Nayanthara to kickstart Balakrishna-Gopichand Malineni's biggie, shoot date locked | Exclusive

Nayanthara plays the female lead in Balakrishna's next that will be directed by Gopichand Malineni. After facing budget issues, the action drama will go on the floors soon.

Balakrishna-Nayanthara film-shoot date locked

Nandamuri Balakrishna disappointed his fans with the failure of Akhanda 2. Since its release, he has maintained a low profile and quietly lined up his next film under the direction of Gopichand Malineni. The project was initially planned as a period drama, but due to budget constraints, the director had to revise the script.

When will the shoot of Balakrishna's next begin?

A few days ago, Gopichand narrated a completely new story to Balayya, and the actor gave his approval. Nayanthara plays the female lead in this film, and we at OTTplay have exclusively learned that the shooting will commence on March 5, 2026. The initial schedule will feature Nayanthara’s scenes, and Balakrishna will join the shoot a few days later.

Nayanthara is riding high on the success of Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu which is currently streaming on OTTplay Premium, and she has reportedly been paid a hefty remuneration for this project to romance Balakrishna.

Is Balakrishna playing a double role in his next?

Meanwhile, rumors have been circulating that Balakrishna will be seen in a double role. However, sources close to the unit have clarified that this is untrue, and the Akhanda star will be playing only a single character.

The music for the film will be composed by S. Thaman, and the project is being backed by the makers of Pushpa. Budget issues arose after Akhanda 2 underperformed at the box office. Although the film reportedly grossed close to ₹100 crore, it incurred losses due to heavy production costs.

Balakrishna takes a pay cut for his next

Sources also reveal that Balakrishna has agreed to take a pay cut for this film and will instead opt for a profit-sharing model if the film becomes a hit. Notably, Gopichand Malineni previously directed Veera Simha Reddy with Balakrishna, marking this as their second collaboration.

The upcoming film is said to be a contemporary action drama packed with commercial elements. After the setback of Akhanda 2, Balakrishna is proceeding cautiously and taking his time before taking the film on floors.

Also Read: Eesha OTT release date: When, where to stream Hebah Patel's horror thriller

Nayanthara films FAQs

Q. Where to stream Nayanthara's Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu?

A. You can stream the film on Zee 5 and here on OTTplay Premium

Q. Which film is Nayanthara currently shooting for?

A. She will kick start shooting for Balakrishna's next in the direction of Gopichand Malineni

Q. Who is the music director for Nayanthara-Balakrishna starrer?

A. Thaman will compose the music for this film.

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