A big shock to Balakrishna fans. The chances of the highly anticipated film Akhanda 2 getting premiere shows are almost zero. In both Telugu states — Andhra Pradesh as well as Telangana — the possibility of special shows seems doubtful. Because till now, in Telangana, ticket bookings for premiere shows as well as regular shows have not opened. The reason is that the Madras High Court has issued a stay on the release of this film. Even though the makers sought permission for special shows at a ticket rate of six hundred rupees in both Telugu states, now there seems to be no possibility of those shows happening, say Tollywood sources. Eros International, the production company, approached the Madras High Court seeking to stop the release of Akhanda 2 Tandavam. They filed a petition stating that 14 Reels Entertainment owes them ₹28 crore, and that the same people are now making films under the name “14 Reels Plus.” They requested that the release of Akhanda 2 be halted until the amount due is paid. After examining the matter, the court delivered a verdict in favor of Eros International. Reports say that orders have been issued to stop the release of Akhanda 2.
However, the two production houses are holding discussions to resolve the issue. Even without special shows, those monitoring the situation say there is a high chance that the film will release on Friday if the issue gets settled. Akhanda 2 Tandavam is Balakrishna’s first pan-India film. The obstacles it is facing have shocked his fans. This is the fourth film coming in the Nandamuri Balakrishna–director Boyapati Srinu combination. Since Akhanda performed strongly at the box office, huge expectations have built up for Akhanda 2 Tandavam as well. Eros International had earlier collaborated with 14 Reels to produce 1: Nenokkadine and Aagadu. Ram Achanta, Gopi Achanta, and Anil Sunkara were the producers of those films. Both movies did not achieve the expected success at the box office. After that, Ram Achanta and Gopi Achanta separately established another production house named “14 Reels Plus,” under which they have been making movies. Akhanda 2 has now been produced under this banner. But Eros alleges that the producers still owe them nearly ₹28 crore related to the films made under the earlier “14 Reels” banner. Tollywood sources say that by Thursday night, the matter is likely to be settled, and there is a strong chance for the film to release on Friday.