Directing Pawan Kalyan: Boon or Bane

Before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Janasena leader and Tollywood Power Star Pawan Kalyan made a comeback to films with 'Vakeel Saab.' He embarked on a journey of consecutive projects, simultaneously involved in the shooting of two or three films while actively participating in Andhra Pradesh politics. However, as Pawan Kalyan continued to primarily focus on remakes, it posed challenges for producers who invested crores and directors who had been patiently waiting for Pawan's call sheets. In this scenario, many are in dilema whether getting a chance of producing or directing Pawan Kalyan is boon or bane?

Getting in to the story, almost four years back, Pawan Kalyan signed a period adventure movie titled 'Hari Hara Veeramallu,' directed by Krish Jagarlamudi. Despite the initial announcement of the film as 'PSPK 27,' it has faced delays, leaving producers and directors in a state of uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted the schedule, leading director Krish to work on a smaller project, 'Konda Polam,' with Mega's nephew Vaishnav Tej, before returning to 'Hari Hara Veeramallu.' On the other hand, Hari Hara Veera Mallu film's release has been postponed multiple times, raising questions about its eventual completion.

Speculations have arisen about director Krish shifting to another project, possibly a female-oriented film with top heroine Anushka in the lead role under the UV Creations banner. While no official denial has been issued, the uncertainty surrounding Pawan Kalyan's film persists, fueled by the director's prolonged involvement in 'Hari Hara Veeramallu.'

Another project in lime light is the much-anticipated collaboration between Pawan Kalyan and director Harish Shankar, known for their previous blockbuster 'Gabbar Singh.' The remake project, initially titled 'Bhavadiyudu Bhagat Singh' and later changed to 'Ustad Bhagat Singh,' has faced delays, leaving fans eager but without a clear release date. Director Harish Shankar, waiting for Pawan Kalyan since 'Gaddalakonda Ganesh' in 2019, has begun 'Mr Bachchan' with Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja due to uncertainties surrounding the former project.

Director Surender Reddy's collaboration with Power Star in 'Yatha Kaalam.. Tatha Vyavaharam,’ announced in 2021, has not materialized despite the official confirmation. The project remains stagnant, with only a poster released on Pawan's birthday. In the interim, Sujeeth stands out as the fortunate director, having successfully started and officially announced a project OG, with the film set to be released on September 27, 2024.

While Sujeeth's project progresses smoothly, the fate of other directors hinges on decisions made by Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan after the elections. Pawan Kalyan's commitment to various projects, coupled with uncertainties, leaves filmmakers and fans eagerly awaiting clarity on release dates and completion of these eagerly anticipated films.

Meanwhile, while directors perceive Pawan Kalyan's acceptance of films as a boon, his tendency to halt shootings midway and take an extended amount of time is viewed by producers and directors as a drawback to Pawan's film commitments.

-By Vishnu Priya