Part 2s: Telugu top stars are losing interest in sequels!

It has become a trend among directors and producers to split their stories into two parts, often ending the first installment abruptly, asking audiences to wait for the “real story” in the sequel. This lazy narrative device has lost its charm. While this formula worked wonders for Baahubali, KGF, and Pushpa, it was largely because the cliffhangers in those films were compelling and the anticipation for their second parts was massive.

More importantly, filmmakers like Rajamouli, Prashanth Neel, and Sukumar didn’t take up any other project after the release of Baahubali Part 1, KGF Chapter 1, and Pushpa: The Rise. Even the stars — Prabhas, Yash, and Allu Arjun — stayed committed to their respective sequels. This made audiences believe that the decision to split the stories was genuine. Naturally, the sequels became massive pan-India blockbusters, setting new benchmarks.

Prabhas himself became wary of Part 2s

However, by the time “Salaar” released, Prabhas had already grown wary of back-to-back sequels. He moved on to other projects, pushing “Salaar 2” to a later date. He followed the same pattern with “Kalki 2898 AD.” Despite “Kalki” being a huge blockbuster, he didn’t immediately commit to its sequel either. As of now, there is no clarity on when “Kalki 2” or “Salaar 2” will begin production.

Instead, Prabhas has kept himself busy with new films like The Raja Saab, Hanu Raghavapudi’s next, and soon, Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit. Even if he begins work on “Kalki 2” and “Salaar 2” after Spirit, will the audience retain the same level of excitement they had for “Baahubali 2”? That’s a question only time can answer.

Will Devara 2 happen?

NTR and Koratala Siva’s “Devara” faced a fair amount of criticism upon release, but the film turned out to be a massive hit, grossing over Rs 450 crore worldwide. Yet, NTR hasn’t shown any urgency to begin “Devara 2.” Though he has repeatedly said that it will happen soon, his upcoming slate suggests otherwise.

With “War 2” set to release next, he will then shift focus to completing Dragon with Prashanth Neel, which is expected in June 2026. Post that, he will begin his first mythological film with Trivikram. NTR has already started studying texts about Lord Murugan (Lord Kartikeya) to prepare for the role. Even if “Devara 2” releases after these two projects, will people still be interested?

The Hari Hara Veera Mallu fiasco

The film “Hari Hara Veera Mallu,” originally written and directed by Krish, was one of Pawan Kalyan’s most delayed projects. Frustrated with the lack of progress, Krish decided to split the story into two parts, hoping to wrap up the first part quickly. But even that didn’t work out, and he eventually exited the project. AM Jothi Krishna stepped in and completed it.

When “Hari Hara Veera Mallu Part 1” finally released, the biggest criticism was that it ended abruptly and the second half had no real story. The criticism about tacky visual effects was another factor. The film bombed. Whether Part 2 will ever happen remains a big question mark.

Kingdom 2 faces the same fate

Director Gowtam Tinnanuri made a strategic blunder by splitting “Kingdom” into two parts. The first half began on a solid note but fizzled out in the second, as the main story was held back for the sequel. The result? A weak overall impact and failure to become a blockbuster. It’s doubtful the producer will risk making “Kingdom 2” now.

Meanwhile, Vijay Deverakonda has already moved on with new projects directed by Ravi Kiran Kola and Rahul Sankrityan.

The Bottom Line

This growing trend indicates that Telugu stars themselves are becoming hesitant about committing to sequels right away. The fatigue among audiences and the inability of some directors to deliver a gripping first part are making everyone, both stars and producers alike, rethink the whole “Part 2” strategy.

By: Jalapathy Gudelli