Hyderabad, India : Just one day after its grand theatrical release on December 12, 2025, Akhanda 2: Thaandavam has stormed cinemas across India and beyond, reigniting the mass mania that made the 2021 original Akhanda a blockbuster. Directed by Boyapati Sreenu and starring Nandamuri Balakrishna in dual (and arguably triple) roles, this fantasy action thriller sequel amplifies the spiritual warfare, high-octane stunts, and devotional fervor that defined its predecessor. With a runtime of 165 minutes and released in 2D and 3D formats across multiple languages (Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam), the film has already sparked polarized reactions – fans turning theaters into festivals, while critics call it a “loud mess.”
Akhanda 2: Thaandavam picks up in the mystical universe of the first film, where Balakrishna reprises his roles as the divine Aghora warrior Akhanda Rudra Sikandar Aghora and his twin, Bala Murali Krishna. The story centers on a deadly biowarfare conspiracy: a fast-spreading virus unleashed targeting India, particularly during the Maha Kumbh Mela. A young child scientist, Janani (played by Harshaali Malhotra, known for Bajrangi Bhaijaan), develops a vital antidote, making her the prime target of sinister forces blending dark technology and ancient evils.
As chaos erupts, Akhanda emerges from Himalayan seclusion, wielding supernatural powers to protect Janani, dismantle the plot, and defend dharma. Themes of faith, patriotism, family sentiment, and good versus evil dominate, with escalated action in snowy terrains and mythic confrontations – including threats to Mount Kailash itself.
Key Cast:
- Nandamuri Balakrishna: The undisputed highlight, commanding in dual roles with goosebumps-inducing dialogues and elevation scenes.
- Samyuktha Menon: Female lead, adding glamour and a significant song sequence.
- Harshaali Malhotra: As Janani, the innocent child at the heart of the conflict.
- Supporting: Aadhi Pinisetty, Kabir Duhan Singh, Saswata Chatterjee, Shamna Kasim.
Crew:
- Director/Writer: Boyapati Sreenu (his fourth collaboration with Balakrishna).
- Producers: Ram Achanta and Gopi Achanta (14 Reels Plus), with IVY Entertainment.
- Music: S. Thaman – His thundering BGM and tracks like “The Thaandavam” and “Jajikaaya Jajikaaya” are massive hits.
- Budget: Estimated ₹120-200 crore, one of Balakrishna’s costliest.
The film overcame last-minute financial hurdles (postponed from December 5) and cleared by the Madras High Court for its December 12 release.
Box Office Storm on Day 1
Despite mixed reviews, Akhanda 2 roared at the box office. Early estimates peg Day 1 India net collections at ₹20-30 crore (including paid premieres on December 11), with strong occupancy in Telugu states (over 50-60% in many areas). Advances crossed ₹15-25 crore pre-release, driven by fan frenzy and North American pre-sales exceeding $250K. Worldwide gross projections for opening day hover around ₹35 crore. While lower than the first Akhanda‘s benchmarks in some metrics, Balakrishna’s star power ensures a solid start – theaters report celebrations, whistles, and packed houses.
Why You Should Watch It: The Mass Devotional Feast
For die-hard Nandamuri Balakrishna fans and lovers of unapologetic Telugu mass cinema, this is pure “paisa vasool”:
- Balakrishna’s Towering Presence: At 65, “Balayya Babu” delivers a career-highlight performance – commanding dialogues, emotional depth, and electrifying action that sparks theater euphoria.
- Explosive Action and BGM: Gravity-defying fights, interval block, and a rampage-filled climax elevated by Thaman’s thunderous score create goosebumps moments.
- Devotional and Patriotic Highs: Blending Hindu spirituality, family sentiment, and national pride, it resonates as a “must-watch for every Hindu” per some viewers.
- Theatrical Spectacle: Fans describe shows as festivals – ideal for big-screen immersion in Boyapati’s signature style.
If you’re craving over-the-top heroism and divine energy, this sequel amplifies the cult appeal of the original.
Why You Might Skip It: A Polarizing Endurance Test
Critics and general audiences have been harsher, with ratings averaging 2-3/5 and descriptions like “disappointing sequel” or “loud mess”:
- Weak Narrative: Predictable, illogical plot with underdeveloped characters and cringe-inducing scenes (e.g., stitched-back tongues, unintended humor).
- Over-the-Top Excess: Relentless loudness, repetitive elevations, and lack of fresh ideas make the 165 minutes feel exhausting.
- Outdated Formula: Boyapati’s style feels recycled, lacking emotional connect or coherence beyond mass moments.
- Not for Everyone: Subtlety-seekers or those preferring logic-driven stories may find it “C-grade nonsense” or meme-worthy.
As The Hindu noted, it’s “an endurance test” relying heavily on Balakrishna to salvage a chaotic script.
Final Verdict
Akhanda 2: Thaandavam is a film strictly for Balakrishna devotees and mass action enthusiasts – a roaring celebration of star power and devotion that turns theaters alive. For others, it’s a missed opportunity, proving sequels don’t always thunder like the original. As of Day 2 (December 13, 2025), fan support keeps it charging ahead, but word-of-mouth will decide its long run. If divine fury and mass madness call to you, grab a ticket. Otherwise, wait for streaming. Jai Balayya!
