{{Short description|2021 Indian film by Boyapati Srinu}} {{Use dmy dates|date=February 2021}} {{Use Indian English|date=February 2021}} {{Infobox film | name = Akhanda | image = Akhanda Poster.jpg | caption = Theatrical release poster | director = Boyapati Srinu | producer = Miryala Ravinder Reddy | writer = '''Story''' & '''Screenplay''':<br/>Boyapati Srinu<br/>'''Dialogues''':<br/>M. Rathnam | starring = {{Ubl|Nandamuri Balakrishna|Pragya Jaiswal|Jagapathi Babu|Srikanth}} | music = Thaman S | cinematography = C. Ramprasad | editing = Kotagiri Venkateshwara Rao<br />Tammiraju | studio = Dwaraka Creations | released = {{Film date|df=y|2021|12|2}} | runtime = 169 minutes<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbfc.co.uk/release/akhanda-q29sbgvjdglvbjpwwc0xmdawotc1|title=Akhanda|website=British Board of Film Classification|access-date=1 December 2021|archive-date=30 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211130094057/https://www.bbfc.co.uk/release/akhanda-q29sbgvjdglvbjpwwc0xmdawotc1|url-status=live}}</ref> | country = India | language = Telugu | budget = {{INR|60–70}} crore{{efn|While ''The Hans India'' estimates the budget as 60 crore,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Vyas|date=2020-11-10|title=High budget for Balayya and Boyapati's movie?|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/high-budget-for-balayya-and-boyapatis-movie-655616|website=The Hans India}}</ref> ''The News Minute'' and ''Sakshi Post'' report it as 70 crore.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-12-25|title=Balakrishna's next with Boyapati Srinu put on hold?|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/balakrishnas-next-boyapati-srinu-put-hold-114739|website=The News Minute|access-date=4 December 2021|archive-date=6 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210806052710/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/balakrishnas-next-boyapati-srinu-put-hold-114739|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-12-05|title=Akhanda Day 3 Collections: Nandamuri Balakrishna Unstoppable at Box Office|url=https://english.sakshi.com/news/tollywood/akhanda-day-3-collections-nandamuri-balakrishna-unstoppable-box-office-147642|website=Sakshi Post|access-date=5 December 2021|archive-date=5 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205053851/https://english.sakshi.com/news/tollywood/akhanda-day-3-collections-nandamuri-balakrishna-unstoppable-box-office-147642|url-status=live}}</ref>}} | gross = {{estimation}}{{INR|150}} crore<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 January 2022 |title=Akhanda : అఖండ మరో రికార్డ్.. 110 కోట్ల క్లబ్లో బాలయ్య.. |url=https://telugu.news18.com/photogallery/movies/balakrishna-akhanda-creates-new-record-joins-250-cr-club-here-are-the-details-sr-1166666-page-7.html |access-date=12 May 2022 |website=News18 |language=te|archive-date=15 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230415015758/https://telugu.news18.com/photogallery/movies/balakrishna-akhanda-creates-new-record-joins-250-cr-club-here-are-the-details-sr-1166666-page-7.html |url-status=live }}</ref> }}
'''''Akhanda''''' ({{translation|Undivided}}) is a 2021 Indian Telugu-language fantasy action drama film co-written and directed by Boyapati Srinu. It was produced by Miryala Ravinder Reddy, under Dwaraka Creations. It stars Nandamuri Balakrishna in a dual role alongside Pragya Jaiswal, Jagapathi Babu and Srikanth. The film featured original score and soundtrack was composed by Thaman S. In the film, twin brothers Akhanda and Murali Krishna are separated at birth. They grow up to lead completely separate lives, Murali as a local hero, and Akhanda as a secluded Shiva devotee. But when the lives of Murali and his family are in danger, his long-lost brother finally returns. Released on 2 December 2021, ''Akhanda'' opened to mixed reviews from the critics and positive response from audience.<ref>{{Cite news|title='Akhanda' Box Office collection: Nandamuri Balakrishna's film collects Rs.20.8 cr on the release day! - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/box-office/akhanda-box-office-collection-nandamuri-balakrishnas-film-collects-rs-20-8-cr-on-the-release-day/articleshow/88068938.cms|access-date=2021-12-05|website=The Times of India| language=en}}</ref> The film became a success, grossing over {{INR|150}} crore worldwide, emerging as the third highest-grossing Telugu film of the year and the highest-grossing film in Balakrishna's career then.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Akhanda : అఖండ మరో రికార్డ్.. 250 కోట్ల క్లబ్లో బాలయ్య..|url=https://telugu.news18.com/photogallery/movies/balakrishna-akhanda-creates-new-record-joins-250-cr-club-here-are-the-details-sr-1166666.html|access-date=2022-01-18|website=News18 Telugu|date=17 January 2022|language=te|archive-date=18 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220118134906/https://telugu.news18.com/photogallery/movies/balakrishna-akhanda-creates-new-record-joins-250-cr-club-here-are-the-details-sr-1166666.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Akhanda'' was featured at the 53rd International Film Festival of India in the Indian Panorama mainstream section.<ref name="fest">{{Cite news|url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1870193|title=53RD IFFI 2022 official|access-date=22 October 2022|archive-date=22 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221022072007/https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1870193|url-status=live}}</ref>
''Akhanda'' won the Telangana state Gaddar Award for Second Best Feature Film. A sequel, titled ''Akhanda 2'', was released on 12th December 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nandamuri Balakrishna's powerful teaser of Akhanda 2: Thandavam is out now {{!}} Filmfare.com |url=https://www.filmfare.com/news/south/nandamuri-balakrishnas-powerful-teaser-of-akhanda-2-thandavam-is-out-now-74577.html |access-date=2025-06-10 |website=www.filmfare.com |language=en}}</ref>
== Plot == In a dense, impenetrable forest, the Indian Army hunts a feared brigand named Gajendra Sahu. During a violent encounter, Gajendra is gravely injured but is rescued by the head of a spiritual organization called Maha Rudra Peetam. The chieftain preaches that God exists in nature and that it must be protected at all times. However, people blindly worship the chieftain more than the truth he represents. Angered by this hypocrisy, Gajendra kills the chieftain and his followers and begins exploiting nature for personal gain. Before dying, the chieftain warns him never to challenge fate, the Creator, and the universe.
At the same time in Anantapur, a couple, Ramachandraiah and Dharani, are blessed with twin sons, one of whom is stillborn. An Aghora appears and reveals that one child represents nature, while the other is a destructive force born of Shiva’s wrath. He takes the stillborn child to Kashi, where the child miraculously comes back to life in a temple and is raised by Aghoras.
Years later, Murali Krishna, the surviving twin, becomes a powerful and respected arbitrator who works to eliminate factionalism and bring prosperity to the region. Saranya Bachupally, a newly appointed District Collector, clashes with Murali at first but soon falls in love with him after understanding his ideals. Meanwhile, Varadarajulu, a ruthless gangster, runs illegal uranium mining operations in a protected forest, exploiting workers under inhumane conditions. Gajendra Sahu supports Varadarajulu’s operations. Saranya orders Principal Secretary Padmavati to conduct a secret investigation into these illegal activities.
Murali and Saranya marry and have a baby girl. Soon, children in the region start falling mysteriously ill, and doctors fail to find the cause. Padmavati uncovers the truth about Varadarajulu’s uranium mining and warns Murali that the entire region will become a graveyard if it is not stopped. Murali confronts Varadarajulu, but his associate, Central Minister Bharat Reddy, intervenes. Gajendra plants a bomb at the hospital, killing several people, including Bharat Reddy. Murali is falsely implicated and arrested by NIA officer Krishnamacharya Perumal.
When Murali’s own daughter falls sick, Saranya rushes her to a hospital. On the way, Varadarajulu’s men attack her. While escaping, she enters an ancient cave temple where she encounters Akhanda Rudra Sikandar Aghora, Murali’s elder brother, who possesses supernatural powers and is on a mission to restore sacred temples. Akhanda saves Saranya, revives the baby, and protects them. Gajendra, realizing Akhanda’s divine power, begins to fear him.
Varadarajulu’s brother, DSP Ranjan, captures Saranya and Murali’s family, but Akhanda intervenes, kills the corrupt officers, and warns Gajendra by throwing Ranjan’s dead body at him. Dharani, the twins’ mother, learns the truth about her sons and tries to reunite with Akhanda, but he declares that he has dedicated his life to God. Though detached, Akhanda develops a deep affection for Murali’s child.
Akhanda later discovers that Padmavati has been brutally tortured and raped by Varadarajulu for exposing the mining scam. Enraged, Akhanda attacks the mining site, defeats Varadarajulu’s forces, and frees the enslaved workers. Krishnamacharya also learns of Murali’s innocence and clears his name. Desperate, Gajendra seeks help from a tantric named Prachanda to kill Akhanda.
They cast a deadly curse on Murali’s child. To counter it, Akhanda begins a sacred Maha Mrityunjaya Homam, as advised by Kedari Aghori Baba. While performing the ritual, Akhanda is attacked by Gajendra and Prachanda, but he endures the pain and completes it with Murali’s help. Empowered by Lord Shiva, Akhanda destroys both Gajendra and Prachanda. After restoring balance, he leaves, promising Murali’s child that he will return whenever they need him again.
== Cast == {{cast listing| * Nandamuri Balakrishna in a dual role as **Akhanda Rudra Sikandar Aghora **Bala Murali Krishna * Pragya Jaiswal as Saranya Bachupally IAS, Murali's wife * Jagapathi Babu as Aghora Baba * Srikanth as Anthapuram Varadarajulu, the owner of the copper mining * Nithin Mehta as Gajendra Sahu * Poorna as Padmavathi IAS, Principal Secretary * Avinash as Ramachandriah; Akhanda and Murali's father * Viji Chandrasekhar as Dharani, Akhanda and Murali's mother * Sharath Lohitashwa as Krishnamacharya Perumal, an NIA officer * Suresh Chandra Menon as Jagajith Chauhan, a businessman * Subbaraju as Central Minister A. Bharath Reddy * Prabhakar as DSP Ranjan, Varadarajulu's younger brother * Sravan as Varadarajulu's youngest brother * Ayyappa P. Sharma as Prachanda, an evil Tantrik * Naga Mahesh as Rajappa * Chammak Chandra as Murali's fan * Baby Deshna Javaji<ref>{{Cite web|title=Akhanda child artist: 'అఖండ' సినిమాలో బాలయ్య కూతురుగా నటించిన ఈ చిన్నారి బ్యాగ్రౌండ్ తెలుసా..?|url=https://telugu.news18.com/photogallery/movies/here-the-interesting-details-and-facts-about-akhanda-child-artist-who-acted-as-balakrishna-daughter-pk-1116874-page-6.html|access-date=2021-12-10|website=News18 Telugu|date=9 December 2021|language=te|archive-date=10 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211210125814/https://telugu.news18.com/photogallery/movies/here-the-interesting-details-and-facts-about-akhanda-child-artist-who-acted-as-balakrishna-daughter-pk-1116874-page-6.html|url-status=live}}</ref> as Janani, Saranya and Murali's daughter }}
== Production ==
=== Development === The film marks the third collaboration between Balakrishna and Boyapati Srinu after ''Simha'' (2010) and Legend (2014).<ref>{{Cite news|date=2020-06-12|title=Actor Balakrishna upbeat about his third film with director Boyapati Srinu|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/actor-balakrishna-upbeat-about-his-third-film-with-director-boyapati-srinu/article31811665.ece|access-date=2021-12-04|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204063214/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/actor-balakrishna-upbeat-about-his-third-film-with-director-boyapati-srinu/article31811665.ece|url-status=live}}</ref> It was formally launched at a private event held at Hyderabad in December 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-12-25|title=Balakrishna's next with Boyapati Srinu put on hold?|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/balakrishnas-next-boyapati-srinu-put-hold-114739|access-date=2021-12-04|website=The News Minute|language=en|archive-date=6 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210806052710/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/balakrishnas-next-boyapati-srinu-put-hold-114739|url-status=live}}</ref> The film was tentatively titled as ''BB3'' and ''NBK106''. In April 2021, the film's official title was unveiled as ''Akhanda''.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Balakrishna-Boyapati Srinu film titled Akhanda|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/stories/news/2021/apr/13/balakrishna-boyapati-srinu-film-titled-akhanda-23917.html|access-date=2021-04-13|website=Cinema Express|date=13 April 2021|language=en|archive-date=25 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211025033115/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/stories/news/2021/apr/13/balakrishna-boyapati-srinu-film-titled-akhanda-23917.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=అఖండ హిందీ కలెక్షన్లపై ఓ లుక్కేయండి |url=https://telugu.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/balakrishna-akhanda-hindi-day-1-expected-collections-in-world-wide-121674265736808.html |access-date=21 January 2023 |publisher=Hindustan Times Telugu |archive-date=21 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230121021311/https://telugu.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/balakrishna-akhanda-hindi-day-1-expected-collections-in-world-wide-121674265736808.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>
=== Cast and crew === Sayyeshaa was cast for the film for an undisclosed role in November 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-11-12|title=Sayyeshaa to team up with Nandamuri Balakrishna in Boyapati's next Telugu film|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/sayyeshaa-to-team-up-with-nandamuri-balakrishna-in-boyapati-s-next-telugu-film/story-HHBy1gWcCidiblGA2RvANI.html|access-date=2021-12-04|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204063212/https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/sayyeshaa-to-team-up-with-nandamuri-balakrishna-in-boyapati-s-next-telugu-film/story-HHBy1gWcCidiblGA2RvANI.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Later, she left the project due to an unknown reason. It was also reported that Anjali will be part of the film.{{citation needed|date=November 2024}} In March 2021, it was also reported that the action director duo Ram-Laxman has left the film after working for few action scenes. They were later replaced by Stunt Silva.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-03-06|title=బాలయ్య సినిమా నుంచి ఆ ఇద్దరూ ఔట్!|url=https://www.sakshi.com/telugu-news/movies/fight-masters-quit-balakrishna-and-boyapati-movie-1348034|access-date=2021-12-04|website=Sakshi|language=te|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204064715/https://www.sakshi.com/telugu-news/movies/fight-masters-quit-balakrishna-and-boyapati-movie-1348034|url-status=live}}</ref> Speaking to the media, in December 2021, Siva told that "I allocated 80 days for 'Akhanda'. Of them, up to 65 days went into mounting action sequences. The rest of the days went into discussing with the director how to elevate the scenes. Ever since the director narrated the story, I started thinking about how to make the fights novel".<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-12-05|title=బాలయ్య ఓ పవర్హౌస్!|url=https://www.ntnews.com/news/akhanda-fight-master-stun-siva-interview-340315|access-date=2021-12-06|website=Namasthe Telangana|language=en-US|archive-date=6 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211206163858/https://www.ntnews.com/news/akhanda-fight-master-stun-siva-interview-340315|url-status=live}}</ref> Initially Prayaga Martin was cast for the lead actress role. Few scenes were also shot featuring her, but was later replaced by Pragya Jaiswal.{{citation needed|date=November 2024}} Pragya was cast in November 2020 after which she joined the production in December 2020. She was part of a 33-day first schedule shot at Hyderabad, Tamil Nadu and Goa.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Dundoo|first=Sangeetha Devi|date=2021-11-22|title=Pragya Jaiswal: I took up 'Akhanda' with the trust I have in director Boyapati Srinu|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/pragya-jaiswal-i-took-up-akhanda-with-the-trust-i-have-in-director-boyapati-srinu/article37624464.ece|access-date=2021-12-04|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204064358/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/pragya-jaiswal-i-took-up-akhanda-with-the-trust-i-have-in-director-boyapati-srinu/article37624464.ece|url-status=live}}</ref> In an interview with ''The Times of India'', she said that "I had to join the film sets as soon as I was roped in, so my prep time was very little. It took me a while to transform myself into the character, and that happened on the sets of 'Akhanda'. I had taken a few references from the real-life lady cops and noted every detail related to their dressing, mannerisms, and small-big details".<ref>{{Cite news|title=Akhanda: Pragya Jaiswal shares her experience working with Nandamuri Balakrishna|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/akhanda-pragya-jaiswal-shares-her-experience-working-with-nandamuri-balakrishna/articleshow/87848234.cms|access-date=2021-12-04|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204065603/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/akhanda-pragya-jaiswal-shares-her-experience-working-with-nandamuri-balakrishna/articleshow/87848234.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> Stylist and costume designer Raamz has been roped for designing costumes in the film. Speaking to Neeshita Nyayapati about designing costumes for Balakrishna's dual characters, he told that "Given Balakrishna's larger-than-life persona, I wanted to create looks that would remain memorable for years to come. Boyapati Srinu's (the film's director) Akhanda Movie is a Devotional Action Movie which will impress the audience.{{citation needed|date=November 2024}} We also designed his tattoos and the Shiva Lingam locket that he uses in fight scenes".<ref>{{Cite news|title=Meet Raamz, the man behind Balakrishna's intense avatar in Akhanda – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/meet-raamz-the-man-behind-balakrishnas-intense-avatar-in-akhanda/articleshow/88212301.cms|access-date=2021-12-11|website=The Times of India|language=en|last1=Nyayapati|first1=Neeshita|archive-date=11 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211211045137/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/meet-raamz-the-man-behind-balakrishnas-intense-avatar-in-akhanda/articleshow/88212301.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>
=== Filming === [[File:10. The Venkataramana Temple of Gingee was also called the 1000 pillar temple.JPG|thumb|Gingee Venkataramana Temple, where climax scenes were shot]] Principal photography of the film began in March 2020.<ref>{{Cite news|title=బాలయ్య కొత్త చిత్రం షూటింగ్ స్టార్ట్|url=https://m.sakshi.com/news/movies/nandamuri-balakrishna-and-boyapati-srinu-new-film-shooting-starts-1267663|date=2 March 2021|access-date=2 December 2021|work=Sakshi|language=Te|archive-date=2 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202173358/https://m.sakshi.com/news/movies/nandamuri-balakrishna-and-boyapati-srinu-new-film-shooting-starts-1267663|url-status=live}}</ref> After the filming was halted due to COVID-19 pandemic in India,<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-07-13|title=Balakrishna resumes shooting for 'Akhanda' in Hyderabad|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/balakrishna-resumes-shooting-akhanda-hyderabad-152224|access-date=2021-12-03|website=The News Minute|language=en|archive-date=3 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203152015/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/balakrishna-resumes-shooting-akhanda-hyderabad-152224|url-status=live}}</ref> final schedule of the film was resumed in July 2021 at Hyderabad.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-07-13|title=Balakrishna's 'Akhanda' resumes shoot|url=https://telanganatoday.com/balakrishnas-akhanda-resumes-shoot|access-date=2021-12-03|website=Telangana Today|language=en-US|archive-date=14 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714032544/https://telanganatoday.com/balakrishnas-akhanda-resumes-shoot|url-status=live}}</ref> Few scenes of the film were shot at Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management, Hyderabad Campus. Filming of climax scenes of the film began in end-July 2021 at Tamil Nadu. Most of the action scenes were features Balakrishna and Srikanth.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Climax shoot of Nandamuri Balakrishna and Pragya Jaiswal starrer Akhanda in progress|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/climax-shoot-of-nandamuri-balakrishna-and-pragya-jaiswal-starrer-akhanda-in-progress/articleshow/84674930.cms|access-date=2021-12-03|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> These action scenes were choreographed by Shiva. It was reported that the scenes were shot at Gingee Venkataramana Temple in Viluppuram district of Tamil Nadu.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-07-24|title=Balakrishna, Boyapati Srinu shoot Akhanda climax in Villupuram|url=https://www.dtnext.in/News/Cinema/2021/07/24002358/1308322/Balakrishna-Boyapati-Srinu-shoot-Akhanda-climax-in-.vpf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210725050207/https://www.dtnext.in/News/Cinema/2021/07/24002358/1308322/Balakrishna-Boyapati-Srinu-shoot-Akhanda-climax-in-.vpf|url-status=dead|archive-date=25 July 2021|access-date=2021-12-03|website=dtNext.in|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-07-24|title=Nandamuri Balakrishna shoots 'Akhanda' climax in Tamil Nadu|url=https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/regional-indian-cinema-news/article/nandamuri-balakrishna-shoots-akhanda-climax-in-tamil-nadu-23184353|access-date=2021-12-04|website=mid-day.com|language=en|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204063212/https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/regional-indian-cinema-news/article/nandamuri-balakrishna-shoots-akhanda-climax-in-tamil-nadu-23184353|url-status=live}}</ref> As part of the final schedule, the team next headed to Goa in September 2021 to shoot songs of the film.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Nandamuri Balakrishna to jet off to Goa for his next schedule of 'Akhanda' where he will shoot for songs|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/latest-update-on-nandamuri-balakrishnas-akhanda/articleshow/86113156.cms|access-date=2021-12-04|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204065604/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/latest-update-on-nandamuri-balakrishnas-akhanda/articleshow/86113156.cms|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Vyas|date=2021-09-13|title=Balakrishna heads to Goa|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/balakrishna-heads-to-goa-706218|access-date=2021-12-04|website=thehansindia.com|language=en|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204065607/https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/balakrishna-heads-to-goa-706218|url-status=live}}</ref> Filming was wrapped up in October 2021.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Nandamuri Balakrishna, Boyapati Srinu, Dwaraka Creations' Akhanda Shooting Wrapped Up|url=https://industryhit.com/t/nandamuri-balakrishna-boyapati-srinu-dwaraka-creations-akhanda-shooting-wrapped-up/|date=5 October 2021|access-date=2 December 2021|work=industryhit.com|archive-date=2 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202072129/https://industryhit.com/t/nandamuri-balakrishna-boyapati-srinu-dwaraka-creations-akhanda-shooting-wrapped-up/|url-status=live}}</ref>
== Music == {{Main|Akhanda (soundtrack)}} The film score and soundtrack album of the film is composed by Thaman S. The first single from the soundtrack, "Adigaa Adigaa" was released on 18 September 2021.<ref>{{Cite news|title='Akhanda' first single out: Nandamuri Balakrishna, Pragya Jaiswal's 'Adigaa Adigaa' is a magical melody – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/music/akhanda-first-single-out-nandamuri-balakrishna-pragya-jaiswals-adigaa-adigaa-is-a-magical-melody/articleshow/86335225.cms|access-date=2021-12-05|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=17 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220217024951/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/music/akhanda-first-single-out-nandamuri-balakrishna-pragya-jaiswals-adigaa-adigaa-is-a-magical-melody/articleshow/86335225.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> The second single "Akhanda Title Song" was released on 8 November 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-11-06|title=Title Song of Nandamuri Balakrishna's Akhanda to be Released on Nov 8|url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/title-song-of-nandamuri-balakrishnas-akhanda-to-be-released-on-nov-8-4412162.html|access-date=2021-12-05|website=News18|language=en|archive-date=5 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205064335/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/title-song-of-nandamuri-balakrishnas-akhanda-to-be-released-on-nov-8-4412162.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The last single of the album "Jai Balayya" was released on 27 November 2021, during the pre-release event of the film held at Hyderabad.{{citation needed|date=November 2024}} The music rights were acquired by Lahari Music.
== Release == === Theatrical === The film was initially planned to be released on 28 May 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|date=February 1, 2021|first=Shivam|last=Parashar|title=Balakrishna and Boyapati Sreenu's 3rd collaboration to release on May 28|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/balakrishna-and-boyapati-sreenu-s-3rd-collaboration-to-release-on-may-28-1764648-2021-02-01|access-date=2021-12-04|website=India Today|language=en|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204063214/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/balakrishna-and-boyapati-sreenu-s-3rd-collaboration-to-release-on-may-28-1764648-2021-02-01|url-status=live}}</ref> But due to the COVID-19 pandemic in India, the film was delayed to 2 December 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-10-17|title=Dil Raju to distribute Balakrishna's 'Akhanda' in Nizam: Report|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/dil-raju-to-distribute-balakrishnas-akhanda-in-nizam-report-1041381.html|access-date=2021-12-04|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|archive-date=17 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211017063657/https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/dil-raju-to-distribute-balakrishnas-akhanda-in-nizam-report-1041381.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The Tamil dubbed version of the film was released on 28 January 2022.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/akhanda-tamil-version-to-release-in-theaters-this-friday/articleshow/89134993.cms|title= 'Akhanda' Tamil version to release this Friday|website= The Times of India|archive-date= 12 February 2022|access-date= 12 February 2022|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220212194513/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/akhanda-tamil-version-to-release-in-theaters-this-friday/articleshow/89134993.cms|url-status= live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/akhanda-to-ala-vaikunthapuramulo-five-telugu-blockbusters-that-were-dubbed-in-tamil/photostory/89138122.cms|title= 'Akhanda' to 'Ala Vaikunthapuramulo': Five Telugu blockbusters that were dubbed in Tamil|website= The Times of India|date= 28 January 2022|access-date= 12 February 2022|archive-date= 12 February 2022|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220212201036/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/akhanda-to-ala-vaikunthapuramulo-five-telugu-blockbusters-that-were-dubbed-in-tamil/photostory/89138122.cms|url-status= live}}</ref> The film was also dubbed in Hindi under the same title and released on 20 January 2023.{{citation needed|date=February 2022}}
=== Home media === Digital distribution rights of the film were acquired by JioHotstar for ₹15 crore.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Vyas|date=2021-04-19|title=Hotstar acquires digital rights of 'Akhanda'|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/hotstar-acquires-digital-rights-of-akhanda-682544|access-date=2021-12-04|website=thehansindia.com|language=en|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204071137/https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/hotstar-acquires-digital-rights-of-akhanda-682544|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-12-03|title=Akhanda OTT Release Date Confirmed: Deets Inside|url=https://english.sakshi.com/news/entertainment/akhanda-ott-release-date-confirmed-deets-inside-147527|access-date=2021-12-03|website=Sakshi Post|language=en|archive-date=3 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203152849/https://english.sakshi.com/news/entertainment/akhanda-ott-release-date-confirmed-deets-inside-147527|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-12-04|title=Akhanda : నటసింహం అఖండ డిజిటల్ రైట్స్ దక్కించుకుంది ఎవరో తెలుసా..|url=https://tv9telugu.com/entertainment/tollywood/disney-hotstar-gets-nandamuri-balakrishnas-akhanda-digital-rights-590030.html|access-date=2021-12-04|website=TV9 Telugu|language=te|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204070930/https://tv9telugu.com/entertainment/tollywood/disney-hotstar-gets-nandamuri-balakrishnas-akhanda-digital-rights-590030.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Satellite rights of the film were purchased by Star Maa. The film was premiered on Hotstar on 21 January 2022 <ref>{{Cite tweet |user=DisneyPlusHS |number=1481559261524422660 |title=Ee sankranti season lo mee gadapa munduki vacchestunnadu. Hear "#Akhanda roar ! #AkhandaOnHotstar streaming from Jan 21st, 6pm. #AkhandaSankranthiSambaralu #NandamuriBalakrishna #Boyapatisreenu}}</ref> and became the most watched regional film on OTT platforms.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-22 |title=Akhanda Shatters Records on OTT |url=https://english.sakshi.com/news/entertainment/akhanda-shatters-records-ott-150177 |access-date=2022-05-02 |website=Sakshi Post |language=en |archive-date=21 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220521222403/https://english.sakshi.com/news/entertainment/akhanda-shatters-records-ott-150177 |url-status=live }}</ref> The movie had its television premiere on Star Maa on 10 April 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2022-01-13|title=New Trailer Released Ahead of 50 Days of Akhanda|url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/new-trailer-released-ahead-of-50-days-of-akhanda-4652438.html|access-date=2022-01-18|website=News18|language=en|archive-date=18 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220118141359/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/new-trailer-released-ahead-of-50-days-of-akhanda-4652438.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The satellite rights of the Hindi dub were sold to Zee Cinema.
== Reception == === Critical response === A reviewer from ''The Hans India'' rated 3 out of 5 stars, and called it Balakrishna's "one man show", adding "Living up to the expectations, Akhanda also showers a mass treat on the fans. The film is impressive in the way it was made." However, the reviewer was critical of predictable plot and screenplay.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Akhanda movie Review & Rating {3/5}|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/movie-reviews/akhanda-movie-review-rating-35-78571|date=2 December 2021|access-date=2 December 2021|work=The Hans India}}</ref>
Writing for ''The Times of India'', Neeshita Nyayapati wrote, "While the basic premise of ''Akhanda'' is interesting, especially the way Boyapati sets it up by weaving a historical story with mass moments in a way only he can, he soon loses the plot (literally) and gets carried away with giving Akhanda and Murali mass moments that are sure to elicit whistles but don't do anything for the story."<ref>{{Citation|title=Akhanda Movie Review: Strictly for Balakrishna's fans|newspaper=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movie-reviews/akhanda/movie-review/88047385.cms|access-date=2021-12-03|archive-date=3 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203044244/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movie-reviews/akhanda/movie-review/88047385.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> In her review for ''The Hindu'', Sangeetha Devi Dundoo also echoes the same. "The film gets tiresome post intermission and the incessantly high voltage background score doesn't help either," she added.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Dundoo|first=Sangeetha Devi|date=2021-12-02|title='Akhanda' movie review: An ultra high decibel roar|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/akhanda-movie-review-an-ultra-high-decibel-roar/article37803962.ece|access-date=2021-12-03|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=19 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231019103826/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/akhanda-movie-review-an-ultra-high-decibel-roar/article37803962.ece|url-status=live}}</ref>
''The Indian Express'' critic Manoj Kumar R said that the film was "an assault on the senses". Kumar was critical of Boyapati's usage of spirituality to provide a moral justification for the character to slaughter people with impunity while trying to appear as pro-progress and pro-rational.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-12-03|title=Akhanda review: Nandamuri Balakrishna film is an assault on the senses|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/akhanda-movie-review-nandamuri-balakrishna-film-is-an-assault-on-the-senses-7652464/|website=The Indian Express|access-date=3 December 2021|archive-date=19 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220819080815/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/akhanda-movie-review-nandamuri-balakrishna-film-is-an-assault-on-the-senses-7652464/|url-status=live}}</ref> In another negative review, Ram Venkat Srikar of ''Cinema Express'', wrote: "''Akhanda'' is a quintessential Boyapati Sreenu outing where logic dies a brutal death even before the title appears and the audience die a slow death for the next 167 minutes."<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-12-03|title=Akhanda Movie Review: Balakrishna punches the goons, this film punches the audience|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/review/2021/dec/02/akhanda-movie-review-28177.html|access-date=|website=Cinema Express}}</ref>
=== Box office === ''Akhanda'' collected ₹20.8 crore in the Telugu states on its opening day.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Vyas|date=2021-12-03|title=Day One: Akhanda Collections|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/day-one-akhanda-collections-718024|access-date=2021-12-05|website=thehansindia.com|language=en|archive-date=5 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205061101/https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/day-one-akhanda-collections-718024|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-12-03|title=Akhanda box office day 1: Nandamuri Balakrishna film earns Rs 23 cr, exceeds expectations|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/akhanda-box-office-day-1-nandamuri-balakrishna-film-earns-rs-23-cr-7653704/|access-date=2021-12-05|website=The Indian Express|language=en|archive-date=3 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203150614/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/akhanda-box-office-day-1-nandamuri-balakrishna-film-earns-rs-23-cr-7653704/|url-status=live}}</ref> Whereas, it has collected a total of ₹29.60 crore worldwide on its opening day.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Akhanda 1st day WW collections: 'అఖండ' ఫస్ట్ డే ఏరియా వైజ్ కలెక్షన్స్.. బాక్సాఫీస్ను ఊచకోత కోసిన బాలకృష్ణ..|url=https://telugu.news18.com/news/movies/boyapati-sreenu-akhanda-movie-1st-day-worldwide-collections-and-nandamuri-balakrishna-rules-the-box-office-and-shutters-the-records-pk-1109498.html|access-date=2021-12-05|website=News18 Telugu|date=3 December 2021|language=te|archive-date=3 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203064256/https://telugu.news18.com/news/movies/boyapati-sreenu-akhanda-movie-1st-day-worldwide-collections-and-nandamuri-balakrishna-rules-the-box-office-and-shutters-the-records-pk-1109498.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The film collected ₹44 crore, by the second day of its release.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-12-04|title=Vaartha Online Edition ముఖ్యాంశాలు|url=https://www.vaartha.com/akhanda-2-days-collections/|access-date=2021-12-05|website=Vaartha|language=en-US|archive-date=4 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211204173459/https://www.vaartha.com/akhanda-2-days-collections/|url-status=live}}</ref> At the United States box office, it collected of more than $500,000 within two days of its release.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Balakrishna's 'Akhanda' grosses $500,000 in the US – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/box-office/balakrishnas-akhanda-grosses-500000-in-the-us/articleshow/88091158.cms|access-date=2021-12-05|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=5 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205061101/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/box-office/balakrishnas-akhanda-grosses-500000-in-the-us/articleshow/88091158.cms|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Balakrishna's 'Akhanda' grosses $500,000 in the US|url=https://www.sify.com/movies/balakrishnas-akhanda-grosses-500000-in-the-us-news-bollywood-vmekPsafieggd.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205061100/https://www.sify.com/movies/balakrishnas-akhanda-grosses-500000-in-the-us-news-bollywood-vmekPsafieggd.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 December 2021|access-date=2021-12-05|website=Sify|language=en}}</ref> By the third day of the film's release, it had collected ₹56.90 crore worldwide. After four days, the film collected ₹66.7 crores.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-12-06|title=Balakrishna's Akhanda Takes Box Office by Storm, Rakes in Over Rs 44 Cr in 4 Days|url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/balakrishnas-akhanda-takes-box-office-by-storm-rakes-in-over-rs-44-cr-in-4-days-4524455.html|access-date=2021-12-06|website=News18|language=en|archive-date=6 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211206170002/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/balakrishnas-akhanda-takes-box-office-by-storm-rakes-in-over-rs-44-cr-in-4-days-4524455.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
By the end of first week, the film grossed ₹79.9 crore worldwide.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-12-09|title=అఖండ మూవీతో 100 కోట్ల మార్క్ను అందుకోబోతున్న బాలయ్య {{!}} Prajasakti|url=https://www.prajasakti.com/akhamda-mauvaiitaoo-100-kaootala-maaarakanau-amdaukaoobaootaunana-baaalayaya|access-date=|website=Prajasakti|language=te|archive-date=10 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211210064651/https://www.prajasakti.com/akhamda-mauvaiitaoo-100-kaootala-maaarakanau-amdaukaoobaootaunana-baaalayaya|url-status=live}}</ref> The film crossed the {{INR}}95.9 crore worldwide gross in 11 days.<ref name="saks">{{cite news|url=https://www.sakshi.com/telugu-news/movies/akhanda-box-office-collection-balakrishna-akhanda-enters-rs-1000-crore-club|title=Akhanda Box Office Collection: 'అఖండ'జోరు.. సెంచరీ కొట్టిన బాలయ్య|date=12 December 2021|work=Sakshi|language=te|archive-date=13 December 2021|access-date=13 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213142754/https://www.sakshi.com/telugu-news/movies/akhanda-box-office-collection-balakrishna-akhanda-enters-rs-1000-crore-club|url-status=live}}</ref> By the end of its run, the film grossed ₹133.20 crores. In theatres, the film completed 50 days in 103 centres.<ref name=r1>{{Cite web |last=Today |first=Telangana |date=2022-01-20 |title=Balakrishna's 'Akhanda' completes 50 days in theatres successfully |url=https://telanganatoday.com/balakrishnas-akhanda-completes-50-days-in-theatres-successfully |access-date=2022-05-02 |website=Telangana Today |language=en-US}}</ref>
== Accolades == {| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders" |- ! scope="col"| Award{{efn|Awards, festivals and organizations are in alphabetical order.}} ! scope="col"| Date of ceremony{{efn|Date is linked to the article about the awards held that year, wherever possible.}} ! scope="col"| Category ! scope="col"| Recipient(s) ! scope="col"| Result ! scope="col" class="unsortable"| {{Abbr|Ref.|Reference}} |- !scope="row" |Filmfare Awards South |9 October 2022 |Best Film – Telugu |Miryala Ravinder Reddy |{{Nominated}} |<ref>{{Cite web |title=Winners Of The Filmfare Awards South 2022 - Telugu |url=https://www.filmfare.com/awards/filmfare-awards-south-2022/telugu/winners |access-date=2022-10-29 |website=Filmfare |language=en |archive-date=7 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230307011918/https://www.filmfare.com/awards/filmfare-awards-south-2022/telugu/winners |url-status=live }}</ref> |- |}
== Sequels == {{Main|Akhanda 2: Thaandavam}}
On 12 October 2024, a sequel titled ''Akhanda 2: Thaandavam'', went on floors with a pooja ceremony.<ref>{{cite news |title='Akhanda 2 - Thaandavam': Nandamuri Balakrishna's next with Boyapati Sreenu launched |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/akhanda-2-thaandavam-nandamuri-balakrishnas-next-with-boyapati-sreenu-launched/article68759858.ece |work=The Hindu |date=16 October 2024 |language=en-IN}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Akhanda 2: Balakrishna and Boyapati Srinu reunite for a grand sequel |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/akhanda-2-balakrishna-and-boyapati-srinu-reunite-for-a-grand-sequel-2617705-2024-10-16 |work=India Today |date=16 October 2024 |language=en}}</ref> Later, a teaser was released on 10 June 2025.<ref>{{cite news |date=10 June 2025 |title=Akhanda 2: Thaandavam' teaser: Balakrishna returns as Lord Shiva's ferocious, trishul-slinging soldier |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/akhanda-2-thaandavam-teaser-balakrishna-returns-as-lord-shivas-ferocious-trishul-slinging-soldier/article69677580.ece |access-date=11 June 2025}}</ref> It was originally supposed to release on 25 September 2025, during the Dussehra (Vijayadashami) festival holidays.<ref>{{cite news |date=10 June 2025 |title=Akhanda 2: Release date, budget, villain and cast – What we know so far |work=India TV |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/entertainment/regional-cinema/akhanda-2-release-date-budget-villain-and-cast-what-we-know-so-far-2025-06-10-994012 |access-date=11 June 2025}}</ref> The film released on 12 December 2025.<ref>{{cite news |date=10 June 2025 |title='Akhanda 2' release date out: Nandamuri Balakrishna's film to hit the screens on THIS date - Reports |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/akhanda-2-release-date-out-nandamuri-balakrishnas-film-to-hit-the-screens-on-this-date-reports/articleshow/124105053.cms |access-date=25 September 2025}}</ref>
A third installment in the ''Akhanda'' franchise, titled ''Jai Akhanda,'' was teased during the sequel.<ref>{{cite web |title=Akhanda 3 reveal planned in Akhanda 2 climax; here’s the title of the Balakrishna starrer |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/akhanda-3-reveal-planned-in-akhanda-2-climax-heres-the-tile-of-the-balakrishna-starrer/d442ac87e9163 |website=OTTplay}}</ref>
== Notes == {{notelist}}
== References == {{Reflist}}
== External links == * {{IMDb title|11773378}} {{Boyapati Srinu}} Category:2020s masala films Category:2021 Telugu-language films Category:2021 Indian films Category:2021 action drama films Category:2021 films Category:Fictional portrayals of the Andhra Pradesh Police Category:Film productions suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic Category:Films about corruption in India Category:Films about criminals Category:Films about Hinduism Category:Films about organised crime in India Category:Films about terrorism in India Category:Films based on Asian myths and legends Category:Films scored by Thaman S Category:Films set in Andhra Pradesh Category:Films set in Uttar Pradesh Category:Films shot at Ramoji Film City Category:Films shot in Goa Category:Films shot in Tamil Nadu Category:Twins in Indian films Category:Indian action drama films Category:Indian fantasy action films Category:Indian fantasy drama films Category:Indian crime action films Category:Indian films based on actual events Category:Films about mining Category:Works about mining