“Akhanda Tandavam Has More High Moments Than Akhanda – Aadhi Pinisetty”
The much-awaited action extravaganza Akhanda 2, starring the God of Masses Nandamuri Balakrishna and directed by mass specialist Boyapati Sreenu, is gearing up for release on December 5. Produced by Ram Achanta and Gopi Achanta under the 14 Reels Plus banner and presented by M. Tejaswini Nandamuri, the film has already raised expectations with its teaser and trailer.
You are working with Boyapati Sreenu for the second time. What differences did you notice this time?
“I worked with Boyapati sir earlier in Sarrainodu as Vairam Dhanush. But the character I played in Akhanda 2 is completely different. I have never acted in a role that revolves around spirituality and mysticism. I’m also curious to see how the audience responds.”
When did Boyapati sir narrate the story of Akhanda 2?
“To be honest, Akhanda 2 is the first film I signed without listening to the story. That’s how much faith I have in Boyapati sir. I asked him whether I would suit the role opposite Balakrishna garu. He confidently said, ‘You’ll be perfect.’ Only after reaching the set did I understand the film’s world and my character.”
Tell us about your role in the film.
“After Boyapati sir explained the character, I was initially confused. A role like Vairam Dhanush can be internally imagined and performed. But this one is completely experimental for me. Every character in the film is unique. Let’s see how the audience receives it.”
Did Boyapati sir give you any references?
“Yes, he gave me several references beforehand. He was clear about how I should look, behave, and portray the role. After multiple look tests, we finally locked the version you will see in the film.”
How was the experience working with Balakrishna?
“We hear a lot about Balakrishna garu, but his energy on set is something else. His presence creates a positive vibe instantly. He also shared his working experiences with my father. Matching his energy is extremely difficult. I even asked Boyapati sir if I could stand strong as the antagonist. But he believed in me completely.”
Since you worked with Boyapati earlier, did you notice any changes in him now?
“No change at all. Even now, he comes to set on time, extremely disciplined. I haven’t seen work ethics like his in any other director. He handles massive shoots without showing any stress.”
What kind of high moments can we expect in Akhanda 2?
“Akhanda Tandavam has far more high moments than Akhanda. Balayya’s action, Boyapati sir’s making, Thaman’s music — when these three combine, it feels like a 10,000-watt electric shock. There are many wow and jaw-dropping moments. That’s the biggest plus point of Akhanda 2.”
What were the major challenges during shoot?
“There are huge action blocks in Akhanda Tandavam. Especially two major sequences. One of them was shot continuously for 15 days in peak summer. Many people suffered sunstroke by afternoon. But Balakrishna garu stood in that heat without even using an umbrella. That’s when I realized his madness and passion for cinema.”
Your thoughts on Thaman’s music and background score?
“Thaman always delivers powerful music. But when it comes to Balayya garu, he goes to another level altogether. Even for my scenes, the background score is extraordinary. I can’t wait to see that magic on screen.”
Tell us about your producers, Ram Achanta and Gopi Achanta.
“Shooting such a massive film across multiple locations with a huge budget is not easy. 14 Reels Plus handled everything with great care. Payments were always on time. I would love to work with producers like Ram Achanta and Gopi Achanta again.”
Personally, what quality do you admire most in Balakrishna?
“My father worked with Balakrishna garu. He always said Balayya is a straight-forward man—what he thinks is what he speaks. There is no duality. That honesty is rare.”
How do you think Akhanda 2 will perform?
“Akhanda Tandavam has come out extremely well. I believe the audience will definitely enjoy it. Now we’re all waiting for the verdict.”
Your upcoming projects?
“I’m working on a bilingual sports drama titled Thunder in Tamil and Telugu. I’m also doing the sequel to Marakatamamani and a film called Marshal with Karthi.”
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