The recent demolition of the N-Convention Centre, owned by Tollywood star Akkineni Nagarjuna, by the Revanth Reddy-led Telangana government, has sparked significant controversy in both political and film circles. This bold move marks a departure from the traditionally cordial relationship between political leaders and the Tollywood industry.

Since Revanth Reddy assumed office in December 2023, his relationship with the film industry, which previously enjoyed strong support from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government, has been notably strained. Nagarjuna was known to be close to BRS leaders, including K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) and his son K T Rama Rao, as well as former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy.

Despite Nagarjuna’s efforts to maintain good relations with the new government, including a courtesy visit to Revanth Reddy, tensions remained. The N-Convention Centre, which was alleged to be constructed illegally on encroached land, became a focal point. Revanth Reddy, who had previously raised concerns about the center during the BRS regime, followed through with his campaign promise by ordering its demolition.

Nagarjuna’s attempts to secure a stay from the High Court were unsuccessful, and the demolition proceeded under the direction of the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA), led by IPS officer A V Ranganath. Analysts suggest that Revanth Reddy’s actions are intended to distinguish his leadership from that of his predecessor, KCR, and to assert his authority over Tollywood, signaling that he would not be swayed by celebrity influence.