The word “Monster” may soon be shared by two major Indian superstars, but Dr Shiva Rajkumar does not see that as a rivalry. During his Mumbai media interaction for Original Monster, the Kannada superstar was asked about Salman Khan’s upcoming pan-India film Monster and whether the two projects could spark a Salman Khan versus Shiva Rajkumar comparison.
Shiva immediately dismissed the idea of a clash, making it clear that the two films will have completely different stories. His response also carried a strong message of unity, with the actor stressing that there is no competition between the two projects simply because they share the same title. Asked about Salman Khan’s Monster, Shiva said, “No The stories will be different story 100% that will be really different. Uh it is not that nothing like that. We're all one.”
The veteran actor’s response comes as his own upcoming film officially carries the title Original Monster, or OM. Directed by R Chandru, the film has been unveiled as a big-budget pan-Indian action thriller featuring Shiva Rajkumar in a rugged and intense new avatar.
Meanwhile, Salman Khan’s Monster is being positioned as a large-scale pan-India action entertainer. Directed by Vamshi Paidipally and produced by Dil Raju under Sri Venkateswara Creations, the film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release during Eid 2027.
The shared word in the titles naturally became a talking point during Shiva’s interaction with the media. However, instead of feeding into a potential superstar-versus-superstar narrative, Shiva chose to focus on the differences between the two stories. His words, “The stories will be different 100%,” make his position clear. For the Kannada superstar, the title alone does not determine the nature of a film, and there is no reason for audiences or the industry to turn the projects into a competition.
The conversation then took an even more interesting turn when Shiva was asked whether he would consider collaborating with Salman Khan on a project someday. Rather than ruling it out, the actor left the door open and credited destiny and the wishes of audiences. “Uh I think if God wishes and all people wish might be one day we will,” Shiva said.
That one line has already given fans something to dream about. A collaboration between Shiva Rajkumar and Salman Khan would bring together two massive stars from different generations and film industries, potentially creating a truly pan-Indian cinematic event.
For now, however, both actors are focused on their respective projects. Shiva is gearing up for Original Monster, while Salman is preparing for Monster, which is expected to be one of the major theatrical releases of Eid 2027.
Original Monster is being produced by Yamuna Chandru under RC Studios and presented by Anand Pandit. R Chandru is directing the film, while B Ajaneesh Loknath is composing the music. The title reveal and motion poster have already introduced audiences to Shiva’s fierce new look. The makers of Original Monster have promised an ambitious action spectacle, and the first-look material has positioned Shiva in a dark and aggressive avatar. With the shoot now underway, expectations around the project are steadily building.
Salman Khan’s Monster, meanwhile, is also expected to operate on a huge canvas. With Dil Raju producing and Vamshi Paidipally directing, the project is being designed as a major pan-India release, making the decision to use the “Monster” title particularly intriguing in the current landscape.
Yet Shiva Rajkumar’s comments make it clear that there is no “versus” in his mind. “We’re all one,” he said, choosing camaraderie over competition.
That sentiment is perhaps even more interesting than the title coincidence itself. At a time when fans frequently turn similar projects into box-office battles, Shiva’s response offers a different perspective — two stars can tell two completely different stories and still celebrate each other’s work. And who knows? If Shiva’s wish comes true, audiences may eventually get to see the two superstars share the screen.
For now, there are two Monsters on the horizon, two different stories and two huge theatrical ambitions. But according to Shiva Rajkumar, there is certainly no war between them.