‘Raaka’: Is Allu Arjun-Atlee’s Sci-Fi Actioner Set for a Two-Part Release Like ‘Dhurandhar’? Here’s What We Know
The makers of Allu Arjun and director Atlee’s upcoming big-budget spectacle, Raaka, are reportedly considering a two-part release strategy to accommodate its massive scale and complex dual-timeline narrative. However, a final decision regarding the same will only be taken after principle photography concludes this year.
Director Atlee and actor Allu Arjun's highly anticipated big-budget film, Raaka, is reportedly considering a two-part release strategy similar to the approach used for Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar. Driven by the project's expanding scale, dual timelines, and extensive visual effects demands, discussions are currently underway among the core creative team to determine whether to divide the story across two feature-length instalments. ‘AA25’: Did Basil Joseph CONFIRM His Collaboration With ‘Icon Star’ Allu Arjun in Cryptic Post?.
Allu Arjun's ‘Raaka’ to Have Two Parts?
According to a report, the narrative and scale of Raaka have grown too extensive to fit within a single feature without compromising character development or pacing. With a substantial portion of principal photography still remaining, fitting all intended footage into a standard three-hour runtime presents a significant logistical and creative challenge.
The team is currently evaluating how best to approach the release model. As stated in the Bollywood Hungama report, "However, the makers have not yet locked in the two-part concept, as Atlee is still exploring how the story might best be structured, and a definitive decision will be taken only after shooting wraps."
Allu Arjun and the film's producers have expressed full confidence in Atlee's vision, allowing the filmmaker the operational freedom needed to structure the project. To accommodate the shooting schedule, Allu Arjun has reportedly cleared his calendar exclusively for Raaka through December, after which he is slated to begin work on Lokesh Kanagaraj's upcoming superhero film in early 2027.
Industry observers note that this potential strategy reflects recent theatrical trends, such as director Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar, which was split into two parts prior to its theatrical debut and subsequently achieved strong commercial success.
More About ‘Raaka’
Raaka is structured around two distinct timelines, combining a tribal, Puranic-Vedic historical period with a contemporary setting. Allu Arjun is expected to portray multiple characters, with reports suggesting he could play up to three distinct roles across the different narrative eras.
The film features an ensemble cast that includes Deepika Padukone, Mrunal Thakur, Rashmika Mandanna, and Janhvi Kapoor. Reports indicate that Padukone's character is integrated into the mythological storyline, while Thakur leads the modern-day narrative segment. Unconfirmed industry rumours also suggest a potential cameo appearance by Shah Rukh Khan. Is ‘AA23’ Shelved? LCU Writer Breaks Silence on Allu Arjun-Lokesh Kanagaraj Project.
Backed by Kalanithi Maran under the Sun Pictures banner, Raaka is being produced as a high-concept, VFX-heavy cinematic project. Principal photography is slated for completion by December 2026, with the production house targeting a theatrical release in late 2027. Final release strategy and post-production timelines will be officially confirmed following the conclusion of filming.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 04, 2026 10:55 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).