'The Paradise' Premiere: Nani May Skip Sandhya Theatre Visit Amid Safety Concerns

The wait is finally over. Nani and Srikanth Odela’s 'The Paradise' is set for its worldwide premieres tonight, but Nani’s plan to watch the film with fans at Hyderabad’s RTC X Roads could be called off amid safety and crowd-management concerns.

Nani sought permission from Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy and the state police to attend a premiere show at RTC X Roads. Calling himself a “fan of cinema”, Nani said watching films with audiences has always been special to him and that RTC X Roads has a unique place in Hyderabad’s cinema culture. He also assured authorities that all necessary safety protocols would be followed.

The request comes nearly two years after the fatal Sandhya Theatre stampede during the 'Pushpa 2' premiere in December 2024. A 35-year-old woman died and her son was seriously injured after a crowd surge following Allu Arjun’s arrival at the theatre. Sandhya Theatre is located at RTC X Roads.

Revanth Reddy appreciated Nani’s respect for safety guidelines and asked his team to submit an official application to the designated local police station. The police will review the arrangements and take the final decision. Komatireddy also asked the team to coordinate with local police, stressing public safety and crowd management.

Nani subsequently said the team would “respect and abide by the final decision of the police department”. He added that if there were complications from a safety or crowd-management perspective, they would understand and be willing to skip the visit, particularly with Ganesh Nimarjanam arrangements underway.

Meanwhile, 'The Paradise' is generating strong advance demand. The film has reportedly sold 321K+ BookMyShow tickets in the last 24 hours, while current trade tracking also shows substantial advance sales across India. Hyderabad’s major theatres are witnessing a strong rush, with several shows at AMB Cinemas, AAA Cinemas, Prasads and INOX Ashoka reported as sold out or filling fast.

The Telangana government has also approved a special September 23 screening at Rs 500, while ticket prices have been increased for the initial theatrical run. The film’s regular worldwide release is scheduled for September 24.

Set in 1980s Secunderabad, 'The Paradise' follows Jadal, played by Nani, as he challenges discrimination faced by a marginalized community. The film reunites Nani and Odela after 'Dasara', while Raghav Juyal makes his Telugu debut as the antagonist.

Though the film promises intense action, its emotional core is also central to the story, particularly Jadal’s relationship with his mother, played by Sonali Kulkarni. Lavannya Sahukara plays the younger version of her character Sammakka.

The film is also taking its Telangana identity into theatres, with Mythri Vimal and Shiva Ganga theatres in Hyderabad serving Sarvapindi as part of a special menu.

With premieres beginning tonight, the immediate question is whether Nani will be able to watch 'The Paradise' with fans at RTC X Roads. The final call rests with the police.