Mahesh Babu's blockbuster film Pokiri was set for a grand re-release in May, but it's been stopped due to Puri Jagannadh's financial issues. The film, released in 2006, was a significant milestone in Mahesh Babu and Puri Jagannadh's collaboration, and its re-release was highly anticipated.
Reportedly, Puri Jagannadh still owes money to distributors who lost money on Liger, and he had promised to pay them back after Double iSmart, which also flopped. A team led by distributor Suniel Narang has decided to block the release of any movie associated with Puri Jagannadh until they get their money.
The cancellation of Pokiri's re-release is a disappointment for fans, especially after the film's special shows in 2022 received a sensational response. Another movie of Mahesh Babu, Athidi, is taking its place. Pokiri's legacy in Tollywood remains unchanged, with the film still remembered as an all-time industry hit.
The distributors' decision reflects the ongoing challenges filmmakers face when projects underperform at the box office. This raises concerns about Puri Jagannadh's upcoming project Slumdog with Vijay Sethupathi which has completed its shoot and was announced for a summer release. Fans knowing potential of their favourite director, awaiting Puri's strong comeback and deliver a blockbuster.