I Play a Very Important Character in ‘Akhanda 2’ — Actress Samyuktha
The much-awaited divine action extravaganza “Akhanda 2: Tandavam”, featuring God of Masses Nandamuri Balakrishna and blockbuster filmmaker Boyapati Sreenu, is gearing up for a grand worldwide release on December 5, 2025, in both 2D and 3D formats. The film is prestigiously produced by Ram Achanta and Gopi Achanta, proudly presented by M. Tejaswini Nandamuri, with music by S. Thaman. With the teaser, trailer, and songs receiving a massive response, expectations are sky-high.
You are one of the busiest actresses in Telugu cinema right now. How does that feel?
It feels wonderful. After Virupaksha, I received many offers, but I’ve been very selective. Films like Bimbisara, Virupaksha, Sir, and Bheemla Nayak came to me around the same time, but their release schedules were different. Later, I signed Swayambhu, Nari Nari Naduma Murari, and then Akhanda 2. I also did a film with Puri sir.
I choose stories based on the content. I ask myself whether audiences will enjoy it. When they do, that is the biggest joy.
How did you come onboard Akhanda 2?
Boyapati sir narrated the story, and I immediately wanted to do it. Initially, my team told me my dates were packed, but I insisted that we adjust everything somehow. That’s how it happened. Boyapati sir’s vision is incredible — the film is beyond what we can imagine.
Tell us about your character in the film.
My role is very crucial to an important sequence in the film. It has a very stylish characterization. I also have a mass song in the film. Honestly, I was very nervous when I first heard it — I had never done a song of that scale before. I practiced for two days straight, and my knees gave up! I had to undergo physiotherapy, but my only goal was to make sure audiences enjoy the song on the big screen.
My character as a whole will appear extremely stylish.
How was the experience working with Balakrishna garu?
Balakrishna garu is extremely friendly. I first met him during an ad shoot, and he immediately spoke to me like he had known me for years. He’s a director’s actor — whatever the director says, he follows with complete dedication. That quality really impressed me.
He is also deeply passionate about Basavatarakam Cancer Hospital. When we first met, he even invited me to attend an awareness program related to cancer.
A video from the Vizag event went viral as memes. Did you notice it?
Yes, I did! I saved every meme. When I showed them to Balakrishna garu, he laughed wholeheartedly. You can’t force memes — they just happen organically.
How is Thaman’s music shaping up?
The songs released so far have received fantastic response. Many tracks in the film feel like a tribute to Lord Shiva. Thaman took great care with the background score. The Sanskrit lyrics elevate the spiritual experience and take you into a trance-like zone.
Which is your favourite Balakrishna film?
I really loved Daku Maharaj. It’s my favourite. The film performed exceptionally well in Kerala too. And of course, I watched Akhanda as well.
It looks like you’re doing many mythological or spiritually rooted films. Is that intentional?
Not at all. These offers are coming to me naturally — it’s not something I planned.
We heard you are very spiritual.
Yes, I am. But that’s a very deep subject — it deserves a separate interview! (laughs)
Your thoughts on the producers?
Ram garu and Gopi garu are excellent producers. Their support is the reason a film of this scale is possible. Their promotional work has also been phenomenal. Promotions are happening nationwide with great impact.
How do you see the Telugu film industry?
Telugu audiences are on another level. The way they celebrate cinema — especially on the first day — is unbelievable. Watching them celebrate makes us feel like we’ve succeeded already.
Tell us about your upcoming projects.
In Swayambhu, I’m playing a strong action-oriented character. In Nari Nari Naduma Murari, I have a lovely role alongside Sharwanand. Working with Puri sir was an amazing experience as well.