Published: September 7, 2025
Pawan Kalyan, the Telugu cinema superstar and political figure, is making waves with his highly anticipated action thriller They Call Him OG, set to release on September 25, 2025. Directed by Sujeeth, known for Saaho, this film marks Kalyan’s grand return to the silver screen after a hiatus focused on his political career. With its explosive pre-release buzz, record-breaking advance bookings, and unprecedented global fan engagement, They Call Him OG is poised to redefine the international reach of Telugu cinema.
Record-Breaking Pre-Sales in North America
The film has already achieved a remarkable milestone in North America, amassing over $1 million in pre-sale ticket bookings, a rare feat for a Telugu film. This figure underscores the massive diaspora following that Pawan Kalyan commands, particularly in the United States, where fans have flocked to secure seats for premiere shows. Major cinema chains across the U.S. have reported sold-out screenings, with additional showtimes being added to meet the overwhelming demand. Industry analysts predict that They Call Him OG could surpass previous Telugu blockbusters like Baahubali 2 and RRR in terms of opening day collections in North America.
Sold-Out Merchandise and Fan Frenzy
The excitement surrounding They Call Him OG extends beyond ticket sales. Official merchandise, including t-shirts, posters, and collectibles featuring Pawan Kalyan’s iconic look from the film, has completely sold out within hours of release. The merchandise, launched as part of the film’s aggressive marketing campaign, has become a hot commodity among fans, further amplifying the movie’s hype. Social media platforms, particularly X, have been flooded with fan posts, fan-made trailers, and countdowns to the release date, with hashtags like #OGStorm and #PawanKalyan trending globally. This level of engagement highlights the star’s unparalleled popularity and the film’s cultural impact.
Emraan Hashmi’s Telugu Debut and Stellar Cast
Adding to the film’s allure is the Telugu debut of Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi, who plays a pivotal role alongside Pawan Kalyan. Known for his intense performances in films like Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, Hashmi’s entry into Tollywood has generated significant buzz, appealing to audiences across India. The film also stars Priyanka Mohan as the female lead, with a supporting cast that includes Prakash Raj, Sriya Reddy, and Arjun Das, promising a powerhouse of performances. The combination of Kalyan’s larger-than-life persona and Hashmi’s nuanced acting is expected to create a dynamic on-screen rivalry.
Sujeeth’s Vision and High-Octane Action
Director Sujeeth has crafted They Call Him OG as a gritty action thriller with a global appeal, blending high-octane stunts, emotional depth, and a pulsating soundtrack by Thaman S. The film’s teasers and promotional materials showcase Pawan Kalyan in a fierce, stylish avatar, hinting at a narrative centered around a relentless protagonist taking on a formidable crime syndicate. Sujeeth’s vision, combined with top-tier production values from DVV Entertainment, positions They Call Him OG as a visual spectacle that could rival Hollywood action films.
A Milestone for Telugu Cinema
The global anticipation for They Call Him OG reflects the growing international influence of Telugu cinema. Following the success of films like Baahubali and RRR, which elevated Tollywood’s profile on the world stage, They Call Him OG is set to further this legacy. The film’s pre-release success in markets like the U.S., U.K., Australia, and the Middle East underscores the expanding diaspora audience and the universal appeal of Pawan Kalyan’s star power. Trade experts predict that the film could gross over ₹500 crore worldwide, potentially making it one of the biggest Telugu films of 2025.
Pawan Kalyan’s Triumphant Return
For Pawan Kalyan, They Call Him OG represents more than just a cinematic comeback; it’s a testament to his enduring popularity and influence. After dedicating years to his political career as the leader of the Jana Sena Party and serving as a key political figure in Andhra Pradesh, Kalyan’s return to films has been met with unparalleled enthusiasm. Fans view the film as a celebration of his legacy as a cultural icon, blending his signature intensity with a modern, globalized cinematic approach.
What’s Next?
As the release date approaches, the They Call Him OG team is ramping up promotions with grand premieres planned in Hyderabad, Mumbai, and select international cities. The film’s soundtrack, featuring chart-topping singles, has already gone viral, adding to the excitement. With its record-breaking pre-sales, sold-out merchandise, and massive social media traction, They Call Him OG is not just a film but a cultural phenomenon that promises to leave a lasting mark on Indian cinema.
Stay tuned to NRI Globe for exclusive updates on They Call Him OG and Pawan Kalyan’s journey as the film storms theaters worldwide on September 25, 2025.
