Yash Raj Films is known for its unconventional promotional strategies, especially when it comes to their blockbuster Spy Universe. Continuing that trend, YRF has devised a unique plan for War 2, starring Hrithik Roshan and NTR Jr., but the move hasn’t entirely gone down well with fans.
As per industry insiders, the makers have decided that Hrithik and NTR will not be seen together during any promotional activity before the film’s release. Both stars will promote War 2 separately — no joint interviews, no shared stage appearances, and no promotional videos together.
The reason behind this calculated move is to preserve the cinematic experience. War 2 marks the first-ever face-off between Hrithik and NTR, promising one of the most intense rivalries Indian cinema has seen. YRF believes that maintaining this tension off-screen will amplify the audience’s excitement in theatres.
“YRF sees the Hrithik-NTR conflict as the biggest USP of War 2. They want the audience to first witness their deadly showdown on the big screen before seeing them together off it,” reveals a trade source.
However, the fan response to this strategy has been mixed, with a section expressing disappointment. While some admire YRF’s commitment to building suspense, others feel deprived of the rare opportunity to see two massive stars share the stage — something fans have eagerly waited for ever since War 2 was announced. On social media, reactions range from excitement to frustration, with some even calling the plan “below-par” and “unnecessary” in today’s marketing era.
This isn’t the first time YRF has opted for such an approach. For War (2019), Hrithik and Tiger Shroff were seen together only after the film’s release. In Pathaan, Shah Rukh Khan skipped pre-release events entirely.
Directed by Ayan Mukerji, War 2 is set for a grand release on August 14, 2025. Produced by Aditya Chopra, the film also features Kiara Advani in a deadly new avatar as part of the YRF Spy Universe.
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