Kabir Khan: Why is ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ still cherished in 2025?
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Synopsis
Discover how Kabir Khan's 2012 blockbuster ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ continues to resonate with audiences in 2025, earning a prestigious spot at the International Spy Museum alongside Hollywood legends. This enduring love for the film highlights its impact beyond box office success.
Key Takeaways
- ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ is the only Indian film at the International Spy Museum.
- Directed by Kabir Khan, it released in 2012.
- The film's success goes beyond box office earnings.
- It marked the start of YRF's ambitious spy universe.
- A lasting legacy continues to capture audiences' imaginations.
Mumbai, Sep 9 (NationPress) As “Ek Tha Tiger” stands as the sole Indian film honored alongside James Bond and Mission Impossible at the International Spy Museum, a thrilled filmmaker Kabir Khan expressed that his greatest joy is witnessing the enduring affection for his 2012 film even in 2025.
Kabir shared his excitement on Instagram, posting a collection of articles highlighting how the Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif-led 2012 action thriller is showcased next to iconic franchises like James Bond and Mission Impossible in Washington DC.
He emphasized that a film's genuine success transcends box office earnings; it lies in its lasting impact on audiences.
Reflecting on his blockbuster Ek Tha Tiger, he wrote: “A film is never solely about its box office revenue. It's about how long it captures the imaginations of viewers.”
He continued: “In that respect, Ek Tha Tiger persists. While it was a major box office hit upon its 2012 release, my heart swells knowing it's still cherished in 2025. Tiger humesha zinda rahega…”
Ek Tha Tiger features a talented cast including Ranvir Shorey, Roshan Seth, Girish Karnad, and Gavie Chahal.
The film narrates the story of an Indian intelligence officer, codenamed Tiger, who is dispatched to Dublin to surveil a professor suspected of leaking nuclear secrets to Pakistan. During the assignment, Tiger falls in love with the professor's caretaker, Zoya, who harbors her own secrets.
Ek Tha Tiger signified the inception of YRF's ambitious spy universe, which later expanded with Tiger Zinda Hai, War, Pathaan, and Tiger 3.
Following the success of Ek Tha Tiger, Kabir and Salman Khan collaborated again for films such as Bajrangi Bhaijaan in 2015 and Tubelight in 2017.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the lasting impact of films like ‘Ek Tha Tiger’. Kabir Khan's reflection underscores a broader truth in cinema: lasting success isn't merely measured by box office figures but through the emotional connections forged with audiences. This narrative resonates with the nation's pride in its film industry's achievements.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ about?
‘Ek Tha Tiger’ tells the story of an Indian spy, codenamed Tiger, who is sent to Dublin to observe a professor suspected of leaking nuclear secrets, leading to a romantic entanglement with his caretaker.
Who directed ‘Ek Tha Tiger’?
The film was directed by Kabir Khan and released in 2012.
Why is ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ significant?
The film is notable for being the only Indian movie featured at the International Spy Museum, alongside iconic franchises like James Bond and Mission Impossible.
How did ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ perform at the box office?
Upon its release, ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ was one of the highest-grossing films of 2012, contributing to its enduring legacy.
What films followed ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ in YRF's spy universe?
The film marked the beginning of YRF's spy universe, which expanded with sequels and related films such as ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’, ‘War’, ‘Pathaan’, and ‘Tiger 3’.
