The main reason for the conflict in the sequel, Akhanda 2, revolves around the character of Janani. In the original film, Akhanda (2021), Aghora promises Janani he will return if she’s in danger. Therefore, for such an important role, the makers of Akhanda 2 considered casting Sitara Ghattamaneni, Mahesh Babu’s daughter.
The news that Mahesh Babu’s daughter, Sitara Ghattamaneni, was the first choice for the role of Balakrishna’s daughter Janani in Akhanda 2 is currently going viral on social media. But the makers’ idea did not work out, and later, they also tried to bring daughters of Tamil actor Suriya and actress Laya, but eventually, it went to Bollywood actress Harshaali Malhotra.
Sitara missing the Janani character is good only because she is the daughter of Mahesh Babu; the fans and audiences always want her to debut with a great role and a successful film.
While Janani’s character is crucial to Akhanda 2, it unfortunately lacks performance scope. The characterization also seems exaggerated, portraying a 17-year-old as a top DRDO scientist with an IQ of 226 who even discovers a vaccine for a deadly virus. These aspects didn’t resonate well with the audience.