Pawan Kalyan’s film faces controversy before release

Pawan Kalyan’s upcoming historical action film, Hari Hara Veera Mallu, is facing strong backlash just weeks before its release. Several community groups from Telangana, including Backward Classes (BC) and Mudhiraj associations, have raised concerns that the movie disrespects a revered folk hero.

These groups claim the film’s lead character, Veera Mallu, played by Pawan Kalyan, resembles Panduga Sayanna—a celebrated hero known for fighting against oppression and supporting poor and marginalized people. However, the film reportedly does not mention Sayanna or acknowledge any connection to him.

Community leaders argue that this omission erases an important part of their cultural history. They have demanded clarity from the filmmakers, asking them to confirm whether Veera Mallu is based on Panduga Sayanna. The leaders have also requested changes to the story if needed.

There are reports that some groups are threatening protests or even blocking the movie’s release if their concerns are not addressed. So far, the film’s production team has not responded officially to the controversy.

Hari Hara Veera Mallu is directed by AM Jyothi Krishna and features actors like Nidhhi Agerwal, Bobby Deol, Satyaraj, Nassar, and Vennela Kishore. The music is composed by Oscar-winner M.M. Keeravani. The film is set to release in multiple languages on July 24, 2025. Fans are eagerly waiting but now watchful of how the controversy will unfold.