Samantha Ruth Prabhu, the popular actress, recently took to social media to praise her ex-brother-in-law Akhil Akkineni for his latest film 'Lenin'. The unexpected gesture from the former family member delighted fans and sparked a wholesome exchange online.
Samantha's Heartfelt Message
On July 10, 2026, Samantha shared a post on Instagram congratulating Akhil Akkineni on the success of 'Lenin'. She wrote, 'Your hard work paid off and how! So happy seeing all the positive response and word of mouth! Especially about your standout performance @AkhilAkkineni8. Congrats naana @iamnagarjuna, @vamsi84 #BhagyashriBorse @MusicThaman and the entire team of #LENIN #BlockbusterLenin.' The post quickly garnered attention from fans and media alike.
Akhil Akkineni's Sweet Reply
Akhil Akkineni responded to Samantha's message with a warm and gracious reply, expressing his gratitude. While the exact text of his reply was not detailed, sources close to the actors confirmed that the exchange was friendly and positive. This interaction marks a rare public show of support between the two, who were once connected through Samantha's marriage to Akhil's brother, Naga Chaitanya.
Fans React to the Wholesome Exchange
Fans of both actors were thrilled to see the cordial interaction. Social media platforms buzzed with comments praising Samantha for her generosity and Akhil for his gracious response. Many noted that the exchange highlighted the maturity and respect between the former in-laws. The hashtag #SamanthaAkhil trended briefly on Twitter, with users sharing screenshots of the posts and expressing their admiration.
'Lenin' Box Office Success
'Lenin', starring Akhil Akkineni and Bhagyashri Borse, has been performing well at the box office since its release. According to industry reports, the film has grossed over ₹50 crore in its first week, making it one of Akhil's most successful releases. Directed by Vamsi, the film has received positive reviews for its storytelling and performances, particularly Akhil's portrayal of the lead role. The film's music by Thaman has also been praised.
Background of Samantha and Akhil's Relationship
Samantha Ruth Prabhu was married to Naga Chaitanya, the elder son of actor Nagarjuna, from 2017 to 2021. After their divorce, Samantha has maintained a cordial relationship with the Akkineni family. This public support for Akhil's film is seen as a testament to the enduring bonds beyond marital ties. Nagarjuna, the father of Naga Chaitanya and Akhil, also acknowledged Samantha's post, further solidifying the family's mutual respect.
Industry Reactions
The Telugu film industry has taken note of the exchange. Several actors and directors commented on the posts, applauding the display of goodwill. The positive reception underscores the close-knit nature of the industry, where personal relationships often transcend professional boundaries. This incident has been widely covered in entertainment news, with many calling it a refreshing example of amicable ex-family dynamics.
