Andhra Pradesh Minister’s Support for Rajinikanth’s Coolie Ignites Fan Wars as War 2 Lags in Advance Bookings

Published on August 10, 2025, by Masala Mirror

Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh – A seemingly innocent tweet by Andhra Pradesh IT and Human Resource Development Minister Nara Lokesh congratulating Rajinikanth on his 50 years in the film industry has stirred a social media storm, intensifying the already heated rivalry between two major upcoming films, Coolie and War 2. The tweet, posted on August 9, 2025, has sparked controversy among fans of Jr NTR, whose film War 2 is set to clash with Rajinikanth’s Coolie at the box office on August 14, 2025.

The Tweet That Started It All

On August 9, 2025, Nara Lokesh took to X to celebrate Rajinikanth’s milestone, writing:

“As @rajinikanth sir completes 50 years in films, we audiences are just lucky to live in the Rajni-era! I will never forget his unwavering support to our family in our darkest hour. Wishing Team #Coolie great success.” []

While the tweet appeared to be a heartfelt gesture, it quickly drew ire from a section of Jr NTR’s fans, who interpreted it as Lokesh openly favoring Coolie over War 2, a film featuring the Telugu superstar. The timing of the tweet, just days before the Independence Day box office showdown, added fuel to the fire, with fans accusing Lokesh of ignoring War 2 despite its significance in the Telugu states.

Coolie vs. War 2: The Box Office Battle

Both Coolie and War 2 are set to release on August 14, 2025, capitalizing on the extended Independence Day weekend. Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, Coolie stars Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna, Upendra, and Shruti Haasan, with a rumored cameo by Aamir Khan. The film has already generated massive buzz, with advance bookings in India reaching ₹16.15 crore, including ₹10 crore in Tamil and ₹6 crore in block bookings.

In contrast, War 2, directed by Ayan Mukerji and starring Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani, has lagged behind with advance sales of just ₹1.22 crore in India. Despite being part of the YRF Spy Universe and featuring high-octane action, the film’s pre-release buzz has been overshadowed by Coolie’s momentum, particularly in the Telugu states and overseas markets.

The clash has sparked intense fan wars on social media, with supporters of Coolie touting Rajinikanth’s legendary status and War 2 fans banking on the film’s modern action appeal and Jr NTR’s star power in the South. The controversy surrounding Lokesh’s tweet has only amplified these tensions, with some fans speculating a political angle to his support for Coolie.

Fan Reactions and Political Speculations

The backlash from Jr NTR’s fans stems from the perception that Lokesh, a prominent figure in Andhra Pradesh politics, should have remained neutral given War 2’s strong Telugu connection through Jr NTR. Some fans expressed their disappointment on X, arguing that Lokesh’s tweet was insensitive to the Telugu film industry. One user wrote, “Why support Coolie when War 2 has our own NTR? This is a slap to Telugu pride!” Others, however, defended Lokesh, noting that his tweet was a personal gesture toward Rajinikanth, who supported his family during tough times.

Speculations of a political motive have also surfaced, with some suggesting that Lokesh’s tweet aligns with the Telugu Desam Party’s (TDP) interests in promoting Coolie’s Telugu theatrical rights, which were sold for a staggering ₹44 crore. In contrast, War 2 has yet to secure a theatrical deal in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with Yash Raj Films opting for a self-release in these regions.

The Bigger Picture: A Clash of Titans

The Coolie vs. War 2 rivalry is being billed as one of the biggest box office clashes of 2025. Coolie, backed by Sun Pictures, has garnered significant hype due to its star-studded cast, Lokesh Kanagaraj’s directorial reputation, and Rajinikanth’s milestone 50-year career. The film’s trailer, while criticized by some for lacking action, has intrigued audiences with its emotional depth and subtle narrative hints.

Meanwhile, War 2, the sixth installment in the YRF Spy Universe, promises big-budget visuals and stylized action sequences, with Hrithik Roshan reprising his role as a superspy and Jr NTR playing the chief antagonist. Despite its star power, the film’s promotional campaign has been quieter, with no posters or teasers released yet, contributing to its lower advance booking numbers.

Aamir Khan’s Alleged Involvement Adds Fuel

Adding to the drama, reports suggest that Aamir Khan, who has a cameo in Coolie, contacted PVR-Inox boss Ajay Bijli to secure more screens for the film’s Hindi version, potentially at the expense of War 2. This move has further polarized fans, with some praising Aamir’s commitment to Coolie and others accusing him of undermining War 2’s prospects. However, Aamir’s team has denied involvement in the film’s distribution, clarifying that he has not made any calls to exhibitors.

Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Social Media Break

Amid the escalating fan wars and controversy, Coolie director Lokesh Kanagaraj announced a temporary break from social media to focus on the film’s post-production. In a post on X, he stated, “Hey guys! I’m taking a small break from all the social media platforms until #Coolie’s promotions. With Love, Lokesh Kanagaraj.” Some speculate that this move was to avoid the growing negativity surrounding the Coolie vs. War 2 clash, while others believe it reflects his focus on delivering a cinematic spectacle.

What’s Next for the Box Office Showdown?

With just four days left until the release, the Coolie vs. War 2 clash is shaping up to be a battle of star power, fan loyalty, and strategic promotions. Coolie’s strong advance bookings and Rajinikanth’s enduring appeal give it an edge, particularly in Tamil Nadu and overseas markets. However, War 2’s potential to dominate North India and leverage Jr NTR’s Telugu fanbase could make it a formidable contender.

As the controversy over Nara Lokesh’s tweet continues to trend on X, it underscores the passionate fan culture in Indian cinema and the high stakes of this box office face-off. Whether Coolie’s emotional storytelling or War 2’s action-packed spectacle will win over audiences remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: theaters will be packed this Independence Day weekend.