When a film connects with both mass audiences and critics, it doesn’t just earn money — it makes a statement. That’s exactly what Pawan Kalyan’s “They Call Him OG” has done. In just eleven days since its release on September 25, 2025, this Telugu action thriller has grossed over ₹308 crore worldwide, proving that the star’s charisma and fan following remain unmatched.
The film, produced by DVV Entertainment and directed by Sujeeth, features Kalyan as a retired gangster returning to the world he left behind. It’s a tale of revenge, legacy, and raw power — told with cinematic confidence and emotional grit. The storyline may not be revolutionary, but it carries the kind of energy Telugu audiences crave.
Box Office Breakdown: Home Turf and Overseas Triumph
“They Call Him OG” has dominated the Telugu markets, earning about ₹155 crore from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana alone. That’s nearly half of its total earnings. What’s even more impressive is its strong overseas performance.
The movie performed exceptionally well in North America, where it crossed the $4 million mark by Day 2. Trade analysts credit the surge to Pawan Kalyan’s cult following among Indian audiences abroad. With consistent footfalls and repeat viewings, the overseas share has become a major contributor to the overall ₹308 crore total.
The film’s production cost was around ₹250 crore, and it managed to recover nearly 64% of that by Day 7, according to industry trackers. By the end of its second weekend, OG had comfortably entered the ₹300 crore club, outpacing several big releases of 2025.
“We knew Pawan Kalyan’s screen presence would pull crowds, but the global response has been beyond expectations,” said a spokesperson from DVV Entertainment. “OG has proved that story and star power can coexist beautifully.”
Week Two Challenge: Facing “Kantara: Chapter 1”
No film journey is without bumps, and OG hit its first slowdown in Week Two, facing competition from “Kantara: Chapter 1.” The Rishab Shetty sequel drew massive crowds in Karnataka and across multiplex circuits, slightly cutting into OG’s ticket sales.
Still, trade experts believe OG’s fall was minor compared to average box office trends. “A dip after the first week is natural, especially for action-heavy films,” said film analyst Ramesh Bala. “But OG has shown remarkable hold in urban centers and Tier-2 towns. That indicates strong word of mouth.”
The X-Factor: Pawan Kalyan’s Aura
Pawan Kalyan isn’t just an actor; he’s a movement. His fan base operates more like a community than a fandom. Every dialogue, every frame, and every moment of OG carries that unmistakable Kalyan touch.
Audiences have praised his restrained performance — a balance between stoic silence and controlled rage. Many fans online are calling this his “best mass role since Gabbar Singh.” Director Sujeeth, who earlier helmed “Saaho,” seems to have crafted a narrative that lets Kalyan’s personality breathe rather than overpower the story.
Mixed Reviews, Solid Business
Critics have given the film mixed responses. Some called it “stylish but uneven,” while others appreciated its technical polish, background score, and action choreography. Still, the audience response has been largely positive. Cinema halls in Hyderabad, Vizag, and Vijayawada continued to report near-full shows through the first weekend.
Even with a few narrative flaws, OG has worked because it feels confident and cinematic. The combination of Pawan Kalyan’s charm, Sujeeth’s visual style, and Thaman’s thumping soundtrack has turned it into a crowd magnet.
Future Outlook: The Road Ahead
With ₹308 crore already in the bag, analysts estimate that “They Call Him OG” could end its run between ₹350 crore and ₹380 crore if it maintains its current momentum. The film has also sparked talks of a potential sequel or spin-off, possibly introducing Pawan Kalyan’s son Akira Nandan into the franchise, as hinted by the director.
Beyond the box office, OG has reignited discussions about Kalyan’s dual life as an actor and political leader. Industry insiders believe that this success might strengthen his influence in both domains. For Telugu cinema, the film’s performance is yet another reminder that mass-commercial storytelling still holds the biggest draw.
“OG is not just a hit, it’s a declaration,” said one senior distributor. “Pawan Kalyan doesn’t chase trends. He sets them.”
Final Thoughts
“They Call Him OG” isn’t perfect, but it’s powerful. It carries the flavor of old-school Telugu action wrapped in new-age style. It roars loud without losing its emotional edge. The visuals are grand, the action feels gritty, and the star at its center commands every scene with quiet authority.
As the film inches toward higher milestones, one thing is clear — Pawan Kalyan has once again reminded everyone why he’s still called the Original Gangster of Telugu cinema.