No China, no Gulf release - So how is Dhurandhar 2 breaking records globally?

The craze around Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar 2 is clearly visible at the box office. In just 11 days, the film has crossed a staggering Rs1,353.95 crore gross worldwide, emerging as one of Bollywood’s biggest hits ever. After two record-breaking weekends, the film continues to pull crowds even on weekdays, showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

For the first time in years, trade analysts believe that Dangal’s long-standing record as the biggest Indian film globally could be under threat. But what makes Dhurandhar 2’s success even more fascinating is this—it is challenging that record without releasing in two of the most crucial overseas markets: China and the Gulf region (GCC).

Why China and the Gulf Matter So Much

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)—which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—has a massive Indian diaspora, making it a key revenue driver for Indian films.

Similarly, China has proven to be a goldmine for select Indian films, thanks to strong emotional storytelling that resonates with audiences there. In fact, Dangal’s record-breaking Rs 2,000+ crore global haul was heavily dependent on overseas markets—over Rs 1,500 crore came from outside India. Of this, China alone contributed more than Rs 1,300 crore, while the GCC added over Rs 60 crore.

According to Sacnilk data, India contributed less than 26% to Dangal’s total worldwide earnings. Whether Dhurandhar 2 will release in China remains uncertain, especially given its strong anti-Pakistan narrative, which could affect approval there.

Still Winning Big Without China or GCC

Despite skipping these major markets, Dhurandhar 2 has already entered the list of top five highest-grossing Indian films overseas.

Top Overseas Grossers (in USD):

• Pathaan – $49.30 million
• Jawan – $48 million
• Baahubali 2 – $46.98 million
• Dhurandhar 2 – $32.70 million
• Dhurandhar – $32.60 million

However, if GCC collections are excluded, Dhurandhar 2 is rapidly catching up with the leaders:

Top Overseas Grossers (excluding GCC):

• Baahubali 2 – $36.65 million
• Pathaan – $35.10 million
• Dhurandhar 2 – $32.70 million
• Dhurandhar – $32.60 million
• Jawan – $30.30 million

Dominating the US and UK

In North America (US and Canada), Dhurandhar 2 has already broken Baahubali 2’s decade-old record within just nine days. While Baahubali 2 earned a little over $22 million, Dhurandhar 2 has crossed $23 million.

Interestingly, the makers did not opt for premium ticket pricing in the US, unlike many big-budget releases. Instead, higher footfall has driven the film’s success. A large Indian and Pakistani diaspora, combined with curiosity among international audiences, has boosted viewership. The film’s action and Aditya Dhar’s storytelling have also appealed to global audiences.

The UK is witnessing a similar trend, with the film earning £3.21 million in just 10 days—second only to Pathaan’s £4.38 million.

Strong Run Across Global Markets

From Australia to Europe, Dhurandhar 2 is setting benchmarks:

• Australia: AUD 6.37 million, surpassing Part 1
• New Zealand: $988K, nearing the $1 million mark
• Germany: €905K, now the highest-grossing Indian film there
• Hong Kong & Singapore: Chasing top records

The Bigger Picture

Back home, the film has already crossed Rs 1,000 crore in India within 11 days and is eyeing records set by Baahubali 2 (Rs 1,416 crore) and Pushpa 2 (Rs 1,470 crore).

The most remarkable aspect of Dhurandhar 2’s performance is that it is inching towards the Rs 2,000 crore global mark without China and GCC—markets that traditionally contribute massively to such milestones.

This proves one thing: when storytelling connects, Indian cinema can break barriers worldwide—even without its biggest overseas markets.