Samantha Ruth Prabhu took to social media on July 10, 2026, to wish her former brother-in-law, actor Akhil Akkineni, on his birthday. The actress posted a warm message on Instagram, which was met with a gracious reply from Akhil.
Samantha's Birthday Post for Akhil
In her Instagram story, Samantha shared a picture of Akhil and wrote, "Happy birthday, Lenin! Wishing you a year filled with love, laughter, and success. Stay blessed always." The use of the nickname "Lenin" delighted fans, as it is a term of endearment used within the Akkineni family.
Akhil's Heartfelt Response
Akhil Akkineni responded to Samantha's wish by reposting her story and adding his own message. He wrote, "Thank you, Sam! Means a lot coming from you. Love and respect always." The exchange was widely appreciated by fans, who noted the cordial relationship between the two despite Samantha's divorce from Akhil's brother, Naga Chaitanya, in 2021.
Background of Their Bond
Samantha and Akhil have shared a close bond since her marriage to Naga Chaitanya. Even after the divorce, they have maintained a friendly rapport. Akhil's birthday celebration also saw wishes from other family members and friends, but Samantha's post stood out for its affectionate tone.
The actress has often spoken about her respect for the Akkineni family. In a previous interview, she said, "They are wonderful people, and I cherish the time I spent with them. Akhil is like a younger brother to me, and I will always care for him."
Fans flooded the comments section with praise for both Samantha and Akhil, highlighting how they have handled their personal relationships with maturity. Many called it a "classy move" and an example of maintaining healthy ties post-separation.
This public exchange comes amid Samantha's busy schedule, as she is currently promoting her upcoming film, which is set to release later this year. Akhil, on the other hand, is working on a new project in Telugu cinema.
