After an unexpected delay, Nandamuri Balakrishna has finally returned to the big screen with a bang. His much-anticipated action epic Akhanda 2: Thaandavam released in theatres this Friday and registered an impressive opening at the box office, giving fans plenty of reason to celebrate. The sequel’s arrival, though belated, has been nothing short of triumphant, reaffirming Balakrishna’s enduring star power.
According to trade tracking website Sacnilk.com, Akhanda 2 collected a strong ₹30.5 crore within its first day of release. The film earned nearly ₹8 crore from Thursday preview shows alone, followed by a massive ₹22 crore haul on Friday, its official release day. These figures underline the enormous anticipation surrounding the film, even after a week-long postponement that initially dampened excitement among fans.
The opening performance becomes even more striking when compared to the first installment. Akhanda, released in 2021, earned ₹15 crore on its opening day (Thursday) and added ₹6 crore on Friday. Over the course of nearly five weeks, the film went on to collect around ₹89 crore at the box office. With Akhanda 2 already crossing ₹30 crore on day one, trade analysts believe the sequel is well-positioned to outperform its predecessor in the coming weeks.
Balakrishna’s recent box-office track record further adds to the optimism. His last major release, Daaku Maharaj, achieved an impressive ₹100 crore net collection in India over a five-week theatrical run. Given the scale, buzz, and strong opening numbers of Akhanda 2, industry observers expect the film to mount a serious challenge to that benchmark, provided it maintains momentum through the crucial opening weekend.
Directed by Boyapati Srinu, Akhanda 2: Thaandavam is a sequel to the 2021 blockbuster Akhanda, a film that became a cultural phenomenon thanks to its high-octane action, spiritual undertones, and Balakrishna’s powerful dual-shaded performance. The sequel once again brings together the successful actor-director duo, raising expectations among fans who associate the combination with mass entertainment and thunderous dialogues.
Apart from Balakrishna in the lead, the film features Samyuktha, Aadhi Pinishetty, and Harshaali Malhotra in pivotal roles. Aadhi’s presence as a key antagonist has particularly drawn attention, while Samyuktha’s role adds emotional depth to the narrative. Harshaali Malhotra, known for her earlier performances as a child actor, also plays an important part in the story.
The film’s music, composed by Thaman S, has received a largely positive response from audiences and fans. Known for delivering powerful background scores in mass entertainers, Thaman’s music has once again amplified the film’s dramatic and action-packed moments, contributing to the overall theatrical experience.
However, Akhanda 2’s journey to the big screen was not without hurdles. Just hours before its originally scheduled release last Thursday, the makers shocked fans by announcing that the film would not be hitting theatres as planned. The sudden postponement sparked confusion and disappointment, especially among fans who had already made advance bookings and celebratory plans.
Distributor 14 Reels Plus later issued a public apology on X (formerly Twitter), explaining that despite their best efforts, unforeseen circumstances had forced them to delay the release. The statement thanked fans across the world for their patience, understanding, and unwavering support during the unexpected setback.
Although no official reason was initially disclosed, industry sources suggested that the delay was linked to an ongoing legal issue. Reports indicate that Eros International Media Limited had approached the Madras High Court over pending arbitration dues of over ₹28 crore, along with interest, allegedly owed by 14 Reels Entertainment for more than a decade. It is believed that the necessary legal clearance was finally granted just a day before the film’s eventual release, allowing it to reach theatres without further obstacles.
Despite these challenges, Akhanda 2: Thaandavam has managed to turn adversity into advantage, with its delayed release seemingly adding to the curiosity and anticipation. With a roaring start at the box office and strong fan backing, the film now looks set for a promising theatrical run in the days ahead.
