In a surprising twist of events in the release schedule of Tollywood, the highly anticipated sequel Akhanda 2 – Thaandavam, featuring Nandamuri Balakrishna, is likely to delay its release date. The movie, which was originally scheduled to release on the 25th of September 2025, is reportedly now considering alternative dates so that it does not face a fierce box office competition from Pawan Kalyan’s OG, which is also targeting a release on the same date.
Though there has been no official word on the change of heart, sources from within the production reveal that the team is also seriously contemplating December or Sankranthi 2026 as the new window of release. If decided, this step would be a strategic one in not dividing the audience market and maximizing the reach of the film.
Sequel of a Mass Blockbuster
Akhanda 2 – Thaandavam has huge expectations riding on it not just because it stars Balakrishna, but also because it is the proper sequel to Akhanda of 2021, a movie that restored Balakrishna’s box office fame and grossed over ₹130 crores across the globe. Helmed by Boyapati Srinu, Akhanda became a huge mass action hit, particularly remembered for Balakrishna’s intense performance of the Aghora-inspirationsignified title character.
The producers of the sequel have already performed the pooja ceremony, and as expected, shooting is reportedly on schedule. The Balakrishna-Boyapati combination has been one of the most successful ones in recent Tollywood and, of course, Akhanda 2 has turned out to be one of the most awaited sequels in Telugu cinema.
The Threat of a Mega Clash
Yet, the happiness of the fans has arrived with a twist. According to industry gossip, Pawan Kalyan’s OG is now slated for the same date — September 25th. With the huge fan base of both the actors, an outright clash would be a split in the screen space, audience, and box office figures. This would be a scenario that neither side appears to want to happen.
Such conflicts are uncommon but not unknown in Telugu cinema. They tend to contribute to unwanted mayhem and financial strain, however, for producers and distributors alike. Telugu film producers have, more recently, come to exercise greater caution, realizing that bringing out two large films on the same day tends to contribute to diluted collections as well as mixed returns, irrespective of how good the content happens to be.
While fans of the two actors have begun debating the potential conflict on social media, production teams are working behind the scenes in silence to sort out the conflict by scheduling the release dates separately.
December and Sankranthi in the Picture
If media reports are to be believed, the producers of Akhanda 2 are seriously considering a December release. Surprisingly, the original Akhanda also released in December (2021) and became a superhit. That emotion, along with year-end holiday benefits, could be the perfect combination for replicating the success.
But there’s a twist too. Prabhas’ highly anticipated romantic fantasy The Raja Saab is also eyeing a release on December 5th. With Prabhas enjoying a global fan following, particularly in the pan-India market, a battle with The Raja Saab would also threaten Akhanda 2. So, the Christmas or even Sankranthi 2026 window is being considered the safer choice.
Sankranthi historically is the peak festival period for Telugu cinema, and Balakrishna himself has had the taste of several hits on Sankranthi releases. But the fight on Sankranthi will also be stiff, with several films generally competing for few theaters and show timings.
So, let us wait and see if the team bets on the December nostalgia of the original Akhanda or makes the *high-stakes Sankranthi bet.
A High-Stakes Decision Ahead
While fans eagerly await an official confirmation from the makers, trade analysts believe that a well-spaced release strategy would benefit both Akhanda 2 and OG. Instead of competing for screens and collections, staggering the releases would allow both films to maximize their reach and profits.
The stakes are high. Akhanda 2 is expected to feature high-octane action, spiritual undertones, and Boyapati’s signature mass elements, making it a festival favorite. Delaying the release to December or January will also give the production team ample time for VFX, post-production polishing, and grand promotions—something that will only boost the film’s final output.
For now, the Tollywood calendar is on tenterhooks, as Balakrishna’s fans, Pawan Kalyan’s fans, and Prabhas’s fans are waiting for confirmations regarding their respective release dates. One thing is sure: the latter part of 2025 is going to be a roller-coaster ride for Telugu film enthusiasts, with a string of biggies waiting to make their impact.
Read Also :- Vishwambhara Release in Limbo: Can Chiranjeevi’s Fantasy Epic Find Its Spot?
Conclusion
Akhanda 2 – Thaandavam is a movie that comes with huge expectations, both as a sequel and a Balakrishna-Boyapati film. But the situation now is a clear case of astute scheduling vs. obstinate release plans. With OG and The Raja Saab both targeting crucial dates around its original release plan, the team behind Akhanda 2 appears prudent in thinking of a postponement.
Whether it falls during December’s holiday season or the festive Sankranthi slot, one thing is definite: Akhanda 2 will come with thunder, and the fans will be primed to roar once more. The wait goes on until then, with the industry eagerly awaiting the next official announcement.
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