Nani has responded to the mixed response to The Paradise, acknowledging the criticism surrounding the film while also thanking audiences for embracing it. Directed by Srikanth Odela, the action drama arrived in theatres on September 24 following a lengthy production period, and despite divided reactions from critics and social media users, the film has made a strong start at the box office.
According to the opening-day figures, The Paradise collected nearly Rs 75 crore gross worldwide, giving Nani his biggest opening for a film. The numbers are particularly notable given the conversation around the film following its release, with several critics finding fault with aspects of the execution and social media becoming a source of both criticism and trolling.
Nani, however, has chosen to take the response in his stride. In a social media post, the actor revealed that he had gone through the reactions and even found some of the trolling entertaining. He also said that the criticism had given him an opportunity to identify the film’s shortcomings.
“I have seen all your reactions and responses. I’ve received all your love and equally enjoyed your hilarious trolls. I’m heart warmed by the way the audience have owned the film and also learnt from the flaws that critics and reviewers have pointed out,” said Nani.
Nani says The Paradise belongs to the audience
The actor also acknowledged the considerable effort that went into making The Paradise, describing the film as a project that demanded a significant investment of time and energy from the team.
“Thank you for everything is all I can say. We have made #TheParadise with a lot of blood and sweat to give you a unique experience, and it’s all yours to celebrate or judge. With the excitement you had for the film and the affection you showed on me, I am filled with gratitude,” Nani said in his social media post.
I have seen all your reactions and responses. I’ve received all your love and equally enjoyed your hilarious trolls. I’m heartwarmed by the way audience have owned the film, and also learnt from the flaws that critics and reviewers have pointed out.
Thank you for everything is…
— Nani (@NameisNani) September 25, 2026
The response is particularly interesting considering the scale and ambition of The Paradise. The film marks Nani’s second collaboration with Srikanth Odela after Dasara, and reunites the actor and filmmaker for another intense drama. Kayadu Lohar plays the female lead, while Anirudh Ravichander has composed the music. Keerthy Suresh also makes a special appearance in the song ‘Yeshunagula’.
While the film has faced criticism for certain creative choices, its opening numbers indicate that the audience curiosity surrounding Nani and Odela’s collaboration translated into significant theatrical footfall.
A long wait finally ends for Nani
The Paradise has also been notable for the amount of time it took to reach theatres. The film represents one of the longest gaps between projects in Nani’s career, with the production going through multiple delays and previously announced release dates that ultimately did not materialise.
The wait finally ended on September 24, when The Paradise opened in theatres following premieres on Wednesday night. Given the prolonged anticipation, expectations around the film were naturally high, particularly after the success of Nani and Odela’s previous collaboration.
For now, The Paradise finds itself in an interesting position. Its opening numbers have provided a strong commercial start, even as the film continues to generate divided opinions. Nani’s response suggests that the actor is willing to engage with both sides of the conversation, taking the appreciation along with the criticism.
With the film now in theatres, its performance over the coming days will determine whether the strong opening can translate into a sustained theatrical run.
Also Read: The Paradise Box Office Collections: Nani’s Film Posts Rs 77 Crore on Day 1
