Telangana Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Warns Pawan Kalyan

A political storm has erupted between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh after Telangana Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy issued a strong warning to actor and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan. The minister declared that Pawan Kalyan’s films would not be permitted to screen in Telangana unless he issues a public apology for his recent remarks targeting the state.

The controversy stems from Pawan Kalyan’s recent tour of the Godavari districts, during which he claimed that the Konaseema region had lost its greenery due to the “naradishthi” (evil eye) of Telangana leaders and people. His comments triggered sharp reactions across Telangana’s political spectrum.

Speaking to the media, Komatireddy Venkat Reddy said the Telangana government would not tolerate any insult to the self-respect of the state. He emphasised that unless Pawan Kalyan withdraws his remarks and apologises immediately, his movies will not be allowed to run in Telangana theatres. The minister also clarified that he was making the statement in his official capacity as Cinematography Minister.

Meanwhile, Pawan Kalyan’s upcoming film Ustaad Bhagat Singh is expected to release in summer 2025, with its first single set to debut later this month. With the controversy intensifying, trade circles are closely watching how the dispute might affect the movie’s release and business prospects in Telangana.

Other Telangana Leaders React Strongly

Several senior Telangana political leaders also criticised Pawan Kalyan’s comments, accusing him of acting irresponsibly and attempting to provoke regional tensions. Their statements include:

Jagdish Reddy (Former Minister, MLA): “Even people who cannot control their tongue and speak senselessly are becoming Deputy Chief Ministers.”

Addanki Dayakar (Congress MLC): “Pawan Kalyan is making careless and ignorant comments.”

Vakiti Srihari (Congress Minister): “To become famous, one must work hard; speaking meaningless words doesn’t make anyone famous.”

Ponnam Prabhakar (Congress Minister): “Pawan Kalyan is speaking in a way that creates divisions among the people of both states.”

Chamal Kiran Kumar Reddy (Congress MP): “It is because people elected Pawan Kalyan that Andhra has come under bad influence.”

Balmuri Venkat (Congress MLC): “If you have any shame, leave Telangana.”

The escalating reactions from Telangana’s political leadership indicate that the dispute may intensify in the coming days unless Pawan Kalyan responds.