Atlee A6, which was initially set to feature Bollywood superstar Salman Khan in a grand period reincarnation drama, has hit a major financial roadblock. The film, which was originally planned with a budget of ₹300 crore, has now ballooned to an estimated ₹500 crore due to its large-scale action sequences and high production value. This budget escalation has led to hesitation from the primary producer, Sun Pictures, who has now expressed reluctance in funding the project with Salman Khan in the lead.
Atlee in Talks with Jio Studios
Initially, Sun Pictures was backing A6, but with mounting budget concerns, they have officially stated that they are not interested in funding the film with Salman Khan as the lead. Given the massive scale and financial requirements, Sun Pictures has decided to step away from the project, creating uncertainty regarding its production.
With Sun Pictures backing out, Atlee has approached Jio Studios to finance the film. However, despite ongoing discussions, no concrete deal has been finalized yet. Jio Studios has shown interest in bankrolling A6, but negotiations regarding the financial feasibility and commercial prospects of the film are still underway. The uncertainty surrounding the funding has raised questions about whether Salman Khan will remain in the lead or if Atlee will look for a new actor to spearhead the project.
Allu Arjun Back in the Picture?
In a surprising turn of events, sources reveal that Atlee has reignited discussions with Allu Arjun, who was reportedly his first choice for A6 when the project was in its early stages. If Allu Arjun agrees to take on the lead role, there is a strong possibility that Allu Aravind, his father and the head of Geetha Arts, may step in to back the project financially. This move could shift the film from Bollywood to a Pan-India Telugu production, aligning more closely with the South Indian film industry’s grand period dramas.
Salman Khan’s Exit a Possibility?
The uncertainty around financing means Salman Khan’s involvement in A6 is no longer guaranteed. While Salman was initially enthusiastic about collaborating with Atlee on this mega project, the financial struggles may lead him to step away. Salman has been keen on working on big-scale films post the success of Tiger 3, but with A6 facing delays and hurdles, he might explore other projects in the meantime.
What’s Next for Atlee A6?
Atlee has reportedly completed the script for A6, which is set to be a high-octane period drama with reincarnation elements. The filmmaker is determined to bring his vision to life, but the final decision regarding the lead actor and the production house backing the film remains uncertain.
If Allu Arjun gives the nod, A6 might transition into a Telugu-led project with a Pan-India appeal, shifting its market strategy significantly. If Jio Studios finalizes the deal and Salman remains attached, the film could still proceed as a Bollywood mega-production.
At this point, the fate of A6 hinges on the outcome of Atlee’s negotiations with both Jio Studios and Allu Arjun. The industry is keenly watching to see if Salman Khan stays on board or if Allu Arjun steps in to take the lead.
