Tollywood Delegates Set to Confer with Telangana CM to Repair Relations

Hyderabad, Dec 23 (NationPress) Following the arrest of actor Allu Arjun linked to the unfortunate death of a woman in a stampede at Sandhya Theatre during the premiere of Pushpa 2: The Rule, the relationship between the Telangana government and the Telugu film industry has been strained. In response, industry representatives are scheduled to meet with Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy.

On Monday, producer Naga Vamsi indicated that the decision regarding the meeting would be finalized after Dil Raju, the newly appointed chairman of the Telangana Film Development Corporation (TFDC), returns from the United States.

Describing the incident at Sandhya Theatre as tragic, Naga Vamsi emphasized that no hero or producer wishes for such events to occur. He also dismissed rumors that the Telugu film industry might relocate to neighboring Andhra Pradesh, noting that film productions are ongoing in both states and that the Andhra Pradesh government is also supportive of the industry.

Additionally, in a gesture to connect with the Telangana government, the State Film Chamber of Commerce urged its members to contribute financially to support the family of Revathi, who tragically passed away in the stampede, while her son Sri Tej sustained injuries.

The Film Chamber convened a meeting to address the recent events and their implications.

In related news, filmmaker R. Narayana Murthy visited KIMS Hospital to check on Sri Tej, the eight-year-old boy who was injured in the stampede that claimed his mother's life. This visit was prompted by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's criticism of Allu Arjun and other industry figures for not reaching out to the bereaved family or visiting the injured child.

During an Assembly session on December 21, Revanth Reddy criticized Allu Arjun for his actions, which included visiting the theatre without police authorization and holding a 'roadshow' despite the tragic incident resulting in loss of life and serious injury.

The actor faced backlash for failing to meet the grieving family or support the injured child in the hospital.

Moreover, the Chief Minister expressed disapproval of the film personalities who flocked to Allu Arjun's residence following his release from custody. The Congress government also took issue with Allu Arjun addressing the press shortly after the Chief Minister's remarks in the Assembly, where he claimed that the allegations against him were unfounded and aimed at tarnishing his reputation.

The day after the Assembly session, police released detailed video footage of the events at Sandhya Theatre to contradict Allu Arjun's statements.

Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy announced in the Assembly that the government will prohibit benefit screenings of films prior to their official release and will not allow an increase in cinema ticket prices.

The state government has previously approved increases in ticket prices for major films featuring top stars, including Pushpa 2: The Rule.