The much-anticipated sequel, 'Akhanda 2: Thaandavam', starring Nandamuri Balakrishna, continues to demonstrate robust performance at the box office. The film, which hit theatres on December 12, has successfully completed a ten-day run, amassing impressive revenue figures that underscore its popularity among audiences.
Steady Box Office Collections
According to data from trade analyst Sacnilk, the film is enjoying a stable and successful theatrical journey. After its first week, the movie had already garnered an estimated ₹76.75 crore. The momentum carried into the second weekend, starting with a collection of over ₹1.7 crore on its second Friday.
The numbers saw a significant jump on Saturday, with the film adding ₹2.55 crore to its total. The second Sunday proved to be the most lucrative day of the weekend, as the film minted an impressive ₹3.40 crore. This strong weekend performance contributed a total of ₹7.65 crore over the three days, pushing the film's cumulative worldwide collection to approximately ₹84.40 crore.
Audience Occupancy and Reception
The film's appeal is further reflected in its theatre occupancy rates. On Sunday, the movie recorded an overall Telugu occupancy of 37.74%. The day began with a 22.80% occupancy during morning shows, which saw a substantial increase to 46.65% for afternoon screenings.
Interest peaked during the evening shows, reaching a high of 51.75%, before settling at 29.74% for the night shows. This pattern indicates sustained audience interest throughout the day.
Initial reactions on social media have been largely celebratory among the star's fanbase. Supporters have praised Balakrishna's dynamic energy in his dual role and highlighted the film's high-octane action sequences, thunderous climax, and Thaman's background score. Many have termed it a 'paisa vasool' (value for money) entertainer for mass movie lovers.
However, the critical reception has been mixed. While the action and Balakrishna's performance are lauded, some viewers and critics have pointed out a weak script and overly exaggerated moments as drawbacks.
About 'Akhanda 2: Thaandavam'
The film is a direct sequel to the 2021 blockbuster 'Akhanda'. Directed by Boyapati Sreenu, it features veteran actor Balakrishna in a dual role, portraying both a spiritual warrior and a powerful action hero. The narrative is packed with the director's signature style—massive action set pieces, themes of revenge, and spiritual conflicts.
The ensemble cast includes Samyuktha Menon, Aadhi Pinisetty, Harshaali Malhotra, Kabir Duhan Singh, and Saswata Chatterjee in pivotal roles. The film aims to deliver a larger-than-life cinematic experience, blending mythology-inspired elements with raw action, a formula that has historically resonated with a significant section of the Telugu audience.
As 'Akhanda 2' marches into its third week, its box office stability suggests it is well on its way to becoming another commercial success for Balakrishna and director Boyapati Sreenu, cementing their position as a potent combo in Telugu cinema's mass entertainment genre.
