While nothing has been officially confirmed, discussions are reportedly underway
If sources are to be believed, young actor Akhil Akkineni may soon be seen matching dance steps with Bollywood actress Ananya Panday in his upcoming film Lenin. While nothing has been officially confirmed, discussions are reportedly underway.
“It is true that talks with Ananya Panday’s team are going on, but nothing has been finalised yet,” says a source close to the development. The source adds that the foot-tapping special song is expected to be one of the major highlights of the faction-based action drama.
Ananya Panday was earlier seen in the Telugu film Liger opposite Vijay Deverakonda, which failed to make an impact at the box office. However, the source believes that a special number in Lenin could offer her better visibility in Tollywood. “A catchy song in a big Telugu film can give her stronger leverage this time,” the source notes.
Lenin is an upcoming Telugu action drama starring Akhil Akkineni and directed by Murali Kishore Abburu. The film is being produced by Nagarjuna Akkineni and Naga Vamsi. Set against the backdrop of honour killings in the Rayalaseema region, the film features Bhagyashri Borse as the female lead and is targeting a Summer 2026 release.
“Akhil will be seen in a very rugged and intense role. His romantic portions with Bhagyashri Borse are expected to add an emotional layer to this hard-hitting action film,” the source adds.
In recent years, several Bollywood actresses such as Malaika Arora, Nora Fatehi and Pooja Hegde have featured in special songs in Telugu big-ticket films. Industry insiders point out that such appearances have become more of a necessity than a choice. “Special songs featuring popular actresses are now seen as a commercial tool to widen a film’s reach,” the source concludes.
