The much-awaited collaboration between NTR and director Prashanth Neel, NTR 31, was initially announced with a grand release date of January 9, 2026, targeting the festive Sankranthi window. However, production delays cast doubt on whether the film would meet its original schedule. Now, the wait is over—shooting has finally begun, and NTR 31 is officially on track for its Sankranthi 2026 release. This means an epic showdown at the box office, as Megastar Chiranjeevi is also eyeing the same festival for his next film with Anil Ravipudi.
Chiranjeevi and Anil Ravipudi’s Film Locked for Sankranthi
Following the blockbuster success of Sankranthiki Vasthunam, Chiranjeevi has teamed up with Anil Ravipudi once again for another mass entertainer. Though industry buzz suggested that NTR’s film might miss the Sankranthi slot due to delays, the team has now locked its schedule. The movie officially began shooting on February 20 at Ramoji Film City, featuring a massive cast of junior artists. Meanwhile, NTR is set to join the NTR 31 shoot in March.
NTR 31 Progressing Without Delays
Unlike earlier concerns, Prashanth Neel is ensuring that NTR 31 follows a tight and well-planned schedule. Known for executing projects swiftly, Neel has strategized back-to-back shooting schedules with no significant breaks. The plan is to wrap up filming within 7–8 months, allowing ample time for an extensive post-production phase. Given this meticulous planning, there’s no possibility of a postponement—the film is firmly set for Sankranthi 2026.
A Mega Box Office Battle Awaits
With both NTR 31 and Chiranjeevi’s untitled film locked for Sankranthi 2026, an intense box office clash is inevitable. While no other major releases are expected to challenge these two titans, 1–2 medium-budget films may join the festival lineup.
As Sankranthi has traditionally been a golden period for Telugu cinema, fans can expect a high-stakes battle between two of Tollywood’s biggest stars. Will NTR’s high-octane action spectacle overpower Chiranjeevi’s mass entertainer? The stage is set, and the countdown has begun!