“Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” Shatters Box Office Records in India and the US
Updated on: September 15, 2025
In a remarkable turn of events, “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle” has emerged as a box office juggernaut, outperforming major Bollywood and Tollywood films in India. The anime film, which debuted in North America this past weekend, has not only captivated audiences but also set new records, marking a significant milestone for the anime genre in the Indian market.
A Historic Opening in India
“Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” is the first installment in a planned trilogy that aims to conclude the beloved “Kimetsu no Yaiba” arc. Released in Japan in July, the film has already made waves, breaking numerous box office records. According to Sacnilk, the film grossed an impressive ₹40 crore (approximately $4.8 million) in its opening weekend in India, surpassing the recent performance of Tiger Shroff’s “Baaghi 4,” which earned ₹31 crore (around $3.7 million) in its debut.
This achievement is particularly noteworthy given that even Sunny Deol’s “Jaat,” which had been a box office success earlier this year, managed only ₹23 crore (approximately $2.8 million). The success of an anime film outpacing major action films featuring well-known stars is unprecedented in the Indian cinema landscape, suggesting a growing acceptance and enthusiasm for the anime genre among Indian audiences.
Dominating the North American Box Office
The film’s success is not limited to India. In North America, “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” has also made a significant impact, grossing $70 million in its opening weekend. This figure marks the highest opening for an anime film in the US, eclipsing the previous record held by “Pokémon: The First Movie,” which debuted with $31 million in 1999. The film’s success has positioned it as the number one film at the North American box office, outperforming other major releases such as “The Conjuring: Last Rites” and “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale.”
As of now, the global box office total for “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” stands at nearly $353 million, solidifying its status as one of the most successful films of the year. This remarkable performance underscores the increasing popularity of anime not just in Japan, but also in international markets.
The Rise of Anime in India
The success of “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” in India is indicative of a broader trend. Over the past few years, anime has gained significant traction among Indian audiences, with streaming platforms like Netflix and Crunchyroll making a wide array of titles accessible. The rise of anime conventions and fan communities across the country further illustrates this growing interest.
Historically, Indian cinema has been dominated by Bollywood and regional films, with limited space for genres like anime. However, the success of films like “Demon Slayer” suggests a shift in consumer preferences. The film’s ability to resonate with Indian audiences can be attributed to its compelling storytelling, rich character development, and stunning animation, elements that have long been hallmarks of successful cinema.
Cultural Impact and Future Prospects
The success of “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” raises important questions about the future of anime in India. As audiences become more receptive to diverse storytelling formats, it opens the door for more anime films to be released in theaters. This could lead to a more vibrant cultural exchange between Japan and India, fostering collaborations that blend storytelling techniques and artistic styles.
Moreover, the film’s success may encourage Indian filmmakers to explore anime-inspired narratives, potentially leading to a new genre of Indian animation that could capture both domestic and international audiences.
Conclusion
“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle” has not only shattered box office records in India and the US but has also paved the way for a new era of anime in the Indian film industry. Its unprecedented success highlights a growing acceptance of diverse cinematic experiences among Indian audiences. As the film continues to perform well globally, it stands as a testament to the universal appeal of well-crafted storytelling, regardless of its origin. The future looks bright for anime in India, and “Demon Slayer” may very well be the catalyst for this exciting transformation.
