Mumbai: Harshaali Malhotra, best known for her adorable and heartfelt performance as little Munni in the 2015 blockbuster Bajrangi Bhaijaan starring Salman Khan, is officially making her return to the big screen nearly a decade later. The child actor who has warmed the hearts of the entire India is embarking on a new bold step in her career. Harshaali is not just revising her history, but she is redefining herself as a grown-up and self-confident actor, who is willing to challenge herself and explore new movie spheres.
Her comeback was confirmed earlier this year, in an emotional post on Instagram, she told fans that she was grateful. Harshaali Malhotra wrote that Munni was not just a role but a feeling, a heartbeat, a memory she could carry with her. Now, she says she has grown, learned, and is ready to embrace her fans back with open arms.
Harshaali Malhotra’s Telugu Debut in Akhanda 2
Harshaali’s comeback comes with a major twist, she’s entering the South cinema with Akhanda 2: Thaandavam, marking her Telugu film debut. She is cast as Janani, a role that promises emotional depth and significance within the story.
Akhanda 2 is a high-voltage fantasy action drama directed by Boyapati Sreenu and starring veteran Telugu superstar Nandamuri Balakrishna. The film is produced under the 14 Reels Plus banner by Ram Achanta, Gopi Achanta, and Ishan Saksena, and presented by M. Tejaswini Nandamuri.
Music for the film is composed by Thaman S., and the cinematography is by C. Ramprasad and Santoshh D. Detake. The film’s teaser hints at spiritual and mythic undercurrents, showing Balakrishna in a fierce, divine avatar.
Originally slated for a Dussehra release, the makers have now confirmed 5 December 2025 as the new release date for Akhanda 2.
Why This Comeback Matters
The role of Harshaali Malhotra comes as a reunion with the screen, and with acting identity. The fact that she is a child star who has grown up to become a big-budget Telugu actress is a sign of bravery and determination. No longer is she simply referred to as Munni, but is burdened with the expectation of an emerging actress capable of performing mature roles.
The fact that she chose to release a mass-action performer such as Akhanda 2 is as well an indication of her readiness to challenge herself. Working with a powerhouse like Balakrishna and under Boyapati Sreenu known for his high-energy, larger-than-life storytelling could give her the perfect platform to launch her second innings.
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