Sky Force Box Office Collection Day 1: Akshay Kumar’s Action Drama Opens Strong but Trails Behind Fighter
Akshay Kumar kickstarts 2025 with his much-anticipated action-drama Sky Force, released on January 24, 2025. The film, directed by Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani, has created waves for its compelling storyline, action-packed sequences, and star-studded cast, including Sara Ali Khan, Nimrit Kaur, and Bollywood debutant Veer Pahariya. Based on India’s historic retaliatory airstrike on Pakistan’s Sargodha airbase during the Indo-Pakistani war of 1965, Sky Force brings an intense tale of heroism to the big screen.
Sky Force: Plot and Buzz
Sky Force recounts India’s first-ever airstrike and celebrates the unsung heroes of the war. Akshay Kumar plays Wing Commander K.O. Ahuja, a character inspired by Group Captain O.P. Taneja. Veer Pahariya, making his Bollywood debut, portrays Squadron Leader T. Vijaya, based on the real-life hero Squadron Leader A.B. Devaiah. The film also highlights the emotional aftermath of war, focusing on the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families.
The gripping trailer, released earlier this month, showcased Veer Pahariya and Sara Ali Khan’s on-screen chemistry, generating significant buzz among fans. Netizens have been showering praise on Sara Ali Khan’s performance, with many calling it one of her best roles to date.
Sky Force Box Office Collection Day 1: A Decent Start
Opening with Rs 3.78 crores in advance bookings, Sky Force recorded a double-digit start at the box office. According to reports by Sacnilk, the film collected Rs 11.25 crores on its first day, making it the highest opening for any Bollywood film in 2025 so far.
While the opening numbers are impressive, Sky Force fell short of beating Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone’s Fighter, which amassed Rs 22.5 crores on its first day.
Records and Audience Response
Despite trailing behind Fighter, Sky Force has set a benchmark as the highest-opening Bollywood film of 2025 to date. Its strong start, coupled with positive audience reactions, hints at a promising box office journey in the coming days.
Akshay Kumar, in an interview with HT City, shared his thoughts on the film’s historical significance:
“Everyone declared him (Sqd. Ldr. A.B. Devaiah) a traitor, and for 23 years, nobody knew that he was actually a hero. The whole film is not just about war; it’s also about what happens to the family and children left behind.”
Comparisons with Fighter
The frequent comparisons between Sky Force and Fighter continue to dominate social media. However, while Fighter had a stronger opening, Sky Force has been lauded for its emotional depth, stellar performances, and historical accuracy.
What’s Next for Sky Force?
As the weekend approaches, all eyes are on Sky Force to see if it can maintain its momentum and grow its box office collection. With strong word of mouth and Akshay Kumar’s star power, the film is expected to perform well during its first week.
