60 shows, ₹9 lakh opening: the impossible story of Hanuman Ansh, now on Sony LIV

Streaming surprise

A film made on just ₹2.5 crore reportedly went on to earn ₹450 crore, and now it's coming to OTT! Hanuman Ansh, the Neem Karoli Baba biopic that emerged as one of 2026's biggest sleeper hits, is set to premiere on Sony LIV on November 27. After its theatrical release on August 7, the film continued drawing audiences for over 90 days. But what makes its journey remarkable is how a modest production turned into an extraordinary box-office success story.

Box-office miracle

Just 60 shows, an opening collection of ₹9 lakh and a reported lifetime success of ₹450 crore! Hanuman Ansh began its theatrical journey with limited screenings and little indication of the success that would follow. Positive word of mouth reportedly transformed the Neem Karoli Baba biopic into one of the highest-grossing Hindi films of 2026. Even after 90 days, the film continued running in select theatres. But its remarkable commercial journey wasn't the only story making headlines.

Producer showdown

A ₹450-crore blockbuster and a disagreement among its own makers? Hanuman Ansh reportedly ran into controversy after 21-year-old producer Anupriya Nagar attracted widespread attention for her involvement in the film. Other makers reportedly questioned the publicity surrounding her role. Director Vishal Chaturvedi and producer Namrata Singh subsequently issued a public statement asserting their authority over the film's PR, marketing and partnerships. The dispute has raised questions about control over the successful film.

Trilogy uncertainty

A ₹450-crore success was supposed to be just the beginning! Hanuman Ansh was reportedly envisioned as the first instalment of a three-film franchise exploring different aspects of Neem Karoli Baba's life. However, disagreements among the makers have cast uncertainty over those ambitions. In a public statement, the film's representatives stressed that no individual could independently negotiate its rights. With the OTT release approaching, will the planned sequels move forward?