Speaking at the audio release function of 'Hello!', Akkineni Akhil made an oblique reference to his failed engagement to Shriya Reddy.

"As far as I am concerned, it has been an emotional journey in the last one year. If I am today confidently standing in front of you, it's because of two people - my mother and father. But for them, I can't even start to imagine what it would have been. The only way I can show my gratitude to them is by making them proud of 'Hello!'," the youngster said.

Although he didn't talk explicitly about his break-up with Shriya, the use of the word "emotional" points to something deeply personal.

Further, Akhil honestly said, "At the time this film happened to me, I was quite low on energy and confidence levels (due to the failure of 'Akhil', he meant to say)."

The now-confident actor showed his love for his parents in no small measure. He described Amala as his and his father's support system. The proud mom and dad were more than glad to receive his love!