Akhanda is a 2021 Telugu-language action-drama starring Nandamuri Balakrishna in the lead role. Directed by Boyapati Srinu, the film marks the third collaboration between Balakrishna and Boyapati, after their previous hits Simha (2010) and Legend (2014). Known for high-octane action sequences, larger-than-life storytelling, and powerful heroism, Akhanda was one of the most anticipated films of 2021.
Produced by Miryala Ravinder Reddy under the Dwaraka Creations banner, the film created immense pre-release buzz with its intense trailer, powerful dialogues, and mass appeal. With Balakrishna playing a dual role, the film promised an action-packed spiritual thriller filled with mythological references and divine power.
But did Akhanda live up to the massive expectations? Let’s analyze the film’s storyline, performances, IMDb rating, budget, and box office performance in this honest review.
Akhanda – Storyline & Plot Analysis
The story follows Murali Krishna (played by Nandamuri Balakrishna), a well-respected leader who fights against injustice in his region. He is a noble, righteous man trying to bring peace to society. However, his village is threatened by corrupt forces and ruthless mining mafia, led by Varadarajulu (played by Srikanth).
When things spiral out of control, Murali Krishna’s twin brother, Akhanda Rudra Sikandar Aghora (also played by Balakrishna), enters the scene. Akhanda is a fierce devotee of Lord Shiva, raised with a divine purpose to eliminate evil and restore Dharma.
As the story unfolds, Akhanda’s divine power and intense action sequences make up the most thrilling moments of the film. His confrontation with the villains and mythological references elevate the spiritual intensity of the narrative.
The film is packed with high-voltage action, powerful dialogues, and a heavy dose of religious symbolism, making it a mass entertainer for Balakrishna’s fans.
Akhanda Cast & Performances
Lead Cast
- Nandamuri Balakrishna as Akhanda / Murali Krishna – Balakrishna delivers a power-packed dual role, portraying Murali Krishna’s calm persona and Akhanda’s fiery intensity. His performance as Akhanda (the Aghora) steals the show with electrifying screen presence and larger-than-life action.
- Pragya Jaiswal as Dr. Saranya – She plays Murali Krishna’s wife and a compassionate doctor. While her role is limited, she delivers a decent performance.
Supporting Cast
- Srikanth as Varadarajulu – Srikanth, in a negative role, does a great job portraying a ruthless and power-hungry antagonist.
- Jagapathi Babu as a spiritual guru – Though he has limited screen time, his character adds depth to the story.
- Shamna Kasim (Poorna) as an Aghori woman – Her brief yet impactful role adds to the film’s spiritual essence.
Performance Verdict
✅ Balakrishna’s dual role is outstanding—his portrayal of Akhanda is one of his best performances.
✅ Srikanth delivers a solid villain performance, adding tension to the film.
✅ Supporting cast does justice to their roles, but Pragya Jaiswal has a limited scope.
Direction, Screenplay, and Cinematography
Direction
Director Boyapati Srinu is known for his mass action entertainers, and he delivers yet again with Akhanda. He masterfully blends high-octane action, spiritual elements, and mythological storytelling, creating an electrifying cinematic experience.
Screenplay
The screenplay is fast-paced, with non-stop action, intense dialogues, and powerful confrontations. However, the story is predictable, following the usual commercial action film template.
Cinematography
Cinematographer C. Ram Prasad ensures that the film looks visually grand. The action sequences, temple visuals, and fire-lit spiritual settings enhance the mythological intensity of the film.
Music and Background Score
Music
The film’s music, composed by Thaman S, is one of its biggest strengths. The songs blend mass appeal with devotional themes, complementing the film’s high-energy action sequences.
Notable Songs
- “Adigaa Adigaa” – A romantic melody featuring Balakrishna and Pragya Jaiswal.
- “Jai Balayya” – A mass song that celebrates Balakrishna’s powerful character.
- “Akhanda Title Song” – The most impactful track, perfectly matching the film’s intense theme.
Background Score
Thaman’s BGM is spine-chilling, particularly in Akhanda’s entry sequences and action scenes. His powerful score elevates the film’s impact, making the fight scenes feel grand and immersive.
IMDb Rating and Public Reception
Upon its release, Akhanda received highly positive reviews from fans, especially for its mass action sequences and Balakrishna’s intense performance.
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
- Critics: Praised Balakrishna’s performance, Thaman’s background score, and the film’s action sequences.
- Audience Response: Fans loved the larger-than-life portrayal of Akhanda, while some viewers felt the film was over-the-top in certain scenes.
Positive Aspects
✅ Balakrishna’s performance as Akhanda is electrifying.
✅ Action sequences are grand, intense, and well-choreographed.
✅ Thaman’s background score enhances the mass appeal.
✅ Cinematography and spiritual elements are well-executed.
Budget & Box Office Performance
Budget
The estimated budget for Akhanda was ₹60 crore, considering its high production values, grand visuals, and star-studded cast.
Box Office Collection
Akhanda became a massive box office hit, performing exceptionally well in both domestic and international markets.
Box Office Breakdown
- Opening Day Collection: ₹15.3 crore
- First Weekend Collection: ₹50 crore
- Lifetime Gross (India): ₹120+ crore
- Overseas Collection: ₹20+ crore
- Total Worldwide Collection: ₹140+ crore
The film emerged as one of the biggest Telugu blockbusters of 2021, proving Balakrishna’s unwavering mass appeal.
OTT Release and Digital Reception
After its phenomenal theatrical run, Akhanda was released on Disney+ Hotstar, where it continued to gain popularity.
OTT Success Factors
✔️ Grand action sequences appeal to digital audiences.
✔️ Became one of the most-watched Telugu films on Hotstar.
✔️ High repeat value among mass film lovers.
Final Verdict – Honest Review
What Works?
✅ Balakrishna’s career-best performance as Akhanda.
✅ Larger-than-life action sequences and mass dialogues.
✅ Thaman’s phenomenal background score.
✅ Powerful visual effects and cinematography.
Conclusion
Akhanda is a true-blue mass action blockbuster, fueled by Balakrishna’s intense performance, Boyapati’s direction, and Thaman’s powerful music. Despite a predictable storyline, the film’s action sequences and mythological elements make it a highly engaging watch.