India’s Biggest Piracy Insurance Case in the Making: Salman Khan’s ‘Sikandar’ Faces ₹91 Crore Loss Due to Piracy
Sajid Nadiadwala’s production house, Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. (NGEPL), is preparing to file a record-breaking piracy insurance claim of ₹91 crore for losses incurred due to the illegal distribution of the film Sikandar, starring Salman Khan. The film was released on March 30, 2025, and the claim is expected to be the biggest piracy-related insurance claim in Indian cinema history.
EY Audit Reveals Massive Piracy Losses
According to sources, internal discussions are underway at NGEPL regarding digital piracy insurance. Global consulting firm Ernst & Young (EY) was appointed to audit the impact of piracy. Their report concluded that piracy resulted in an estimated ₹91 crore in losses.
How Was the ₹91 Crore Figure Calculated?
Experts from the film industry state that the figure is based on extensive analysis. The evaluation included factors such as:
- Expected pre-release theatrical revenue,
- Seat occupancy data,
- Regional box office declines, and
- Tracing pirated versions on digital platforms.
A source clarified, “This is not a rough estimate but a reflection of actual lost potential revenue from theaters and digital platforms.”
When and How Was the Film Leaked?
The audit report revealed that pirated copies of Sikandar appeared within hours of release on Telegram groups and illegal streaming websites. In some instances, the film was leaked even before its official release.
Major leak sources included:
- Tamilrockers
- Movierulz
- Filmyzilla
- Multiple Telegram channels
These platforms offered full versions of the film for download and streaming.
What Was Different in the Pirated Version?
Insiders revealed that the pirated version included several scenes not present in the theatrical cut, such as:
- Sikandar’s interaction with medical students in Dharavi,
- A detailed flashback about Kamruddin’s illness,
- A sequence showing Rashmika’s ambition to become a lawyer,
- A pre-interval scene involving Vaidehi’s suicide attempt and Sikandar’s cab journey.
Additionally, the pirated version featured the original 1964 version of “Lag Ja Gale”, unlike the theatrical version sung by Iulia Vantur. Also, Salman Khan’s song “Ajeeb Dastaan” was missing in the pirated copy. This raises suspicion that the leak might have occurred post-CBFC clearance, possibly involving an insider.
Impact on Box Office Collection
Sikandar opened with ₹27.5 crore on Day 1 but saw a dip during weekdays, eventually ending its box office run at ₹103.45 crore. Trade analysts believe the film could have grossed significantly more if not for the piracy setback.
No Official Claim Filed Yet
A source from Bollywood Hungama stated, “As of now, no formal insurance claim has been filed. These are only internal discussions, and legal proceedings are yet to begin.” However, if NGEPL proceeds, this will become the largest piracy insurance case in Indian history.
Studios Getting Serious About Cyber Insurance
A digital expert remarked, “Studios are now taking cyber insurance seriously, which is a positive sign for the industry.” So far, there has been no official statement from Sajid Nadiadwala or NGEPL regarding the issue.
