Is Akhanda 2 Verdict the Key to Sankranti Film Releases?

As Sankranti is getting closer, the festive mood is slowly taking over Telugu households. Along with traditional celebrations, movie plans have also become a major topic of discussion. This year, deciding which film to watch is not going to be easy.

Sankranti is considered the biggest season for Telugu cinema. Audiences usually plan well in advance to watch movies during the festival holidays. Families, friends, and even overseas Telugu viewers make it a point to visit theatres during this time. That is why filmmakers also treat Sankranti as a golden box office season.

This time, the competition looks tougher than ever. Nearly seven films are preparing for release during Sankranti. Out of these, five are straight Telugu films, while two are dubbed versions. Releasing seven movies in a single festive window is not a small matter. It is bound to create pressure, especially when it comes to theatre availability and show timings.

When there are three or four films, audiences somehow manage their time and watch most of them. But with seven releases, it becomes difficult to give proper space to every film. Theatre screens, show schedules, and even audience attention get divided. Still, none of the films seem ready to postpone their release as of now.

Another major concern is related to Telangana. The big question is whether the government will allow premiere shows and ticket price hikes. Recently, Telangana Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy clearly stated that there would be no benefit shows or ticket rate hikes, and requested producers not to approach the government regarding this matter.

However, Sankranti producers later said they would submit a representation and take a decision based on the government’s response. They are hopeful that some relaxation may be given considering the festival season. Reports also suggest that producers are preparing backup plans in case legal hurdles arise later.

At the same time, the ticket rate hike issue related to Akhanda 2 is currently being heard in the Telangana High Court. The court is expected to give its verdict in the next ten days. Many Sankranti producers are waiting for this judgment before taking a final call.

With no clear clarity yet on ticket rates and permissions, producers remain confused. Until the court verdict arrives, the fate of Sankranti releases in Telangana continues to hang in uncertainty.