Direct Answer: The major movie releases for Diwali 2025 are shaping up to be a massive box office clash between two Bollywood titans: Salman Khan’s action-thriller ‘Sikandar’ and Akshay Kumar’s comedy ‘Housefull 5’. Both films are scheduled to hit theatres on Friday, October 31, 2025.
Diwali 2025 Movie Releases: Salman Khan’s ‘Sikandar’ vs Akshay Kumar’s ‘Housefull 5’ in an Epic Box Office Clash
The stage is set for one of the biggest box office battles in recent memory this Diwali. Two of Bollywood’s most bankable superstars, Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar, are set to go head-to-head as their highly anticipated films, ‘Sikandar’ and ‘Housefull 5’, are both slated for release on the festive weekend of October 31, 2025.
The Diwali holiday is traditionally the most lucrative release window in the Indian film calendar, and this clash of genres—a high-octane action thriller versus a slapstick comedy franchise—ensures that there will be something for every type of moviegoer. With both films backed by major studios and immense star power, the industry is gearing up for a firecracker of a weekend.
The Contenders
Sikandar (Action-Thriller)
Salman Khan returns to his home ground of festival action releases with ‘Sikandar’. The film promises to be a slick, modern action spectacle.
- Star Cast: Salman Khan, Rashmika Mandanna
- Director: A.R. Murugadoss (known for blockbusters like Ghajini)
- What to Expect: Directed by a master of the action genre, ‘Sikandar’ is expected to deliver high-octane action sequences, a gripping narrative, and Salman Khan’s signature larger-than-life on-screen presence. The film is touted to have a patriotic undertone and is aimed at the mass-market audience that flocks to theatres for a Salman Khan event film.
Housefull 5 (Comedy)
The comedy juggernaut is back. ‘Housefull 5’ is the fifth installment in one of Bollywood’s most successful and beloved comedy franchises.
- Star Cast: Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, and a massive ensemble cast.
- Director: Tarun Mansukhani
- What to Expect: Promising five times the madness,” the film will stick to its successful formula of slapstick humor, confusion, and a chaotic plotline. It is positioned as the perfect family-friendly entertainer for the holiday season, catering to the multiplex and family audience.
The South Indian Giant: Thalaivar 172
While the Bollywood clash will dominate the Hindi-speaking markets, the South Indian box office will be ruled by a single force: Rajinikanth.
- Movie: Thalaivar 172 (tentative title)
- Star Cast: Rajinikanth
- Director: Lokesh Kanagaraj
- What to Expect: Following the massive success of his previous films, director Lokesh Kanagaraj teams up with the superstar for what is expected to be a gritty and powerful action-drama. A Rajinikanth film release during Diwali is a festival in itself in Tamil Nadu and other southern states.
Who Will Win the Diwali Clash?
The ‘Sikandar’ vs ‘Housefull 5’ clash is a classic battle of genres. While ‘Sikandar’ will appeal to action lovers and the massive fan base of Salman Khan, ‘Housefull 5’ has the advantage of being a beloved comedy franchise and the go-to choice for families. Industry experts believe that while the opening day will be a close fight, the long-term winner will be determined by word-of-mouth. However, the extended Diwali holiday period is often big enough to accommodate two major films, and both will likely find their audience and achieve significant box office success.