukmini Vasanth, gets trapped in the sinister games of a gun-smuggling syndicate. What begins as a fight to save his love soon pushes Raghu into a brutal underworld, where survival means facing enemies far bigger than himself. With Vidyut Jammwal and Biju Menon adding muscle and menace, the story blends emotional stakes with high-octane action, making it a gritty watch.

Across the border in Telugu cinema, Krish Jagarlamudi’s Ghaati brings a very different but equally intense tale. Anushka Shetty commands the screen as Sheelavathi, while Vikram Prabhu’s Desi Raju charts a powerful arc from victimhood to infamy. Wronged by fate, his transformation into a feared criminal—and eventual legend—raises questions about justice, destiny, and the choices we make. With strong performances by Jagapathi Babu and Chaitanya Rao Madadi, the drama cuts deep.

Together, both films promise audiences a weekend of raw emotion, gripping storytelling, and cinematic fireworks.