Pawan Kalyan: ‘This industry fed me, I will stand by it’

At the press meet of “Hari Hara Veera Mallu” held ahead of the film’s grand pre-release event, Power Star Pawan Kalyan spoke from the heart. He opened up not just about cinema, but about loyalty, respect, and his deep connection to the film industry,

The actor-politician reserved special praise for producer A.M. Ratnam, crediting him as a visionary who elevated regional cinema to the national stage.

Dharma at its core

“Hari Hara Veera Mallu,” directed by Krish Jagarlamudi and A.M. Jyothi Krishna, features Pawan Kalyan as a fearless warrior fighting for Dharma. The film also stars Nidhhi Agerwal and Bobby Deol, and is presented by A.M. Ratnam under Mega Surya Productions, with A. Dayakar Rao producing. Set for release on July 24, the historical action drama has already generated huge buzz, thanks to its powerful trailer and promotional campaign.

Known for avoiding film-related media interactions, Pawan Kalyan made an exception for this occasion.

“I rarely talk about movies in the media. It doesn’t come naturally to me. But this press meet is different—it’s for A.M. Ratnam garu. This film must live. I may not get another chance to speak like this.”

He shared a poignant dialogue from Agnyaathavaasi that encapsulated the journey of making this film: “‘Sometimes, you must fight an entire war for a small comfort.’ That’s what filmmaking feels like — a constant battle, financially and creatively.”

Tribute to A.M. Ratnam

Pawan Kalyan spoke in glowing terms about Ratnam: “Before I entered the industry, I dreamt of working with someone like him. He brought regional cinema to national attention. During Kushi, pre-production was done a month in advance because of his planning.”

Despite the pandemic and numerous setbacks, Ratnam’s persistence moved the actor: “I saw him struggle, and that pain stayed with me. This isn’t about money—it’s about standing by your people.”

“I recommended Ratnam garu as Chairman of the Film Development Corporation—not because he’s my producer, but because he’s an asset to Indian cinema.”

The actor revealed that he shot the climax for 57 days during peak summer, making use of his martial arts training. “I worked closely with choreographers. I designed the climax sequence myself. It is the soul of the film.”

A journey of the Kohinoor

Pawan Kalyan highlighted the unique concept crafted by Krish Jagarlamudi, centered around the Kohinoor diamond’s fictional journey from Koti Lingala to the Hyderabad Sultans. Though Krish couldn’t complete the film, the actor credited him for sowing the seed of the story.

Praise for Nidhhi Agerwal

He acknowledged the immense efforts of co-director Jyothi Krishna, cinematographer Manoj Paramahamsa, and music composer M.M. Keeravaani, who “breathed life into the film.” He also praised Nidhhi Agerwal for shouldering promotional responsibilities and staying committed throughout the film’s long journey.

This industry fed me: Pawan Kalyan

Pawan Kalyan became emotional when reflecting on the state of the industry and his own journey: “I came here despite a tight political schedule and criticism, because this industry fed me. Cinema has no caste, religion, or region. That’s why I respect it deeply.”