Pawan Kalyan's 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' faces controversy over historical representation days before its release

With just weeks to go before its grand release, Pawan Kalyan's much-awaited historical action drama 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu', directed by AM Jyothi Krisna, seems to be facing a backlash from several community groups in Telangana who allege that the film disrespects a revered historical figure.As per a report by 123Telugu, multiple Backward Classes (BC) associations and Mudhiraj community groups have raised objections over the portrayal of the film’s lead character, Veera Mallu, played by Pawan Kalyan. These groups claim that the character seems to be inspired by Panduga Sayanna, a celebrated folk hero known for fighting against oppression and supporting the cause of the poor and marginalised. However, the film reportedly makes no reference to Sayanna or acknowledges this connection, which has sparked anger among community leaders.Many within the Bahujan and BC communities argue that omitting Sayanna's name or legacy from a character that appears to be based on his life amounts to erasing an important chapter of their cultural history. Community leaders have demanded clarity from the makers of 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu,' calling on them to either confirm or deny the connection and, if necessary, make changes to the film's narrative.The report also suggests that some groups are threatening to protest or even block the release of the film if their concerns are not addressed in time. So far, the production team and the makers have not released an official statement in response to the controversy.'Hari Hara Veera Mallu' is a pan-India film that also includes Nidhhi Agerwal, Bobby Deol, Satyaraj, Nassar, Vennela Kishore, and others. The music has been composed by Oscar-winner M.M. Keeravani.The film will be released in multiple languages on July 24, 2025.