Theater Bandh: ‘Aa Naluguru’ backstabbing Hari Hara Veera Mallu?

A bandh has been called by exhibitors in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, halting movie screenings across the two Telugu states starting June 1st. The demand? A shift from the current rental model to a percentage-based revenue-sharing system with theater owners. 

While active producers in the Telugu film industry have declined to accept this proposal, exhibitors are pushing ahead with plans to shut down theaters as announced.

Who’s backstabbing Pawan Kalyan?

Pawan Kalyan’s much-awaited film “Hari Hara Veera Mallu” is scheduled for release on June 12th. Industry insiders point fingers at a powerful lobby, often referred to as “Aa Naluguru” (The Four), who are believed to control much of the distribution and theater ecosystem in the Telugu states. This group is said to be behind the sudden call for the bandh—ironically, many of them have previously benefitted from Pawan Kalyan.

A delegation of key industry figures—including Dil Raju, Suresh Babu, Allu Aravind, Ashwini Dutt, and Supriya—met with Pawan Kalyan after he assumed office as Deputy Chief Minister. He reportedly assured them of his support for the growth of the Telugu film industry, even permitting ticket price hikes for several films at their request. Notably, some of these very individuals are said to be part of “Aa Naluguru.” So why the sudden roadblock for “Hari Hara Veera Mallu”?

Political lobby?

There is growing speculation that one or two members of this influential group are acting on the instructions of a powerful figure with whom they reportedly share a ‘special’ relationship. This has led to accusations of betrayal—why turn against Pawan Kalyan despite all the support and favors received?

Questionable timing

The demand for a percentage-based system isn’t new—it’s been a topic of debate for years. But the timing of this theater bandh, conveniently aligning with the release of a major Pawan Kalyan film, raises serious questions about the real motives behind the move.

It’s also worth noting that many of the theaters controlled by these “Aa Naluguru” members are not actually owned by them—they are leased properties. If the real owners decide to support the government’s stance, what impact will that have on the power these individuals currently wield?