Is Manikanda Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Manikanda is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 159 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Manikanda Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2007, Manikanda enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Based in Mumbai, Raja (Arjun) lives a violent yet poor lifestyle along with his father, Banwarilal. Under the direction of Selva, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Arjun Sarja. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Manikanda offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. While the 4K mastering highlights the production value, the pacing during its 159-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Manikanda resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Manikanda is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Manikanda centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Based in Mumbai, Raja (Arjun) lives a violent yet poor lifestyle along with his father, Banwarilal. He meets with and comes to the rescue of Madurai/Mahendrapur-based belle, Mahalakshmi/Madhumita (Jyotika), and both fall in love with each other. When she returns home, her dad (Ashish Vidyarthi) finds that she is in love with Raja, instantly approves of him, and asks her to invite him, which she does. Raja accordingly arrives to meet her family - and it is this arrival that will pit him against goons dispatched by none other than Mahalakshmi's dad, who wants him dead - at any and all costs. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2007 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Manikanda has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Manikanda sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Manikanda (2007): with an audience rating of 3.2/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Action cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Manikanda Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $500,000 |
| Worldwide Gross | $500,000 |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Manikanda Budget
The estimated production budget for Manikanda is $500,000. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Manikanda has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Drama, Action), viewers should expect violence, action sequences.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3.2/10, and global collection metrics, Manikanda stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2007 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manikanda movie hit or flop?
Manikanda is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.2/10 and lower collections.
Is Manikanda worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.2/10, Manikanda may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Manikanda online?
Manikanda may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Manikanda movie hit or flop?
Manikanda is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.2/10 and lower collections.
Is Manikanda worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.2/10, Manikanda may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Manikanda online?
Manikanda may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of Manikanda?
Manikanda is a Drama, Action movie that follows: Based in Mumbai, Raja (Arjun) lives a violent yet poor lifestyle along with his father, Banwarilal. He meets with and comes to the rescue of Madurai/Mahendrapur-based belle, Mahalakshmi/Madhumita (Jyo...
Is Manikanda family friendly?
Manikanda is classified as Drama, Action. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is Manikanda available in?
Manikanda is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Based in Mumbai, Raja (Arjun) lives a violent yet poor lifestyle along with his father, Banwarilal. He meets with and comes to the rescue of Madurai/Mahendrapur-based belle, Mahalakshmi/Madhumita (Jyotika), and both fall in love with each other. When she returns home, her dad (Ashish Vidyarthi) finds that she is in love with Raja, instantly approves of him, and asks her to invite him, which she does. Raja accordingly arrives to meet her family - and it is this arrival that will pit him against goons dispatched by none other than Mahalakshmi's dad, who wants him dead - at any and all costs.
Critic Reviews
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