Pawan Kalyan's Unwavering Support for 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu'

I Will Stand By the Film Industry That Fed Me and the Producer Who Believed in Me: Power Star Pawan Kalyan at 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' Press Meet

The highly anticipated period action epic, 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu,' starring Power Star Pawan Kalyan as a warrior championing Dharma, is generating immense excitement among fans and cinema lovers alike. Presented by renowned producer A.M. Rathnam and produced on a grand budget by A. Dayakar Rao under the Mega Surya Production banner, this historical drama is directed by A.M. Jyothi Krishna and Krish Jagarlamudi. With Nidhhi Agerwal and Bobby Deol in pivotal roles, the film is set for a worldwide release on July 24th. The promotional material, especially the recently unveiled trailer, has already doubled the buzz. The film team recently held a grand press meet at the Janasena Party central office, where Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan engaged in an insightful interaction with media representatives.

Pawan Kalyan: A Deep-Rooted Commitment to Cinema and Its Battles

Addressing the media, Pawan Kalyan admitted his usual reluctance for film promotions but emphasized his presence for producer A.M. Rathnam: "I have often interacted with media friends regarding politics, but I haven't spoken much for a film like this. I feel hesitant to promote cinema. I know how to work, but it's difficult for me to boast about my efforts. I became an actor and technician by chance. My silence on cinema is not due to arrogance or ego; it's simply my nature. However, the reason I held this press meet is for A.M. Rathnam Garu. Cinema must survive. We held this press meet before the evening's pre-release event, thinking we might not get another chance to speak with media friends later."

He passionately articulated the immense struggles faced during the film's production: "As Trivikram Garu wrote in Agnathavasi, 'Even for a small comfort, one might have to fight a war.' Imagine the battles required to make a film—financially, creatively. Before I entered films, I used to wish that someone like A.M. Rathnam Garu would be my producer. He is the visionary who elevated regional cinema to a national level, successfully releasing Tamil films in Telugu and making them run like straight films, proving his mettle. He is a person who significantly boosted the creative potential of the film industry. This film faced numerous challenges – natural calamities, human-induced obstacles, and even political adversities. No matter what, we always strive for the film to turn out well. For this specific film, I witnessed A.M. Rathnam Garu's extraordinary dedication."

Kalyan highlighted his personal commitment despite his political responsibilities: "Especially after I entered politics and my primary focus shifted to governance, when he approached me to do a film again, I gave my absolute best. Despite my limited time, I had to shoot for almost 57 days just for the climax. We shot in the scorching heat of May. The martial arts I learned globally long ago proved invaluable for this film. We meticulously designed the climax with the choreographers; it is the absolute lifeline of the film."

He briefly touched upon the film's intriguing historical backdrop: "To briefly tell you about the film, it's a subtle narrative about how the invaluable Kohinoor diamond, found near Kolluru on the banks of the Krishna River, eventually reached the Mughals from the Qutb Shahis. The foundation for this concept was laid by Krish Jagarlamudi Garu. He came with a brilliant idea. When he and Rathnam Garu narrated this story, I was instantly captivated and agreed. However, the Corona pandemic severely impacted the film."

Kalyan expressed his deep concern for Rathnam's struggles: "I have seen A.M. Rathnam Garu up close. There was a time when producers, distributors, heroes, and directors used to flock to him. During the film Kushi, he provided us with such comfort that our pre-production was completed a month in advance. It pained me to see such a person struggling. This is not about money or success; it's about standing by our own people, for the film industry, with unwavering belief. Even though Krish Garu couldn't complete this film for some reasons, my heartfelt thanks to him for laying its strong conceptual foundation."

He also acknowledged the new director and music composer: "When I was doing Kushi, Jyothi Krishna was studying filmmaking in London. Talking to him, he struck me as a sensible director. At a time when there were doubts about whether this film would even be completed, Keeravaani Garu breathed life into it. I always focus on film quality, not self-promotion. But for this film, I felt it was necessary to speak. At a time when producers are becoming scarce, with the intention of supporting a strong producer who made a film and withstood immense challenges, I came here, leaving my busy schedule and facing criticism. Because the film industry fed me. Many media friends here know me personally. I have immense respect for cinema. I don't want a producer like Rathnam Garu to face difficulties. So, I took this film onto my shoulders. Rathnam Garu, Jyothi Krishna Garu, Manoj Paramahamsa Garu worked tirelessly, sacrificing sleep for this film. Also, Nidhhi Agerwal took on the responsibility of film promotion. This film is not an orphan; I am here today to declare my unwavering support. I am someone who stands by crores of people, who responds to problems in the country. Why would I abandon my film then?"

He underscored the industry's meritocracy: "Rathnam Garu started as a humble makeup man and rose step by step to become a director, writer, and producer. Despite facing numerous difficulties and external pressures, he remains silently resilient. The film industry, irrespective of caste, religion, or region, allows anyone with talent to shine. That's why I hold such profound respect for it. Making a film is like a Yagna. We don't even know if it will yield profits. I came here to speak about Rathnam Garu's goodness and the excellent film he has made. After becoming Deputy CM, I allocated two hours of my personal time every day to ensure no disruption to governance. Accordingly, Jyothi Krishna and Paramahamsa Garu planned the shoot meticulously. The output is phenomenal. Jyothi Krishna showed pre-visualizations of how every scene would be done beforehand. He is a capable director with a strong command over technical departments. Manoj Paramahamsa Garu complemented him perfectly. With Rathnam Garu's experience, these two together molded the film magnificently. I wanted to give my best to Rathnam Garu, my favorite producer, a producer who stands by the Telugu industry. As the Film Development Corporation Chairman, I proposed Rathnam Garu's name to Chief Minister Chandrababu Garu. Not because he is my producer, but because such an individual would genuinely benefit the film industry. I believe that this film will offer a wonderful experience to all audiences who come to the theater. Cinema should have some impact on our lives. I hope this film will be one that provides such an impact and energy."

Key Questions & Pawan Kalyan's Responses:

• Question: Can 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' be considered a film made with the concept of Sanatana Dharma in mind?

  • Answer: This film depicts the atrocities of a cruel Mughal emperor like Aurangzeb, who even brutally killed his own brother. It's a film about a warrior who fought for Dharma. We have shown the struggle to protect Dharma in a situation where Hindus were forced to pay various taxes to live as Hindus.

• Question: As Deputy Chief Minister, don't you find it difficult to balance films, administration, and politics?

  • Answer: I give politics the first priority in my life. After that comes cinema. My livelihood comes from acting in films. Cinema has fed me and given me my living.

• Question: Unlike before, you are specifically promoting 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' this time. What is the reason for this change?

  • Answer: This film is very special. Its production faced many challenges. It withstood natural calamities, human-induced adversities, and political obstacles. The producers stood with immense courage in many situations. I felt it was my duty to stand by a producer who showed such courage. I felt it was my responsibility to do promotions.

• Question: It seems you faced many difficulties during the making of this film?

  • Answer: During the film's production, I faced many political challenges. Significant events occurred, like me being confined in a hotel in Visakhapatnam. Also, the previous rulers troubled us by reducing my film's ticket prices to ₹10 or ₹15. Just like how people in Seema used to cut down cashew trees to hit the financial roots of their enemies, the producers who made films with me suffered greatly due to the mindset of the previous rulers. Many attempts were made to completely undermine me. Overcoming all these issues and having this film released now brings me great joy.

• Question: Did the conditions when you started this film feel different from the current conditions?

  • Answer: Making a film itself is a great struggle. We move forward experiencing this daily. We faced many struggles during the production of this film.

• Question: How do you view the fact that while your films were sold at lower ticket prices by the previous government, now ticket prices have increased?

  • Answer: My film's ticket prices increased just like all other films. My film was not given a special ticket price hike. The government approves ticket price increases for films by considering the producers' hard work and efforts.

• Question: This is your first film after becoming Deputy CM. Will you screen it for your fellow MLAs, MLCs, MPs, and ministers?

  • Answer: I hadn't thought of this until now. It's a good suggestion. I will definitely arrange a special show for my fellow public representatives.

• Question: The film Johnny was a disappointment. Now you are saying that you directed the last scenes of 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu.' What is your experience then and now?

  • Answer: The result of the film Johnny can be said to have made me more resilient in my political life. As soon as the film received a flop talk, I called all the buyers and financiers home and settled with them. I remained silent for many days. That day, the result of Johnny taught me how to move forward when facing failure in politics. I understood from Johnny that only by overcoming failures in life can you reach your goal. It later became an inspiring lesson in my political life.

• Question: Will your film face a theater shortage issue like other films? Is there a possibility of 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' Part 2?

  • Answer: There will be no theater shortage. I have never faced a situation where theaters were not given for my films. 20% of 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' Part 2 has also been completed.

• Question: Will you continue to do films while being in politics?

  • Answer: That is God's will. If His blessings are there, anything is possible. We cannot predict the future right now, can we?

• Question: What needs to be done for the film industry to grow in Andhra Pradesh like in Hyderabad?

  • Answer: There is a need for the Telugu film industry to grow in Andhra Pradesh like in Hyderabad. We will prioritize providing suitable facilities and amenities for this. Especially, it would be good if film schools increase here. This will lead to more film productions and expand opportunities.

Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre: A Pan-India Icon

"Pawan Kalyan has fans not just in Telugu states but all over India — even in Karnataka. He’s not only a great actor but a great human being, committed to public service. I wish the film becomes a massive success.”

AP Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh: Patriotism and Leadership

“With a massive fan base and relentless work for the poor, Pawan Kalyan garu is a leader who practices what he preaches. This film’s theme will ignite patriotism and nationalism in youth. My best wishes to the whole team.”

Deputy Speaker Raghurama Krishnam Raju: An Emotional Force

“In this film, we’ll witness what Veera Mallu did to realize Shivaji’s dream. Pawan Kalyan garu is an emotion. A.M. Ratnam garu is a brave producer. All the best to the entire team!”

Actor Brahmanandam: A Self-Made Man of Humanity

“Pawan Kalyan garu is a man filled with humanity. I’ve known him since he was 17. He never walked the easy path. He chose his own way — full of thorns and hardships. He is a self-made man. Destiny leads him. He rose not because of circumstances but in spite of them. The quote ‘Your birth is yours, your death is yours… but your life belongs to the nation’ suits him perfectly.”

Producer A.M. Ratnam: A Milestone Film

“I’ve produced many films, but this is special. It’s the first film releasing after Pawan Kalyan garu became Deputy CM. Also, it’s his first historical and pan-India film. I take pride in that. This film will entertain and also make you think. You’ll witness his full power on screen. We’re confident it’ll be a blockbuster.”

Producer A. Dayakar Rao: Six Years of Dedication

“After 6 years of hard work, Hari Hara Veera Mallu is finally releasing. We made it with all our heart. Now it’s time for fans to take it to the next level. If the trailer excited you, the film will do even more!”

Director Jyothi Krishna: Fulfilling a Vision

“Thanks to Krish garu for giving us the title. Bobby Deol plays Aurangzeb, a powerful Mughal ruler. Our story begins in 1684, four years after Shivaji’s death. Shivaji’s last wish was to protect the Jyotirlingas and Kashi Vishwanath temple. Veera Mallu’s character represents that fight. Every century gives birth to a Shivaji. In this century, we have Pawan Kalyan garu. A single fight scene designed by Pawan garu inspired the entire concept of Dharma vs. tyranny. Trivikram garu appreciated that scene deeply. My father A.M. Ratnam gave us not just property but legacy. Thanks to him, I got this opportunity. Trivikram garu once told me, ‘Pawan Kalyan garu watched your film and spoke about you for 2 hours.’ That moved me to tears. I promise this film will make all his fans proud.”

Actress Nidhhi Agerwal: A Dream Come True

“Today is very emotional for me. I waited so long for this day. I’m a die-hard fan of Pawan Kalyan garu, and acting with him is a dream come true. This will stay in my heart forever. Hats off to A.M. Ratnam garu — no one else could’ve carried this film like him. As Jyothi Krishna garu says, ‘This time the date won’t change, only records will.’ I pray that comes true. Keeravaani garu gave magical music. I wish to do many more films with Manoj Paramahamsa garu.”

Whatsapp