Continue on TOI App
Open App
Login for better experience!
Login Now
Welcome! to timesofindia.com
TOI+
Live Now

Hari Hara Veera Mallu Movie Review and Release Live Updates: Pawan Kalyan's film opens to mixed reviews

Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1 – Sword vs Spirit is an epic historical adventure that blends action, emotion, and mythology against...

The Times of India | Jul 24, 2025, 22:59:06 IST

Tired of too many ads?go ad free now
22:59 (IST), Jul, 24

"More than collections or records, I feel proud that this movie told a historical truth."

22:57 (IST), Jul, 24

Pawan Kalyan says, "Our textbooks mostly glorified Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and never spoke about his cruelty. The Mughals were here for 200 years, but dynasties like the Chalukyas, Pallavas, Kakatiyas, and Vijayanagara empire ruled for centuries. However, our rulers are barely acknowledged in history."

21:32 (IST), Jul, 24

At the success meet, film distributor Ravi Shankar says, "We are expecting a record number in Nizam territory."

21:30 (IST), Jul, 24

Hari Hara Veera Mallu team attended the success meet event held in Hyderabad.

20:40 (IST), Jul, 24

Pawan Kalyan apologises to the media for arriving late for the Hari Hara Veera Mallu success meet

16:54 (IST), Jul, 24

Shocking! Shows canceled in Tirupati on opening day

Tired of too many ads?go ad free now
16:37 (IST), Jul, 24

Pawan Kalyan gives fans life lessons

Pawan Kalyan at 'HHVM' press meet, “A strong body is essential for strong mind” Learn any martial arts, start with kick boxing, easiest of all.

16:20 (IST), Jul, 24

It's Veera's Time ???? Wishing the team of #HariHaraVeeraMallu all the success❤️ A lot of hearts gone into this, hoping for a powerful blockbuster! ???? Super excited to watch Kalyan babai again on the Big Screen!! Power storm is coming! ❤️

 

- Varun Tej Konidela

16:04 (IST), Jul, 24

'HHVM' celebrates Sanatana Dharma, Pawan Kalyan

The Jizya tax, a punitive levy imposed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb on Hindus for practicing their faith, stands as a stark symbol of oppression, yet historians have long softened its brutality. #HariHaraVeeraMallu boldly unmasks this injustice, exposing the erasure of Hindu suffering and the looting of India’s wealth, like the Kohinoor’s theft. With unwavering resolve, this saga celebrates Sanatana Dharma and the courage of our unsung heroes who defied tyranny.

15:59 (IST), Jul, 24

Niddhi Agerwal enjoys fans' celebration

15:42 (IST), Jul, 24

Chandrababu Naidu wishes Pawan Kalyan for 'HHVM'

పవన్ కళ్యాణ్ గారి అభిమానులు, ప్రేక్షకులు ఎన్నాళ్ళుగానో ఎదురుచూస్తున్న #HariHaraVeeraMallu చిత్రం విడుదల సందర్భంగా శుభాకాంక్షలు. మిత్రులు పవన్ కళ్యాణ్ గారు... చారిత్రాత్మక కథాంశంతో రూపొందించిన చిత్రంలో తొలిసారి నటించిన 'హరిహర వీరమల్లు' సూపర్ హిట్ కావాలని కోరుకుంటున్నాను. ప్రభుత్వంలో డిప్యూటీ సీఎంగా కీలక బాధ్యతలు నిర్వర్తిస్తూనే... సమయాన్ని సర్దుబాటు చేసుకుని నటించిన ఈ సినిమా అన్ని వర్గాలను ఆకట్టుకోవాలని ఆకాంక్షిస్తున్నాను.

15:21 (IST), Jul, 24

Wishing you & your entire team the very best for #HariHaraVeeraMallu ⚔️

 

- Arjun Das

14:57 (IST), Jul, 24

Thaman celebrates Hari Hara Veera Mallu

14:46 (IST), Jul, 24

Niddhi Agerwal earns praise for her role

Tired of too many ads?go ad free now
14:31 (IST), Jul, 24

'Hari Hara Veera Mallu': Fans rock with their celebrations

14:17 (IST), Jul, 24

MM Keeravani's BGM steals the show

Overall must watch film ???? BGM aithe next level anthe .. Kalyan babu ONE MAN SHOW ???? VFX is also good for that budget ???????? everyone watch #HariHaraVeeeraMallu

14:04 (IST), Jul, 24

'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' is a feast for family audience

#HariHaraVeeeraMallu bookings ???????????? Emerges as a super hit .. Feast for fans Family audience ????, says netizen

13:52 (IST), Jul, 24

'Hari Hara Veera Mallu': Weak CG scenes undergo correction

Hari Hara Veera Mallu shines with @PawanKalyan ’s powerful screen presence and a solid story. Some scenes feel off due to patchy VFX and continuity, but it’s still a decent watch. PS: Some weak CG scenes have been removed in the latest version.

13:35 (IST), Jul, 24

Pawan Kalyan's big screen return turns festival for fans

Powerstar @PawanKalyan garu is back on the big screen after 2 years and it feels like a festival. Title card and entry ???????????????????????? #HariHaraVeeraMallu

13:17 (IST), Jul, 24

'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' gets an average opening in pre-sales

12:55 (IST), Jul, 24

What an experience. - Twitter review

One Twitter review reads, "What an experience. Never would have expected PSPK in such a golden role. The intensity was powerful. The action sequences were perfectly choreographed with excellent VFX shots. Kreem sir never disappoints. Nidhi lived her role!

Rating - 4.9/5."

12:24 (IST), Jul, 24

A missed opportunity for Pawan Kalyan - Twitter review

One Twitter user wrote, "1) #HHVM is a missed opportunity for Pawan Kalyan to establish himself as a pan-India star. 2) VFX is much worse than what we saw in the trailer. Everything looked really cheap. 3) Zero care has been taken on the looks of Pawan Kalyan, he looked very old & untidy. Romantic scenes with @AgerwalNidhhi who's half his age were cringe-worthy & tests your patience. 4) Pawan Kalyan seemed really uninterested in acting. He is no longer the actor we watched growing up."

11:53 (IST), Jul, 24

OTT Release Likely by August-End

While the theatrical release is now underway, many are already looking ahead to the OTT premiere. The digital rights for 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' have been picked up by Prime Video. Though the makers haven’t revealed an official streaming date yet, reports suggest that the film is likely to start streaming on the platform by the end of August. For those who might miss the big-screen experience or want to revisit the epic story at home, the wait may not be too long.

11:37 (IST), Jul, 24

Pawan Kalyan’s Fans Light Up Vijayawada Streets

Vijayawada came alive with vibrant energy on Thursday as fans of actor and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan gathered to celebrate the theatrical release of Hari Hara Veera Mallu Part One. Supporters of the Kushi actor were seen wearing custom-made shirts printed with Pawan Kalyan’s image. Outside theatres in Vijayawada, they danced and cheered, waving Hari Hara Veera Mallu posters and raising slogans in support of the actor. The streets turned into a stage of celebration as visuals captured the devoted fan base celebrating what felt like a grand festival. This release marks an important moment for fans who have been eagerly waiting since his last appearance in OG.

11:13 (IST), Jul, 24

Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 2 title revealed

The film’s climax brings with it a big reveal—the official title of the sequel. While fans have long known that Hari Hara Veera Mallu would be a two-part saga, the end of Part 1 formally introduces the next chapter. As reported by 123 Telugu, the sequel is titled Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 2 – Battlefield, with Yuddhabhoomi as its Telugu title. The story closes with a cliffhanger that merges fiction with historical references, hinting at a larger conflict in store, and laying the groundwork for an action-heavy continuation in Part 2.

10:59 (IST), Jul, 24

Rs 50 crore advance sets strong base; Will it beat Game Changer?

The film opened its advance bookings with momentum. Reports from Sacnilk noted that domestic pre-sales stood at over Rs 20 crore by Thursday evening, with overseas bookings crossing Rs 10 crore. As the final numbers settled, Hari Hara Veera Mallu recorded an estimated Rs 30 crore gross from advance bookings in India alone. Internationally, the film pulled in another Rs 16 crore, including a notable Rs 4.5 crore from North America. Together, this gives the film a solid Rs 50 crore head start before hitting the screens—a crucial boost for a project with a massive Rs 300 crore budget.

10:46 (IST), Jul, 24

Fans celebrate Hari Hara Veera Mallu with a heartfelt gesture

As part of the ongoing Hari Hara Veera Mallu celebrations, fans came together at Sandhya Theatre, Bangalore, not just to cheer for the film but to share kindness—donating food to those in need. A perfect blend of celebration and compassion.

10:46 (IST), Jul, 24

"Battle for Dharma Begins" - Pawan Kalyan

Pawan Kalyan shared a Tweet that read, "The Jizya tax, a punitive levy imposed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb on Hindus for practicing their faith, stands as a stark symbol of oppression, yet historians have long softened its brutality. #HariHaraVeeraMallu boldly unmasks this injustice, exposing the erasure of Hindu suffering and the looting of India’s wealth, like the Kohinoor’s theft. With unwavering resolve, this saga celebrates Sanatana Dharma and the courage of our unsung heroes who defied tyranny."

10:00 (IST), Jul, 24

MM Keeravaani's Score Wins Hearts

While the spectacle and star power have drawn attention, it is MM Keeravaani’s music that’s truly making waves. The Oscar-winning composer has delivered a charged and atmospheric score that elevates the film’s most intense moments. His compositions shine especially in the action sequences, injecting emotion and intensity that resonate with the audience. Online, the admiration has been pouring in, with fans lovingly dubbing him “Konidela Keeravaani”

09:40 (IST), Jul, 24

"I Would Love to Retire": Pawan Kalyan Reflects on His Journey

As Hari Hara Veera Mallu hits the big screens today, much buzz surrounds the film’s leading man, Pawan Kalyan—not just for his on-screen presence, but for what might be his final lap in the world of cinema. Speaking to News18 Showsha, the superstar and Andhra Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister confirmed that he is preparing to take complete retirement from acting. "I’ll definitely retire. I would love to retire," he said candidly. Interestingly, he had made up his mind to quit films long ago. “By 2006-2007, I wanted to quit films. I had actually thought that I’ll direct five films and then quit the industry,” he shared.

09:20 (IST), Jul, 24

It's Veera's Time - Varun Tej Konidela

Actor Varun Tej Konidela wrote on Twitter, "It's Veera's Time ???? Wishing the team of #HariHaraVeeraMallu all the success❤️ A lot of hearts gone into this, hoping for a powerful blockbuster! ???? Super excited to watch Kalyan babai again on the Big Screen!! Power storm is coming!."

08:53 (IST), Jul, 24

Wishing my guru a historic blockbuster - Sai Dharam Tej

Sai Dharam Tej wrote on Twitter, "The Power Storm we've all been waiting for is finally coming to the big screens in just a few hours.. Wishing my guru
@PawanKalyan mama, a historic blockbuster with #HariHaraVeeraMallu."

08:19 (IST), Jul, 24

I pray to god to make the film a huge blockbuster like Gabbar Singh

 

- Pawan Kalyan

07:58 (IST), Jul, 24

Mediocre 1st half - Twitter review

One Twitter review for the Pawan Kalyan starrer reads, "Mediocre 1st half, as of now Kusthi fight to look out for..!! rest felt like watching a serial. PawanKalyan entry is just ok. Kreem sir doing his best from start. Good interval bang.!! Stage set for 2nd half #HariHaraVeeraMallu."

07:17 (IST), Jul, 24

'I’ll consider my remuneration only if...' - Pawan Kalyan

Days before the release of the film, the actor opened up about his remuneration for 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu'. He said, "Even my remuneration for this…. I don’t know, I’ll consider it if it may become a hit tomorrow."

06:58 (IST), Jul, 24

Superb 1st Half - Twitter review

One Twitter review reads, "Superb 1st Half with a MASSIVE Twist! ???????????? Keeravani garu's BGM = PURE GOOSEBUMPS ???????????????????? Totally UNEXPECTED BLOCKBUSTER 1st HALF!."

06:46 (IST), Jul, 24

Pawan Kalyan starrer impress or failed to?

While some fans praised specific sequences—particularly the much-hyped Kusthi fight—others felt the film lacked the spark they hoped for. One user mentioned, “Hari Hara Veera Mallu’s interval brings the heat, but the first half’s slow serial vibes & big action miss the mark.” Another tweet called out the action, stating, “Kusthi Fight will stand as one of best action sequence in Telugu – Excellent ????.” Others, however, weren’t convinced. “No grip on storytelling, visual effects & drama doesn’t work. Big second half needed to be even average. Torture so far!!,” one viewer tweeted bluntly. For many, the core issue lay in the film’s narration. A user observed, “PK’s screen presence is OK. But bad first half and worst second half. VFX is horrible. Scenes are like bits and pieces stitched together.” Another tweet echoed the sentiment, stating that the film’s religious undertones felt “forced,” with only Keeravani’s music standing out amid the chaos. Despite a star-studded cast featuring Bobby Deol, Nidhhi Agerwal, Nora Fatehi, Nargis Fakhri and Sathyaraj—and a technically rich crew with names like Manoj Paramahamsa and action masters Nick Powell and Peter Hein—the early response shows Hari Hara Veera Mallu may not be the sweeping spectacle fans had hoped for.

06:16 (IST), Jul, 24

How much remuneration did Pawan Kalyan get for Hari Hara Veera Mallu?

At a recent promotional event for the film, Pawan Kalyan was asked about his remuneration for Hari Hara Veera Mallu. While there’s been speculation that he was paid somewhere between Rs 11 crore and Rs 20 crore—significantly less than the reported ₹50 crore he received for Bro—Pawan himself gave a rather open-ended and humble reply. “Even my remuneration for this... (laughs). I don’t know, I’ll consider it if it may become a hit tomorrow,” he said, suggesting that he is prioritising the success of the film over his own payment. His comment reflects a certain detachment from commercial gain and a focus on safeguarding the interests of the producer.

05:54 (IST), Jul, 24

First half’s slow serial vibes - Twitter review

Mixed reviews are also in for the Pawan Kalyan starrer as one Twitter review reads, "Hari Hara Veera Mallu’s interval brings the heat, but the first half’s slow serial vibes & big action miss the mark. ⚔️????
Little bit over-the-top fights drag it down."

05:16 (IST), Jul, 24

"Perfect action flick" - Twitter review

One Twitter review reads, "#HariHaraVeerMallu. Kusthi Fight will stand as One of Best Action sequence in telugu. Excellent."

05:14 (IST), Jul, 24

"Veera is a mysterious robber, a kind of Robin Hood. He will be given a task by Kuli Kutub Shah. This is not about Hindus vs Muslims. It’s about a common man rising against tyrannical rule."

 

- Pawan Kalyan

05:08 (IST), Jul, 24

First Twitter Review of ‘Hari Hara Veera Mallu’

The excitement around Hari Hara Veera Mallu has reached a fever pitch as the film gears up for its grand release on July 24. Not only does it mark Power Star Pawan Kalyan’s return to the big screen, but it also comes just days after he took office as Deputy Chief Minister—making it a moment of double celebration for his fans.

Now, just a day before its official release, the film’s first review has surfaced online—and it's creating waves. A Twitter user who attended the paid premiere shared their thoughts, saying, “What an experience. Never would have expected PSPK in such a golden role. The intensity was powerful. The action sequences were perfectly choreographed with excellent VFX shots. Kreem sir never disappoints. Nidhi lived her role!”

05:07 (IST), Jul, 24

Heavy Police Deployment at Sandhya Theatre for Pawan Kalyan’s Film Amid Safety Concerns

In the wake of a tragic stampede during the Pushpa 2 premiere that claimed the life of a woman and left her child critically ill, authorities have stepped up security measures for the screening of Hari Hara Veera Mallu, starring Pawan Kalyan.

On July 23, around 80 police personnel, led by an ACP-rank officer, were deployed at Sandhya Theatre at RTC Cross Roads to ensure crowd control and prevent any untoward incident. The move comes as a precautionary measure following public outcry and legal action over the Pushpa 2 tragedy. In that case, not only was the theatre management held accountable, but even lead actor Allu Arjun was reportedly arrested in connection with the incident.

The authorities are taking no chances this time, especially given the massive turnout and fan frenzy surrounding Pawan Kalyan’s much-anticipated period drama. Police presence remains tight, with clear instructions to maintain order throughout the screenings.

05:04 (IST), Jul, 24

‘Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1 – Sword vs Spirit’

Anticipation is sky-high as Hari Hara Veera Mallu prepares to storm the box office. Ticket pre-sales in Telugu-speaking regions have witnessed a phenomenal response, with packed early shows and fan celebrations already underway. Many believe this could become the biggest box office success of Pawan Kalyan’s illustrious career.

The film stars Nidhhi Agerwal opposite Pawan Kalyan, bringing both grace and grit to her role. Bollywood actor Bobby Deol steps into the shoes of the fierce and calculating Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, setting the stage for a powerful on-screen face-off.

Directed by AM Jyoti Krishna and produced by A. Dayakar Rao, Hari Hara Veera Mallu promises more than just spectacle.

05:03 (IST), Jul, 24

Pawan Kalyan’s ‘Hari Hara Veera Mallu’ Gears Up for Grand Premiere Tonight; US Release Back on Track

Pawan Kalyan’s much-awaited period action drama Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1 – Sword vs Spirit is all set to light up screens tonight with special premiere shows planned across multiple regions. Directed by Jyothi Krisna, the film will be released in several languages, and the buzz around it has reached a fever pitch among fans.

Earlier this week, concerns had surfaced regarding delays in sending the digital prints to the US, especially the second half of the film. Fortunately, those issues have now been fully resolved. The complete content has reached the US just in time, and local distribution is currently in progress—ensuring that the overseas premiere screenings will proceed smoothly and as scheduled.

Meanwhile, the film’s runtime has also been revealed. The first half clocks in at 1 hour, 26 minutes, and 40 seconds, while the second half runs for a tighter 1 hour, 18 minutes, and 25 seconds—hinting at a sharp, engaging narrative arc.

05:02 (IST), Jul, 24

Pawan Kalyan Shines as a Rebel Hero in the Grand, Gritty Epic ‘Hari Hara Veera Mallu’

Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1 – Sword vs Spirit brings history to life with heart and heroism. Set in the 17th-century Mughal Empire, the film follows Veera Mallu, a courageous outlaw-turned-rebel played by Pawan Kalyan, on a bold quest to steal the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond—not for power, but to liberate a suffering city. Directed by Krish Jagarlamudi and A. M. Jyothi Krishna, the film mixes action and soul, reminding us that even in dark times, one brave voice can spark change.

Joining Kalyan is an impressive ensemble—Bobby Deol, Nidhhi Agerwal, Nargis Fakhri, Nora Fatehi, and Sathyaraj—each adding their own punch to the story. The film’s grandeur is matched by its technical brilliance, with stunning visuals from Manoj Paramahamsa and Gnana Shekar V.S., sharp editing by KL Praveen, and breathtaking action crafted by Nick Powell, Ram-Laxman, and Peter Hein. This is more than a period film—it’s a tribute to timeless courage.

'Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1 – Sword vs Spirit' takes audiences on a thrilling journey through the 17th-century Mughal Empire, where legend meets rebellion. At the heart of the story is Veera Mallu, a fearless outlaw played by Pawan Kalyan, who sets out on a daring mission to steal the priceless Koh-i-Noor diamond from the clutches of the Mughal rulers. His goal? To free a city held hostage and ignite hope among the oppressed. Directed by Krish Jagarlamudi and A. M. Jyothi Krishna, this action-packed tale combines history, emotion, and heroism in a way that feels both grand and personal.

TOP TRENDS

Copyright © 2026 Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service