Pawan Kalyan is not merely a Telugu cinema superstar. With his powerful presence on screen and strong speeches, he has also become an influential political figure, serving as the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh at present. After his party’s strong performance in the 2024 elections, speculation has intensified about whether he would step away from acting just like Tamil icon Thalapathy Vijay, who recently quit cinema to enter politics full-time.
The repeated delays in Pawan Kalyan’s films, especially Hari Hara Veera Mallu, They Call Him OG, and Ustaad Bhagat Singh, added fuel to these rumors. However, the actor has finally broken his silence, and his response paints a clearer picture of what lies ahead.
Addressing the Rumors
At the pre-release event of Hari Hara Veera Mallu, Pawan Kalyan was directly asked whether he would continue acting. His response was thoughtful and straightforward.
“Yes, cinema will always be a part of my life. But that doesn’t mean I have to keep acting. Very soon, I’ll start producing movies under my own banner, PK Creative Works,” he said.
This is an interesting comment that implies he won’t be acting as frequently in the future but is not severing his connection with the film business. Rather, he’s gearing up to transition into a producing role, remaining a part of telling stories but from another perspective.
Acting Is His Only Income
In a separate media interview, Pawan elaborated further on his relationship with cinema and finances. “As long as I need money, I’ll continue to act in movies, that too without compromising on my administrative and political job,” he said.
He also shared that he has never started any other business. “I never amassed wealth.” I have never ventured into any business, including film production. My sole source of income is cinema. Since I’ve made a commitment to films, I must now fulfill it with sincerity.”
This honest admission explains why he intends to finish the projects he has already signed, even as his political responsibilities increase.
The Long-Awaited Hari Hara Veera Mallu
Among his most talked-about projects is Hari Hara Veera Mallu, a historical action drama that has been delayed multiple times due to COVID-19, creative changes, and his limited availability. Pawan acknowledged these issues during the press event.
“Especially, HHVM underwent turmoil. He shared that the film endured two waves of COVID and a period of creative disruption. After his attention shifted to politics, he was unable to dedicate time to the shoot. However, he praised producer A.M. Rathnam for his unwavering efforts in completing the project.
The cast includes Bobby Deol, Nidhhi Agerwal, Nargis Fakhri, Nora Fatehi, Sathyaraj, and Vikramjeet Virk in prominent roles.
It is set to release on July 24, 2025, with Prime Video acquiring the post-theatrical streaming rights.
Upcoming Projects
Despite his busy political life, Pawan Kalyan has three such big projects pending:
• Hari Hara Veera Mallu—release on July 24, 2025
• They Call Him OG—out later this year
• Ustaad Bhagat Singh—shooting is likely to resume shortly.
He assured his producers and fans that he will keep these movie commitments. Although he may not take up new assignments energetically, his ongoing projects will be finished professionally.
Balancing Cinema and Politics
Pawan’s words were those of a man who was both philosophical and practical. Influenced by philosophers such as Henry David Thoreau and Indian yogis, he averred, “You do something selflessly and work for the people… that’s what I thought,” in terms of his political strategy.
Meanwhile, he does recognize that financial accountability is important. Without business or other sources of income, he has no choice but to rely on acting. This double angle motivates him to harmonize his responsibilities in governance and film without diminishing either.
So, is Pawan Kalyan resigning from films like Thalapathy Vijay? No, at least not altogether. Even if he acts in fewer films, he is not leaving the industry. Instead, he is redefining his role. With his new production company, PK Creative Works, he wants to remain engaged with the movies, but not necessarily as the hero every time.
His transformation into a producer from an actor is a considered change, not a departure. It enables him to continue to make a contribution to the profession that he is devoted to while putting first his political dream for Andhra Pradesh.
Final Thoughts
Pawan Kalyan is not just juggling two careers; he’s rewriting the book on how to do both with purpose and integrity. Rather than making a splashy exit, he’s going the pragmatist’s way with passion mixed with duty. Fans can expect fewer on-screen roles but more behind-the-scenes involvement.
The Power Star may be directing fewer movies, but he is not abandoning cinema. With commitment to his state and his art, Pawan Kalyan’s journey will only go on on a path that is loyal to the man he has grown to be.