Theater Bandh threatens Hari Hara Veera Mallu release

A potential shutdown of single-screen theaters across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana has stirred controversy, with serious concerns looming over the release of Pawan Kalyan’s much-awaited historical epic, Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1 – Sword vs Spirit, set for release on June 12, 2025.

The bandh call, reportedly spearheaded by a section of theater owners, is rooted in a long-standing dispute over revenue-sharing models.

Exhibitors are demanding a shift from the existing rental-based system to a percentage-sharing model, which they argue is more sustainable. The decision gained momentum following a contentious meeting on May 20, 2025, involving leading producers such as Dil Raju and Suresh Babu, where no resolution was reached.

Although the bandh was initially proposed for June 1, 2025, it was deferred after partial negotiations. But some see there is a conspiracy to stop the release of “Hari Hara Veera Mallu.”

Political motives?

Leaders of Pawan Kalyan’s Jana Sena Party have expressed deep suspicion about the timing of the proposed bandh.

Directed by Krish Jagarlamudi and A.M. Jyothi Krishna, the film casts Pawan Kalyan as Veera Mallu, a 17th-century rebel hero navigating the politics of the Mughal Empire.

The ambitious period film, produced by A.M. Rathnam and A. Dayakar Rao under Mega Surya Productions, features a strong ensemble including Bobby Deol, Nidhhi Agerwal, and Nora Fatehi, with music composed by M.M. Keeravani.

Sources close to the production confirm that the team is worried about how the renewed bandh threat could derail crucial marketing plans, including trailer and music releases in the lead-up to the premiere.

Financial lressure!

While some have linked the bandh to broader industry financial tensions, others see a more coordinated effort at play. Hari Hara Veera Mallu producer A.M. Rathnam had earlier denied rumors of financial distress, praising Pawan Kalyan for even returning his signing amount in 2023 to help ease the film’s burden. Insiders claim the film’s scale and Kalyan’s stature have unsettled competing producers aligned with opposing political camps.

The Telugu Film Producers Council has appealed to exhibitors to reconsider the bandh.

For now, all eyes are on the exhibitors, the producers, and the Deputy CM himself — as one of the most anticipated films of the year risks becoming collateral damage in a much bigger battle.