Akhanda 2: Thaandavam Fails to Match the Hype? Netizens React to Nandamuri Balakrishna’s Latest Telugu Release
Akhanda 2: Thaandavam, starring Nandamuri Balakrishna and directed by Boyapati Srinu, released after a delay but received mixed reactions from audiences. Netizens say the sequel fails to match the original’s magic, while some praise its mythological mass moments. Read social media reviews and reasons behind the film’s postponed release.
Nandamuri Balakrishna in a still from Akhanda 2: Thaandavam, which opened to mixed audience reactions after its delayed release.
Nandamuri Balakrishna's highly awaited sequel Akhanda 2: Thaandavam eventually made its way to the cinemas on Friday after a rescheduled release. The film, directed by Boyapati Srinu, was shown in full capacity during the early-morning slots and now the social media is filled with mixed responses from the viewers.
Akhanda 2 Releases After Delay
A sequel to the 2021 blockbuster Akhanda, the film features Amyuktha, Aadhi Pinishetty, and Harshaali Malhotra (popularly known as Munni from Bajrangi Bhaijaan) in key roles.
Originally slated to release on December 5, the film was postponed to December 12 by the makers, 14 Reels Plus.
Netizens Call Akhanda 2 “Disappointing”
Many viewers took to social media to compare the sequel with its predecessor, with several expressing disappointment.
One user wrote that Akhanda 1’s “mass magic” was missing in Part 2, adding that the intensity and emotional depth failed to match the original. However, the user praised Balakrishna’s powerful screen presence as the “biggest strength of the franchise.”
Another viewer shared that while the film worked in parts, Balakrishna as Nolan stole the show, calling the overall experience “decent” with a rating of 2.5/5.
Some reactions were more critical, calling the film “logicless” with “unbearable second-half portions.” A user wrote that Aadhi Pinishetty’s shouting overshadowed Thaman’s BGM, and labelled it the “weakest film in the Boyapati–Balayya combo.”
A Few Fans Praise the Mythological Elements
Amid the criticism, a section of fans appreciated the mythological mass sequences, intense interval block, and emotional second half. One user even claimed that Balakrishna’s “hit streak continues” and called the film a “blockbuster.”
Another viewer described it as an “average movie” but “one-time watch” with a strong interval and better second half.
Why Was Akhanda 2 Postponed?
The makers initially planned a December 5 release, which would have clashed with the Hindi film Dhurandhar. The new release date—December 12—was announced later to ensure a smoother run at the box office.
