The highly-anticipated Telugu film Akhanda 2 of Nandamuri Balakrishna has been indefinitely postponed, just a day ahead of its scheduled worldwide release on December 5. Due to continuous legal issues, the sudden delay has disappointed fans and the entire film fraternity, as the sequel was considered one of the most-awaited projects by Balakrishna. Production company 14 Reels Plus is yet to announce a new date for the release. Samyuktha and Harshaali Malhotra will be seen in pivotal roles in the film.
Akhanda 2 Release Pulled Back at the Last Minute
On Thursday 4 December, 14 Reels Plus issued an official statement on X confirming the movie would not hit theaters as planned and cited “unavoidable circumstances” for the abrupt postponement.
Their post read, “It is with a heavy heart that we regret to inform you that #Akhanda2 will not be releasing as scheduled due to unavoidable circumstances. This is a painful moment for us and we truly understand the disappointment it brings to every fan and movie lover awaiting the film. We are working tirelessly to resolve the matter at the earliest. Our sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused. Your support means the world to us. We promise to share a positive update very soon (sic).”
Trouble Begins for Akhanda 2 in the Telugu States
The first signs of trouble started when confusion had spread over the advance bookings across Telugu states, especially in the Nizam area. Exhibitors said they were unaware of the screening schedules, and fans also kept checking the ticketing apps for any updates.
Although all these issues were tried to be sorted by the production team, the problems remained. Paid premieres, scheduled for December 4, were eventually cancelled, which indeed reflected serious complications behind the screen. Even overseas screenings are not happening because Key Delivery Messages, or KDMs, necessary for digital projection, were issued, leading to further cancellations and rising uncertainty.
It was also reported that 14 Reels Plus was facing severe financial stress owing to some previous projects which did not turn out well. While sudden financial shocks are not alien to the Telugu film industry, the last-minute postponement of a big-ticket film like Akhanda 2 was unexpected and unprecedented.
Why the Film Akhanda 2 Hit a Legal Block in Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, the film faced a major legal hurdle following a dispute involving Eros International Media Limited. The case went up to the Madras High Court, and an interim order was issued by a division bench comprising Justice SM Subramaniam and Justice C Kumarappan staying its release.
The injunction was related to an arbitration dispute dating back between 14 Reels Entertainment Private Limited over ₹28 crores. Eros contended in court that 14 Reels Plus LLP, a sister company, planned to release Akhanda 2 to override the arbitration award and further delay payment.
Eros, testifying before the court, said, Eros argued that this was an indirect attempt to flout the arbitral award and avoid compliance with legally determined financial obligations.
After consideration of the case, the court prohibited any release, distribution, or commercial use of the movie until further orders. Awaiting New Release Date The film’s release has come to a grinding halt with financial troubles in the Telugu states and a legal block out in Tamil Nadu. The team of 14 Reels Plus is yet to announce a revised release date for Akhanda 2.
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