Jr NTR warmly welcomes Hrithik Roshan to Telugu cinema with War 2: ‘Every fan of mine will take care of you'

The lead stars of War 2, Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, joined director Ayan Mukerji and producer Naga Vamsi at a grand pre-release event in Hyderabad on Sunday. Naga Vamsi is backing the Telugu version of the highly anticipated action thriller.

On stage, both Jr NTR and Naga Vamsi stressed that War 2 should not be seen as Jr NTR’s foray into Hindi cinema, but rather as Hrithik’s much-awaited debut in Telugu. In a video from the event, Jr NTR looked at Roshan said, “This is not a movie, as everybody is saying, of NTR going into Hindi cinema. But this is equally Hrithik sir coming into Telugu cinema.” The comment drew cheers from the crowd, as Roshan responded with a playful punch in the air.

Jr NTR went on to promise a warm welcome for his co-star: “Everybody, each and every fan of mine who is here, everybody who hasn't been here will take you to their hearts, will take care of you sir. This is my promise. They will keep you in their hearts. Your responsibility is ours. Thank you, sir, all the sweetness, greatness and kindness.”

Roshan’s simple response—“Wow”—drew applause.

In another clip from the event, Jr NTR reflected on his roots and the evolving landscape of Indian cinema: “I come from South India, and thanks to SS Rajamouli for erasing many boundaries between South and North, which are just films. But every South Indian has a doubt: ‘Kya accept karenge yeh log (Will these people accept)?’ Thank you for accepting me with wide and open arms, and for that beautiful hug you gave me on the first day.”

Directed by Ayan Mukerji, War 2 sees Hrithik Roshan return as Major Kabir, this time facing off against a formidable new adversary, Vikram, played by Jr NTR. Joining them is Kiara Advani, portraying both Kabir’s love interest and a fellow soldier. The film is slated for release on August 14 in Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil.