In response to recent speculation and reports indicating a potential shutdown of theaters across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, particularly ahead of the release of Pawan Kalyan's highly anticipated film, 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu', producer Dil Raju has firmly denied these rumors. On May 26, 2025, Dil Raju addressed the media to clarify the situation, countering the circulating claims and assuring the public that no such shutdown is planned.
The controversy arose amidst concerns from exhibitors regarding revenue sharing models and other industry-related issues. Reports suggested that some exhibitors were contemplating a shutdown from June 1st, a move that would directly impact the release of 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu', slated for June 12th. This sparked a reaction from Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, who also expressed his discontent.
Dil Raju, who is also the chairman of the Telangana State Film Development Corporation, refuted these rumors, labeling them as false propaganda fueled by vested interests. He stated firmly that "no one has the guts or courage to stop Pawan Kalyan's films," emphasizing that the issues raised by exhibitors were being misrepresented as a targeted campaign against Pawan Kalyan's movie. He clarified that he wasn't part of any meeting that decided to shut down theaters, and the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce gave no such signal.
He further elaborated on the concerns raised by exhibitors, particularly those from the East Godavari district, who approached producers in April citing financial struggles. These exhibitors have been advocating for a shift to a fixed percentage model for revenue sharing, which they believe would ease their financial burden. Dil Raju acknowledged that discussions are ongoing to find a better solution, but a consensus has not yet been reached, stating that a lack of unity within the industry is a core issue.
Dil Raju also addressed the Andhra Pradesh government's reaction to the rumors. Tourism and Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh, a member of Pawan Kalyan's Jana Sena party, alleged a conspiracy behind the shutdown call and called for an investigation. Pawan Kalyan himself issued a statement criticizing the industry for a perceived lack of respect towards the TDP-led NDA government. Dil Raju clarified that these developments were likely due to miscommunication and that some individuals had fed the government misleading information, either out of devotion or fear. He stated that he had spoken with Minister Durgesh, who confirmed that theaters would not be closed.
Dil Raju highlighted the upcoming releases of several significant films, including 'Bhairava' on May 30th, a Kamal Haasan film on June 5th, Pawan Kalyan's 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' on June 12th, and 'Kubera' on June 20th, questioning the logic behind a theater shutdown at such a time. He emphasized that closing theaters would only hurt the exhibitors themselves, especially with such promising films on the horizon.
Furthermore, Dil Raju criticized the media for projecting the producers' and theater exhibitors' meetings as a call for a theater strike, stating that the strike plan was never finalized and was just a proposal. He also addressed concerns over theatre ownership, explaining that out of the 370 single-screen theaters in the Nizam region, only 30 are operated by his companies, with the majority being managed by independent owners.
In conclusion, Dil Raju firmly denied the rumors of a theater shutdown and assured everyone that Pawan Kalyan's film release would proceed as planned. He attributed the controversy to miscommunication, vested interests, and a lack of unity within the film industry, urging all stakeholders to focus on facts and work together to resolve the ongoing issues faced by exhibitors.
