Kiran Abbavaram: I Don’t Get TN Theatres Like Pradeep Gets in Telugu States

Telugu audiences have long been known for their love of films, regardless of language. Non-Telugu heroes often get wide releases in Telugu states, while Telugu heroes historically struggle to get the same reception in other regions. Kiran Abbavaram, gearing up for his upcoming Diwali release K-RAMP, recently spoke about this issue in an interview.

Kiran’s last year Diwali release, KA, was a content-driven film that performed well at the box office. Many people wondered why it was not released in Tamil Nadu, in a dubbed version. Kiran said they tried their best to get screens for the Tamil version. “The harsh reality is we were told we won’t get screens in Tamil Nadu. Not even the original Telugu version got proper screens until the first week was over. After that, we only got 10 screens, despite audience demand,” he explained.

When asked why this happens, Kiran admitted he doesn’t fully understand. “Some say logistics, some say stardom. But I don’t get it. When young actors from other industries make good films, Telugu audiences support them. Recently, the Malayalam-to-Telugu dub Lokah ran houseful in Hyderabad. But when young Telugu actors attempt something fresh, other states don’t give screens.”

On the possibility of a Tamil release for K-RAMP, Kiran said, “I haven’t figured that out yet and need to check with my producer. For KA, it didn’t happen. Even if I wanted to, I know we wouldn’t get theatres. Tamil actor Pradeep Ranganathan’s film Dude is also releasing this Diwali in Telugu and getting huge screens. I can’t get the same love for a Telugu film in Tamil Nadu. We love Tamil stars and support their films. We hope for the same in return.”

Kiran also shared plans for his upcoming project, Chennai Love Story. “This film is set entirely in Chennai. We hope to plan a proper release in Tamil Nadu and reach the audience there,” he said.

K-RAMP stars Kiran Abbavaram and Yukti Thareja, with direction by Jains Nani. Music is by Chaitan Bharadwaj. Produced by Razesh Danda under Hasya Movies and Shiva Bommak under Ruudransh Celluloid, the film releases worldwide on Diwali, October 18.