Telugu star Vijay Deverakonda, who’s been facing a tough run at the box office with his recent films Khushi, Liger, and 'The Family Star', is eyeing a strong comeback with his upcoming action-packed film 'Kingdom'. Directed by Gautham Tinnanuri, known for 'Jersey' and 'Malli Raava', the film is all set to hit screens on July 31, 2025, but only in South Indian languages, skipping a Hindi theatrical release entirely.

Netflix’s Role in the Hindi Version Delay

While the film was initially planned for a pan-India release, even teasing a Hindi title 'Saamraajya' in its early promotional material, the makers have now decided against releasing the movie theatrically in Hindi. Industry insiders say this shift is closely tied to the OTT strategy involving Netflix, which has acquired the film’s post-theatrical digital rights.

According to sources, Netflix did not prefer a Hindi theatrical release, primarily due to the film’s delayed schedule. Kingdom had already missed its release window twice, leading to a reassessment of how the Hindi version would be positioned. Instead, the Hindi version will premiere directly on Netflix after the film completes its theatrical run in the South.

High Stakes and Heavy Hype for Vijay’s Return

Produced by Naga Vamsi under Sithara Entertainments, and co-produced by acclaimed director Trivikram Srinivas, 'Kingdom' is touted as a stylish action drama with high-end VFX. Anirudh Ravichander, who’s scoring the music, is said to be one of the main reasons for the film’s delay due to his extensive background work.

Speaking about his role in the film, Vijay Deverakonda shared, “When I decided to team up with Gautham Tinnanuri, I had two scripts to choose from. But the moment I came to know that a big production house known to him was already making a film on that subject, he chose Kingdom.” He will be seen in a cop role for the first time, embarking on a high-stakes mission — and insiders reveal that the story is rooted in reincarnation, a twist not explicitly revealed in trailers.

New Pairing and Visual Grandeur

The film also introduces Bhagyashree Borse (of Mr. Bachchan fame) as the female lead opposite Vijay, marking their first on-screen pairing. From the visuals released so far, the film’s heavy investment in VFX and cinematic aesthetics is apparent, signaling a grand-scale narrative.

With 'Kingdom', Vijay hopes to reclaim his standing as a box office draw. But while fans in the South will catch the action in cinemas, Hindi-speaking audiences will have to wait for its digital debut on Netflix.