Following the release of the trailer for "The Raja Saab," starring Prabhas, enthusiastic fans surprised director Maruthi with a gesture of appreciation: a delivery of homemade biryani. The trailer, which dropped on December 29, 2025, has generated significant buzz online, with particular attention being paid to Prabhas's striking new avatar and the film's overall aesthetic.

The trailer offers a glimpse into the high-voltage world of "The Raja Saab," showcasing Prabhas in multiple intense roles. While plot details remain under wraps, the trailer emphasizes mood and scale, building anticipation through sharp visuals and an ominous atmosphere. Prabhas appears in different shades throughout the trailer, hinting at a character layered with grandeur, menace, and unpredictability. The final moments of the trailer unveil Prabhas in a dark, theatrical look, sharply contrasting his earlier appearances, which has especially captured the attention of fans.

Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions to the trailer, with many viewers describing Prabhas's final look as "fire" and a "goosebumps" moment, predicting a thunderous response in theaters. Some fans have even compared the styling to a Joker-inspired persona, praising its eerie edge and dramatic flair.

Beyond the excitement surrounding Prabhas's appearance, fans have also applauded the actor for continuing to reinvent himself. Despite his superstardom, many have noted that Prabhas consistently experiments with new characters and visual identities. This willingness to take creative risks has resonated with fans, who see "The Raja Saab" as another example of his ability to surprise audiences.

However, the trailer has not been without its critics. Some viewers argue that it relies too heavily on actual movie footage, leaving little to the imagination. Others have described the trailer as "overstuffed" and "too revealing," suggesting that it spoils key sequences and diminishes the element of suspense. Despite this criticism, many fans defend the trailer, arguing that its energetic and larger-than-life visuals capture the essence of the film. Prabhas's "Joker-inspired look," in particular, has become a major talking point, with supporters praising the bold choice and theatrical flair.

Adding another layer to the online conversation, some fans are linking Prabhas's Joker-esque look to a statement made by Arshad Warsi in 2024 regarding Prabhas's portrayal in "Kalki 2898 AD". Some fans believe that Prabhas has turned the criticism into a bold visual statement.

Despite the mixed reactions to the trailer's content, the excitement surrounding "The Raja Saab" remains high. The film is slated for a grand Sankranthi release on January 9, 2026. Directed by Maruthi, the film also stars Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Malavika Mohanan, and Nidhhi Agerwal.