Nani has responded to the mixed-to-negative reaction to his latest Telugu action thriller The Paradise, saying he feels “indebted” to the Telugu audience for making their opinions heard. The actor addressed the response at a post-release event after the Srikanth Odela directorial hit theatres on September 24, 2026.
Nani’s comments came as the film faced criticism from viewers and reviewers, while also generating discussion around its themes, performances and creative choices. He expressed gratitude for an audience that continues to speak openly about Telugu cinema.
Nani Says He Is Indebted To Telugu Audience
Speaking at the post-release event, Nani said he would always feel indebted to the Telugu audience. He stressed that his gratitude was not limited to one film, but connected to the wider relationship between Telugu filmmakers and their audiences.
The actor said Telugu viewers have consistently fought to establish their voice and make their opinions heard. He added that the Telugu film industry would continue to shine as long as it had such passionate and supportive audiences.His statement comes after the film’s release prompted a wide range of reactions, including criticism of elements of its storytelling.
The Paradise Faces Mixed-To-Negative Reactions
The Paradise opened in theatres on September 24 and received mixed-to-negative reactions from critics. Some of the discussion around the film has focused on its treatment of its female character, who is portrayed as an adult-film actress. Director Srikanth Odela also addressed the casting journey behind the role at the same event.
He revealed that several actresses had rejected the heroine’s part before Kayadu Lohar accepted it. According to the filmmaker, Kayadu initially had doubts about the role but eventually agreed to take it on. Odela thanked the actress for accepting the challenging part, adding another layer to the conversation surrounding the film’s creative decisions.
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The Paradise Story And Nani’s Character
Set in 1980s India, The Paradise centres on the Savaari, an underprivileged tribal community denied identity, citizenship and land. The community lives in an isolated settlement controlled by the powerful feudal monarch Shikanja Malik.
Nani plays Jadal, a man focused on protecting his people while trying to survive within the oppressive system around them. As he witnesses the exploitation of his community and the denial of their basic rights, his journey gradually pushes him toward leadership. The story follows Jadal as he moves from simply surviving to challenging the authority controlling his people’s lives.
The Paradise Cast And Latest Update
Alongside Nani, The Paradise stars Kayadu Lohar, Mohan Babu, Sonali Kulkarni, Raghav Juyal, Sampoornesh Babu, Easwari Rao, Tanikella Bharani and Priyadarshi Pulikonda. Keerthy Suresh also appears in a cameo, while Anirudh Ravichander has composed the music.
Directed by Srikanth Odela, the film marks his second collaboration with Nani after Dasara. The Paradise was released worldwide on September 24, 2026, following an extensive promotional campaign that included multiple songs and character glimpses. With the film now in theatres, Nani’s response makes clear that he is paying close attention to the audience conversation surrounding the project, including the criticism that has emerged after release.
Final Take
Nani has described himself as “indebted” to the Telugu audience after The Paradise received mixed-to-negative reactions. His comments acknowledge the importance of viewers expressing their opinions, while Srikanth Odela’s remarks about the casting process offer further context to the discussions surrounding the film.
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