Andhra Pradesh Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh has responded strongly to the recent announcement by film exhibitors to shut down theaters starting next month. Concerned by the potential consequences, the minister has officially requested the Home Department Secretary to launch a detailed investigation into the decision.
Durgesh expressed doubts that this move may not be just an industry issue — but rather part of a larger strategy being pushed by a few influential figures within the Telugu film circuit, who are believed to be manipulating the situation for their own benefit.
The timing of this shutdown is raising alarms across Tollywood. With Pawan Kalyan’s long-awaited film Hari Hara Veera Mallu nearing its theatrical release, many believe the shutdown could be a calculated tactic aimed at derailing the film’s box office success.
Industry insiders point out that a majority of theaters are no longer in the hands of independent exhibitors. Instead, they are operated through long-term agreements controlled by a select few, who not only run the theaters but also act as producers and distributors. This consolidation has made it nearly impossible for small or new filmmakers to secure theater space, leading many theater owners to repurpose their venues into malls or event halls.
This growing dominance of a few has led to an unofficial monopoly in the Telugu film distribution network. Veteran filmmakers are also finding it difficult to make a comeback, and now, citing concerns over rental fees and profit-sharing, the proposed theater closures are being viewed as another pressure tactic.
Minister Durgesh reportedly suspects that the shutdown plan has less to do with operational concerns and more to do with strategic powerplay — possibly targeting Pawan Kalyan and his producers.
The larger concern, however, is the long-term impact on the audience. If theaters remain closed during peak seasons, viewers — already accustomed to OTT platforms and high-quality home entertainment — may never return in full force. The damage could be irreversible.