RajaSaab 2 Circus 1935: Prabhas' Joker Pivot and the 1930s Horror Bet

The credits for The Raja Saab haven’t even finished rolling, and the industry is already spiraling over the sequel announcement. While the first film leaned into ancestral havelis and family curses, RajaSaab 2: Circus 1935 is a total cultural reset. It’s moving away from the "Sankranthi family entertainer" vibe and diving straight into a vintage, high-concept nightmare.

What Actually Happened?

Immediately following the climax of The Raja Saab (released January 9, 2026), a title card confirmed the sequel: RajaSaab 2: Circus 1935. Director Maruthi has clarified that this isn't a direct sequel following Raju’s journey but an expansion of the universe set in the 1930s.

The Insider Take

This is a calculated response to the "repetitive" tag Prabhas has been dodging. The "Joker" aesthetic mentioned by insiders isn't just a random choice—it’s a direct clapback to the 2024 Arshad Warsi controversy that lived rent-free in the fandom's head. By leaning into a theatrical, clown-masked persona, Prabhas is taking the "Joker" insult and turning it into a high-fashion horror aesthetic. However, the news that they might repurpose "unused footage" from the first film is a major red flag. It suggests the sequel might be a patchwork project rather than a ground-up masterpiece.

Why This Matters for the Franchise

The circus era of the 1930s is a goldmine for "vintage horror" that Indian cinema rarely touches. If Maruthi pulls this off, he creates a horror anthology brand similar to American Horror Story, where Prabhas can play different characters in different eras. If he fails, it’ll look like a desperate attempt to milk the Prabhas "Rebel Star" brand without a coherent script.

What Fans Are Missing

The 1935 timeline isn't just for "vintage vibes." History buffs know that 1935 was a pivotal year for Indian cinema and circus culture. Expect the sequel to dive into "Tantric Circus" lore—where the supernatural isn't just in a house, but is part of the performance. The sequel is essentially the "villain origin story" of the dark magic we saw in the first film.

QUICK FACTS

• Tentative Release Date: TBD (Expected Late 2027/Early 2028)

• Setting: 1930s Circus Backdrop

• Starring: Prabhas (Confirmed)

• Director: Maruthi

• Production Status: Pre-production / Narrative Planning

  
  

Fans Also Asked

Q: When is the RajaSaab 2: Circus 1935 release date? A: There is no official release date yet. Given Prabhas’ busy schedule and Maruthi’s assessment of the first film's reception, a late 2027 or 2028 release is the most realistic industry prediction.

Q: Is RajaSaab 2 a direct sequel to the first movie? A: No, director Maruthi has stated it is not a direct continuation. It will feature a new narrative and setup, essentially acting as an expansion of the horror universe established in the 2026 film.

Q: Will Prabhas wear a Joker look in RajaSaab 2? A: Industry insiders and brief flashes in promotional material suggest a "Joker-inspired" or highly theatrical makeup look. This is seen as a creative response to previous social media trolls and fits the 1935 circus theme.

Q: What is the plot of Circus 1935? A: While specifics are under wraps, the film will explore supernatural elements within a vintage circus setting. It is expected to delve into the origins of the dark arts and mythology introduced in The Raja Saab.