Confusion continues to surround the proposed theater shutdown from June 1, 2025, with conflicting signals emerging from the Telugu film industry.
While a section of exhibitors has called for a bandh citing unresolved disputes over revenue-sharing, the broader film fraternity appears unconvinced, as several major releases are continuing with their promotional campaigns as planned.
Films like Bhairavam (May 30), Sashtipoorthi (May 30), and Thug Life (June 5) are all moving forward with their scheduled releases.
However, Pawan Kalyan’s Jana Sena Party claims there is more beneath the surface.
Party leaders allege that the bandh is part of a larger political conspiracy aimed at obstructing the release of Hari Hara Veera Mallu, the actor-politician’s much-anticipated period film slated for release on June 12, 2025.
Adding credibility to these suspicions, Andhra Pradesh Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh has instructed the State Home Secretary to launch an inquiry into the origins of the bandh call.
The minister has reportedly requested a thorough investigation to determine whether any political motives are behind attempts to disrupt the film’s release.
Now, both the industry and the public are left to wonder: Is there a deliberate conspiracy to sabotage Pawan Kalyan’s film, or is the controversy merely a calculated tactic to build pre-release hype?