Even as the makers of Akhanda 2 are gearing up for their film’s release tomorrow, a major blow has arrived for them in the form of an order from Madras High Court that has put a stop on the film's release.
According to some reports, the order for release stay came after an appeal from Eros International Media Limited (Eros), which is an affiliation with the Akhanda 2 producers 14 Reels Plus Entertainment, and stands in a long legal battle with the banner about an old arbitration decision which was ruled in the favour of Eros. The verdict stated the Eros can get approximately Rs 28 crore. Reportedly, the order has not been met with by 14 Reels Entertainment, which has led to the stop order on the film’s release.
The Bench further ruled that Akhanda 2 may only be released if the entire arbitral award amount — amounting to nearly Rs 28 crores, plus 14% interest till the date of actual payment — is paid to Eros. This order includes a ban on any form of release — whether it's in theatres, on the internet, or on satellite — distribution, or commercial use of Akhanda 2 until further notice.
Eros had alleged that 14 Reels Plus LLP, incorporated in October 2017, was a ‘mere continuation and alter ego’ of 14 Reels Entertainment. Eros further argued that both entities are controlled by the same promoter group, and function under the widely-known 14 Reels banner. Eros asserted that Akhanda 2 release would allow the said promoters to make commercial gains without addressing the award debtor’s liabilities.
Akhanda 2 is the sequel to the 2021 blockbuster Akhanda, starring Nandamuri Balakrishna and directed by Boyapati Srinu. The film also stars Samyuktha.
