Anil Ravipudi‘s latest directorial venture, “Bhagavanth Kesari,” featuring the renowned Nandamuri Balakrishna, has been making significant waves in the Telugu film industry since its release on October 19. Garnering widespread acclaim and support from audiences, the film has emerged as a box office sensation, amassing a staggering sum of Rs 75 crore within a brief period, with prospects of further success in the weeks ahead.
Nandamuri Balakrishna, who encountered a series of setbacks until 2021, experienced a remarkable resurgence with the success of “Akhanda,” directed by Boyapati Sreenu, which marked a pivotal turning point in his career, catapulting him to the forefront of the industry. Bolstering his winning streak with subsequent hits such as “Veera Simha Reddy” and “Bhagavanth Kesari,” Nandamuri Balakrishna reportedly secured a substantial remuneration of 18 crores for his role in the latter, paving the way for a significant 10-crore hike in his paycheck. Consequently, industry insiders anticipate that his upcoming collaboration with Bobby, under the esteemed Naga Vams banner, will command a remarkable fee of 28 crores, underscoring his growing prominence and influence in the industry.
Balakrishna’s pragmatic approach to compensation distinguishes him from his peers, as he consciously opts for a moderate fee despite his recent string of triumphs. His collaborative and professional demeanour, coupled with a strong work ethic and punctuality, has earned him admiration and respect from producers and colleagues alike. Notably, his commitment to delivering timely and efficient performances has streamlined the production process, sparing stakeholders from the potential delays commonly associated with film projects.
In “Bhagavanth Kesari,” Nandamuri Balakrishna’s portrayal of a character reflective of his actual age sets him apart from industry counterparts like Nagarjuna and Chiranjeevi, who frequently undertake roles that skew younger. Notably, his role as Srileela’s father adds a distinctive dimension to his on-screen persona, captivating audiences with its emotive depth and authenticity.
The film’s successful premiere witnessed a commendable 62.03% occupancy rate, with the night show setting a new record at 72.34% occupancy, attesting to the overwhelming support and enthusiasm from eager audiences. Furthermore, the film’s notable box office performance prompted comparisons and discussions with Chiranjeevi’s “Waltair Veerayya,” underscoring the dynamism and competitiveness within the Telugu film industry.