Pawan Kalyan Slams Tollywood Silence; Allu Aravind Fires Back Over Theatre Shutdown Drama
A storm is brewing in Tollywood.
Deputy Chief Minister and actor Pawan Kalyan has publicly expressed deep disappointment with the Telugu film industry, accusing it of ignoring the Andhra Pradesh government’s support and failing to pay a courtesy visit to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu—even a year after the coalition government assumed power.
In a scathing rebuke, Pawan questioned whether the industry had forgotten how the coalition stepped in to protect it during a turbulent time under the previous regime. He warned that such indifference might not go unanswered: “If the industry doesn’t acknowledge the government’s support, we know how to respond accordingly,” he said.
Industry Tensions Peak Ahead of Film Release
The remarks come at a sensitive time—coinciding with the upcoming release of Pawan’s much-anticipated film Hari Hara Veera Mallu. In a controversial twist, an announcement to shut down theatres around the same time has sparked heated speculation about infighting and deeper issues within the industry.
Allu Aravind Breaks Silence
Veteran producer Allu Aravind addressed the controversy head-on in a media interaction. Calling the theatre closure decision “reckless,” Aravind expressed surprise and dismay at the move being made during the release window of a leader who has long supported the industry.
“No representatives from cinema bodies have even attempted to meet with government officials,” he said, questioning the inconsistency of their approach compared to the past. “When the previous government was in power and people were facing trouble, they ran to the Chief Minister’s office. What’s stopping them now?”
Who’s Really Running the Show?
Addressing rumors of an elite circle controlling industry decisions, Aravind made a pointed clarification: “I’m not part of any so-called group of four—or ten. Please don’t include me in those conversations.”
He also took a step back from active theatre management, revealing that of the 1,500 theatres in Andhra Pradesh, he only oversees 15—and is phasing those out. “I’ve already instructed my team not to renew the leases,” he confirmed.
Aravind supported the AP minister’s take on the shutdown issue, calling it sensible and grounded. He revealed that although three meetings were held to discuss the closures, he deliberately chose not to attend, asking his colleagues to do the same.
“How can anyone unilaterally announce a theatre shutdown from the first of the month? Are they trying to threaten or corner Pawan Kalyan?” Aravind asked, visibly frustrated.
Dialogue Over Division
Both leaders—despite being on opposite sides of the current debate—agreed on one point: the need for open dialogue and unity. Aravind urged producers, distributors, and exhibitors to resolve differences internally before causing larger disruptions in the industry.
