May 26, 2025: A heated row has erupted in the Telugu film industry after actor and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan criticised the industry’s lack of respect for the Andhra Pradesh government. His remarks follow ongoing talks about a possible theatre bandh from June 1, led by exhibitors from both Telugu-speaking states.
The bandh discussions were triggered by a demand for reforms in the revenue-sharing system between theatre owners and producers. However, the timing of this proposed shutdown—coinciding with the scheduled release of Pawan Kalyan’s long-delayed film Hari Hara Veera Mallu (HHVM) on June 12—sparked allegations that the film was being unfairly targeted.
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Pawan Kalyan Calls Out the Industry
On Saturday, Pawan Kalyan strongly criticised the film industry’s inaction in engaging with the government. “At a time when the government is considering giving industry status and improving conditions for filmmakers, the industry doesn’t even show basic respect or gratitude,” he said, noting that no one from the film chamber has met AP CM N Chandrababu Naidu since he assumed office.
Although he didn’t directly address the proposed bandh, the implications for his film’s release were clear.
Allu Aravind Questions Timing of Theatre Bandh
On Sunday, Allu Aravind, veteran producer and relative of both Pawan Kalyan and actor Chiranjeevi, echoed the criticism. He questioned the motives behind the bandh, saying, “When Pawan Kalyan’s film is about to release, how do you call for a theatre bandh?” He recalled how Pawan once urged industry members to meet the CM for ticket price hikes, but “no one bothered to follow through.”
Aravind criticised the industry’s double standards, asking, “If this is purely a private business, why did the same people meet the former CM for help? Don’t we owe the current government the same respect?”
Dil Raju Downplays Conflict as Miscommunication
Meanwhile, Dil Raju, producer and Telangana Film Development Corporation Chairman, addressed the issue in a press conference held in Hyderabad on Monday. Calling the controversy a case of miscommunication, he explained that the bandh talks originated with East Godavari exhibitors on April 19 over revenue models—not as an attack on HHVM.
He clarified that the film was not targeted and that “the release date of HHVM wasn’t even fixed when this began.” He added, “Kalyan garu is justified in his anger, but this narrative has been blown out of proportion. The chamber should’ve clarified things earlier. The media also escalated the issue with misleading headlines.”
Raju lamented the lack of unity in the industry, noting, “Ideally, Allu Aravind garu and I should’ve addressed this together. Unfortunately, there’s no unity in the industry right now.”
Industry Divided, Cryptic Remarks Surface
Adding fuel to the fire, producer Naga Vamsi posted a cryptic comment on social media, saying, “Unnecessary issues created at times when focus was needed elsewhere have led to much bigger problems… if only common sense had taken the driver’s seat.”
As internal rifts and public blame games continue, the larger question of the industry’s relationship with the Andhra Pradesh government remains unresolved. With Hari Hara Veera Mallu set for release in June, all eyes are on whether unity can be restored—or if deeper divides will be exposed.