Mohanlal’s Thudarum Overtakes Chhaava to Become 2025’s Second Highest Overseas Grosser

In a major box office achievement, Malayalam superstar Mohanlal's latest film Thudarum has officially become the second highest-grossing Indian film overseas in 2025. Directed by Tharun Moorthy, the film has collected an impressive USD 10.6 million (approximately ₹90 crore) from international markets within just 17 days of release, narrowly edging past Vicky Kaushal’s period drama Chhaava, which had earned USD 10.5 million (₹89 crore).

The overseas success of Thudarum has taken industry observers by surprise, particularly since the film is rooted in regional themes and was primarily released in Malayalam. However, Mohanlal's widespread popularity and the rising global appetite for South Indian cinema — especially in regions like the Middle East, North America, and Europe — have helped the film resonate strongly with international audiences.

Domestically too, Thudarum is holding steady, with a box office tally of ₹98.75 crore in India, making it the third highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time.

While Thudarum now holds the second spot in the 2025 overseas box office rankings, the top position still belongs to L2: Empuraan — the much-anticipated sequel to Lucifer, also starring Mohanlal alongside Prithviraj Sukumaran. L2: Empuraan had shattered records earlier this year by earning USD 15.7 million (₹133 crore) internationally.

Meanwhile, Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava, based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, performed impressively overseas — especially in the U.S. and U.K. — and remains a colossal success with over ₹600 crore in total global earnings. However, it was Thudarum's emotionally resonant story and Mohanlal’s unmatched legacy that gave it a slight edge in the international market.

With both Thudarum and L2: Empuraan dominating the overseas charts, Mohanlal continues to assert his stature as the undisputed king of the Indian overseas box office in 2025. As more high-profile releases approach, all eyes are on whether any film can dethrone his reign in the global arena.