“It’s Not a Rivalry”: Shiva Rajkumar Dismisses Comparisons Between His Upcoming Film and Salman Khan’s Project

The Kannada film industry is buzzing with anticipation following the announcement of Shiva Rajkumar’s new pan-Indian project, Original Monster. However, the title has sparked immediate comparisons with a separate, reportedly titled project, Monster, starring Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. Addressing the chatter head-on, the legendary actor has clarified that there is no professional friction between the two stars.

Clearing the Air

In a recent statement provided to IANS during the title launch of Original Monster, the “Century Star” emphasized that the overlapping titles are merely a coincidence and do not signify a box-office clash.

“Salman’s Monster and Original Monster—both stories are completely different. It’s not Shiva vs. Salman; we are one,” Shiva Rajkumar asserted, putting an end to speculation regarding any potential rivalry.

Beyond dismissing the rumors, the actor hinted at a warm camaraderie, suggesting that the two icons could even share the screen in the future. “God willing, we will be working together. It might just happen,” he added, much to the excitement of fans across the country.

A Fierce Cinematic Vision

Shiva Rajkumar’s upcoming film, Original Monster, is being positioned as a high-octane pan-Indian action spectacle. The recently unveiled motion poster has already set a gritty tone, featuring the actor in a fierce, intense avatar—standing amidst total chaos, gripping a blood-soaked weapon.

The project boasts a formidable team, with director R. Chandru at the helm and producer Anand Pandit backing the venture. The film’s atmosphere is further elevated by a score from B. Ajaneesh Loknath, with cinematography handled by AJ Shetty.

Parallel Projects in the Pan-Indian Landscape

While Shiva Rajkumar prepares for his intense outing, Salman Khan’s project—tentatively titled Monster—is generating significant momentum of its own. The film, directed by Vamshi Paidipally and produced by Dil Raju, is slated to be a grand pan-Indian entertainer, with reports suggesting a theatrical release around Eid 2027. The project will feature the superstar alongside Nayanthara, who has been cast in the lead role.

As the industry tracks these two distinct projects, fans are eager to see how both films develop. Whether or not a collaboration between these two cinematic giants ever comes to fruition, it is clear that the stars themselves remain focused on their own unique narratives. For more details on the unfolding developments, you can read more about the Original Monster project and its distinct journey in the Indian film landscape.

In addition to his upcoming action role, Salman Khan continues to keep a packed schedule, with projects like Apoorva Lakhia’s Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace in the pipeline, alongside his continued role as the host of the hit reality show Bigg Boss.