Why the Raftaar 2026 Release Date Just Moved to Dussehra
If you’ve been marking your calendar for Rajkummar Rao’s next big thriller, you might want to grab an eraser. Most of us were expecting Raftaar to hit screens this July, but the producers just pulled a classic scheduling pivot. It’s always a bit annoying when a highly anticipated project moves, but there’s a solid strategy behind why we’re waiting a few extra months for this startup drama.
What’s the deal with the new timeline?
The Raftaar 2026 release date details have officially shifted from July 24 to October 16, 2026. By moving to the Dussehra weekend, the film is clearly chasing that massive holiday footfall. It’s a smart play—this isn't just a small indie film; it’s a high-stakes "unicorn" startup story that needs a big audience to land its message about corporate greed.
What we know about the plot
Produced by Patralekhaa, the movie follows the meteoric rise and inevitable "faster crashes" of an ed-tech startup. Think of it as a cautionary tale about the "get rich quick" culture currently gripping India.
The Power Duo: This is the first time we’re seeing Rajkummar Rao and Keerthy Suresh together. Rao plays a visionary-turned-tycoon, while Suresh acts as the moral anchor.
The Tech Angle: It’s being described as a "Kampa Film ed-tech startup drama," looking at the dark side of venture capital and boardroom warfare.
Platform News: While it’s hitting theaters first, Amazon MGM Studios and Prime Video have already locked in the digital rights.
Just to clear up any confusion: this is a dramatic feature film directed by Aditya Nimbalkar, not a biopic or a musical project involving the rapper Raftaar.
Personal Opinion
I’ve noticed that Rajkummar Rao always shines when he plays characters who are slightly morally compromised. Pairing him with Keerthy Suresh—who is a powerhouse in South Indian cinema—gives this a massive "Pan-India" appeal without feeling forced. Honestly, I’d rather wait until October for a polished theatrical experience than see it rushed out in a crowded July window.
If you’re looking for a deeper breakdown of the production and the full cast list, I’ve put together a more technical look at the project. You can check it out here: The Complete Guide to Rajkummar Rao and Keerthy Suresh’s Startup Thriller Raftaar
Final Verdict: High Anticipation
Should You Watch? If you liked Scam 1992 or The Social Network, this is right up your alley. Who Should Watch? Aspiring entrepreneurs, corporate junkies, and fans of intense character-driven dramas. Theatre or OTT? Definitely a theatre watch for the tension, but it’ll likely find a huge second life on Prime Video.