Pawan Kalyan

Pawan Kalyan was born as Konidela Kalyan Kumar{{Refn|{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YFTACgZqzY&t=284s |title=Rudraveena Telugu Full Length HD Movie |publisher=Tollywood Box Office |time=4:44 |via=YouTube |access-date=13 October 2024 |archive-date=3 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203174811/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YFTACgZqzY&t=284s |url-status=live }}}} on 2 September 1971{{Refn|{{Cite web|last=K.|first=Janani|date=2 September 2021|title=Pawan Kalyan turns 50. Allu Arjun to Rakul Preet, celebs wish him on his birthday|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/pawan-kalyan-turns-50-allu-arjun-to-rakul-preet-celebs-wish-him-on-his-birthday-1848246-2021-09-02|website=India Today|access-date=2 September 2021|archive-date=2 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902074513/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/pawan-kalyan-turns-50-allu-arjun-to-rakul-preet-celebs-wish-him-on-his-birthday-1848246-2021-09-02|url-status=live}}{{cite news|date=2 September 2021|title='Bheemla Nayak' title song for Pawan Kalyan's birthday|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/bheemla-nayak-title-song-for-pawan-kalyans-birthday/article36248035.ece|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=29 September 2021|access-date=2 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210929123933/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/bheemla-nayak-title-song-for-pawan-kalyans-birthday/article36248035.ece|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=2 September 2021|title=Happy Birthday Pawan Kalyan: Chiranjeevi, Ravi Teja, Allu Arjun and others wish Bheemla Nayak actor|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/happy-birthday-pawan-kalyan-chiranjeevi-ravi-teja-allu-arjun-and-others-wish-bheemla-nayak-actor-7484084/|website=The Indian Express|access-date=2 October 2021|archive-date=29 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210929123936/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/happy-birthday-pawan-kalyan-chiranjeevi-ravi-teja-allu-arjun-and-others-wish-bheemla-nayak-actor-7484084/|url-status=live}}|name=born}} in a Telugu family to Konidela Venkata Rao and Anjana Devi in Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh.{{cite news|date=25 December 2007|title=Leaders console Chiranjeevi|work=The Hindu|location=Chennai, India|url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/25/stories/2007122557400400.htm|url-status=dead|access-date=27 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120607160148/http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/25/stories/2007122557400400.htm|archive-date=7 June 2012}}{{cite web|date=19 March 2018|title=Pawan Kalyan for end to caste culture|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2018-03-18/Pawan-Kalyan-for-end-to-caste-culture/367397|website=The Hans India|access-date=2 September 2021|archive-date=2 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902074514/https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2018-03-18/Pawan-Kalyan-for-end-to-caste-culture/367397|url-status=live}} Venkata Rao worked as an excise police constable and was transferred on a regular basis.

Kalyan was educated at the St. Joseph's High School in Nellore and later in Madras (now Chennai).{{cite news |date=5 June 2024 |title=Pawan Kalyan's Education Qualification, Leader Who Secured a Historic Win After 10 Years |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/web-stories/india/pawan-kalyans-education-qualification-leader-who-secured-a-historic-win-after-10-years/photostory/110741464.cms |work=Times Now |archive-date=6 June 2024 |access-date=6 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240606124132/https://www.timesnownews.com/web-stories/india/pawan-kalyans-education-qualification-leader-who-secured-a-historic-win-after-10-years/photostory/110741464.cms |url-status=live }} In 1997, he was awarded the title "Pawan" by the Isshin-ryū Karate Association after a public martial arts demonstration. He also holds a black belt in Karate.{{cite news |url=http://forbesindia.com/celebprofile/pawan-kalyan/52 |title=Pawan Kalyan – Forbes India Magazine |date=31 October 2013 |work=Forbes |access-date=20 July 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140924062405/http://forbesindia.com/celebprofile/pawan-kalyan/52 |archive-date=24 September 2014}}

Kalyan made his acting debut in 1996 with Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi directed by E. V. V. Satyanarayana.{{Cite web |date=1 September 2018 |title=Birthday Special: Power Star Pawan Kalyan! How the actor got his big break and became successful |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/photo-features/birthday-special-power-star-pawan-kalyan-how-the-actor-got-his-big-break-and-became-successful/photostory/65637154.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116005707/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/photo-features/birthday-special-power-star-pawan-kalyan-how-the-actor-got-his-big-break-and-became-successful/photostory/65637154.cms |archive-date=16 November 2021 |access-date=16 November 2021 |website=The Times of India}} It was produced by Allu Aravind under Geeta Arts Banner, and co-starred Supriya Yarlagadda, granddaughter of Akkineni Nageswara Rao. The film employed a unique marketing campaign prior to its release. Initially, posters featuring Kalyan were released with the question, "Who is this guy?". Later, before the film's release, posters declaring "This is our Kalyan" further heightened audience interest.{{Cite web |date=2021-10-11 |title=Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi 25 Years: 'అక్కడ అమ్మాయి ఇక్కడ అబ్బాయి' సినిమా 25 ఏళ్ళు పూర్తి |url=https://telugu.news18.com/photogallery/movies/power-star-pawan-kalyan-debut-movie-akkada-ammayi-ikkada-abbayi-completed-25-years-and-here-behind-story-pk-1055070.html |access-date=2024-08-10 |website=News18 తెలుగు |language=te |archive-date=10 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240810203152/https://telugu.news18.com/photogallery/movies/power-star-pawan-kalyan-debut-movie-akkada-ammayi-ikkada-abbayi-completed-25-years-and-here-behind-story-pk-1055070.html |url-status=live }} Released in October 1996, the film was a moderate success at the box-office. Kalyan’s performance and martial arts skills received significant attention.{{Cite web |date=2021-10-11 |title=పాతికేళ్ళ 'అక్కడ అమ్మాయి- ఇక్కడ అబ్బాయి' |url=https://ntvtelugu.com/movie-news/akkada-ammayi-ikkada-abbayi-completes-25-years-66831.html |access-date=2024-08-10 |website=NTV |language=te-IN |archive-date=10 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240810203154/https://ntvtelugu.com/movie-news/akkada-ammayi-ikkada-abbayi-completes-25-years-66831.html |url-status=live }}

His second film Gokulamlo Seeta (1997), a drama film released the following year.{{Cite web |title=ప‌వ‌న్ క‌ళ్యాణ్‌ను ఫ‌స్ట్ టైం ప‌వ‌ర్ స్టార్ అని ఎవ‌రు పిలిచారో తెలుసా ! [Do you know who called Pawan Kalyan Power Star first !] |url=https://www.ntnews.com/cinema/posani-krishna-murali-who-called-pawan-kalyan-as-power-star-273657/ |work=Namasthe Telangana |date=27 October 2021 |language=te |access-date=3 August 2024 |archive-date=6 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241206105158/https://www.ntnews.com/cinema/posani-krishna-murali-who-called-pawan-kalyan-as-power-star-273657 |url-status=live }} It was directed by Muthyala Subbaiah and starred Kalyan alongside Raasi and Harish. In the film, Kalyan plays a spoiled rich youth who transforms his reckless ways and fights against societal and familial opposition to win his love. Gokulamlo Seeta was the first film where Kalyan was credited as 'Pawan Kalyan' after he was awarded the title "Pawan" in March 1997.{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtg1RbZDpUk&t=20s |title=Gokulamlo Seetha Full Length Movie {{!}}{{!}} Pawan Kalyan, Raasi |date=2017-02-22 |time=0:20 |access-date=2024-08-03 |via=YouTube |archive-date=3 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240803120104/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtg1RbZDpUk&t=20s |url-status=live }} It was a commercial success.{{Cite web |author=Vijayalaxmi |date=15 May 2003 |title=Johnny sinks, but Pawan Kalyan remains afloat |url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/may/17pawan.htm |work=Rediff |access-date=3 August 2024 |archive-date=29 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429044728/https://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/may/17pawan.htm |url-status=live }}

Kalyan's third film was Suswagatham (1998) directed by Bhimaneni Srinivasa Rao and produced by R. B. Choudary under the Super Good Films banner. It starred Kalyan and Devayani (in her Telugu debut), with music composed by S. A. Rajkumar. Kalyan was first credited with the title Power Star in this film.{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwdC7TGACSk&t=41s |title=Suswagatham Full Length Telugu movie {{!}}{{!}} Pawan Kalyan, Devayani |date=2013-11-19 |access-date=2024-08-03 |via=YouTube |archive-date=3 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240803120959/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwdC7TGACSk&t=41s |url-status=live }} In the film, Kalyan played a young man who loses everything due to his blind love for a girl. His performance in the film was critically acclaimed. Suswagatham sowed the seeds for Kalyan's rise to stardom. The film became a super hit at the box office.

Kalyan's next film was Tholi Prema (1998), directed by A. Karunakaran and co-starring Keerthi Reddy with music by Deva. Karunakaran saw Pawan Kalyan's photo on a Telugu film magazine cover in Chennai and thought he was perfect for the lead in his romantic film. After sharing the script with Kalyan, Kalyan introduced him to producer G. V. G. Raju, who had worked with him on Gokulamlo Seeta.{{Cite web |author=M. L. Narasimham |date=23 October 1998 |title=Evolving a style of his own |url=https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GPoKNKNXgAAUVJV?format=jpg&name=large |access-date=2024-07-28 |website=The Hindu |via=Ghostarchive |archive-date=28 July 2024 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20240728130717/https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GPoKNKNXgAAUVJV?format=jpg&name=large |url-status=bot: unknown }} The film was a major hit, launching Kalyan into stardom and becoming a classic romantic film in Telugu cinema.{{Cite web |author=Hemanth Kumar CR |date=2018-02-08 |title=Tholi Prema: Pawan Kalyan-Keerthi Reddy's romantic classic continues to inspire filmmakers even after 20 years |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/tholi-prema-pawan-kalyan-keerthi-reddys-romantic-classic-continues-to-inspire-filmmakers-even-after-20-years-4341755.html |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=Firstpost |language=en-us |archive-date=31 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200131044637/https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/tholi-prema-pawan-kalyan-keerthi-reddys-romantic-classic-continues-to-inspire-filmmakers-even-after-20-years-4341755.html |url-status=live }} It won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu, six state Nandi Awards, and was featured at the 30th International Film Festival of India. The film was remade in Kannada as Preethsu Thappenilla (2000) and in Hindi as Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai (2001).{{Cite web |date=May 31, 2016 |title=I haven't yet done a dance film: Tusshar Kapoor |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/interview-i-haven-t-yet-done-a-dance-film-tusshar-kapoor-2218135 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200318081648/https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/interview-i-haven-t-yet-done-a-dance-film-tusshar-kapoor-2218135 |archive-date=18 March 2020 |access-date=18 March 2020 |website=DNA India |language=en}}

In November 1998, there were reports of Kalyan collaborating with Malayalam director Fazil for a project to be produced by G. V. G. Raju, who had earlier produced Tholi Prema.{{Cite web |date=13 November 1998 |title=ఫాజిల్ దర్శకత్వంలో పవన్ కళ్యాణ్? |url=http://www.zaminryot.com/pdf/1998/Nov/13-Nov-1998.pdf |website=Zameen Ryot |pages=9 |language=te |access-date=29 July 2024 |archive-date=20 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240720013027/https://zaminryot.com/pdf/1998/Nov/13-Nov-1998.pdf |url-status=live }} However, his next film turned out to be Thammudu, where he played the role of a kickboxer. Released in July 1999, Thammudu was written and directed by P. A. Arun Prasad.{{Cite news |date=15 July 2021 |title=Pawan Kalyan fans celebrate 22 years of 'Thammudu'; call it one of the most memorable films |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-kalyan-fans-celebrate-22-years-of-thammudu-call-it-one-of-the-most-memorable-films/articleshow/84433085.cms |access-date=2022-07-23 |website=The Times of India |language=en}} The film collected a distributor share of ₹9.25–9.46 crore, emerging as a blockbuster and generating a profit of over ₹4 crores for buyers.{{Cite web |date=2021-07-15 |title=పవన్ కళ్యాణ్ బ్లాక్ బస్టర్ తమ్ముడు సినిమాకు 22 ఏళ్లు |url=https://www.ntnews.com/cinema/power-star-pawan-kalyan-thammudu-movie-completed-22-years-in-tollywood-145150 |access-date=2024-08-11 |website=Namasthe Telangana |language=te}} It became the second-highest-grossing film in the Nizam region after Choodalani Vundi (1998). Kalyan's performance as a youth competing in a kickboxing contest was widely acclaimed. The film's success led to it being remade in Tamil as Badri (2001), in Kannada as Yuvaraja (2001) and in Bengali as Champion (2003).{{Cite news |date=2024-06-09 |title=Pawan Kalyan's 1999 hit 'Thammudu' to re-release in theaters: Report |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-kalyans-1999-hit-thammudu-to-re-release-in-theaters-report/articleshow/110826118.cms |access-date=2024-08-10 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

Next, Kalyan acted in Puri Jagannadh's first directorial venture, Badri (2000). It starred debutants Ameesha Patel and Renu Desai (whom he would later marry). It was produced by T. Trivikrama Rao and the music was composed by Ramana Gogula.{{cite web |date=20 April 2000 |title=Movie Review - Badri |url=http://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-badri.html |access-date=4 March 2021 |work=Idlebrain.com |archive-date=30 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530210744/http://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-badri.html |url-status=live }} The film became a blockbuster at the box office. Badri played a crucial role in expanding Pawan Kalyan's appeal from class audiences, who admired his earlier hits to a broader mass audience.{{Cite web |date=20 April 2023 |title=23YrsOfBlockBusterBadri: పవన్ కల్యాణ్ 'బద్రి' గురించి ఈ విషయం తెలుసా? |url=https://www.chitrajyothy.com/2023/viral/power-star-pawan-kalyan-badri-movie-completes-23-years-kbk-44250.html |website=Chitrajyothy |publisher=Andhra Jyothi |language=te |access-date=11 August 2024 |archive-date=11 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240811081454/https://www.chitrajyothy.com/2023/viral/power-star-pawan-kalyan-badri-movie-completes-23-years-kbk-44250.html |url-status=live }} The intense scenes between Pawan Kalyan and Prakash Raj remain a significant highlight in Pawan's career. The film's dialogues and songs were huge hits with the youth. The line "Nuvvu Nanda aithe nenu Badri Badrinath" and songs like "Ye Chikitha" and "Bangala Kathamlo" continued to be popular even after two decades.{{Cite web |date=2023-04-20 |title=పవన్ కళ్యాణ్ బ్లాక్ బస్టర్‌ 'బద్రి'కి 23 యేళ్లు పూర్తి.. సాధించిన రికార్డులు ఇవే.. |url=https://telugu.news18.com/photogallery/movies/pawan-kalyan-blockbluster-badri-movie-completes-23-years-here-are-the-total-collections-ta-1746176.html |access-date=2024-08-10 |website=News18 తెలుగు |language=te |archive-date=10 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240810204945/https://telugu.news18.com/photogallery/movies/pawan-kalyan-blockbluster-badri-movie-completes-23-years-here-are-the-total-collections-ta-1746176.html |url-status=live }} Badri was later remade in Hindi as Shart: The Challenge (2004).{{Cite web |date=21 April 2020 |title=2 Decades of Blockbuster Badri: 5 facts about the film that unbelievably interesting |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/2-decades-of-blockbuster-badri-5-facts-about-the-film-that-unbelievably-interesting/photostory/75248675.cms |website=The Times of India |via= |access-date=10 August 2024 |archive-date=12 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240912030925/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/2-decades-of-blockbuster-badri-5-facts-about-the-film-that-unbelievably-interesting/photostory/75248675.cms |url-status=live }}

Kalyan's next film was Kushi (2001) co-starring Bhumika. It was directed by S. J. Surya and produced by A. M. Rathnam.{{Cite news |date=2020-04-27 |title=Pawan Kalyan's Kushi completes 19 years of release; trending big-time on social media |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-kalyans-kushi-completes-19-years-of-release-trending-big-time-on-social-media/articleshow/75401347.cms |access-date=2023-05-05 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=1 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211101002235/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-kalyans-kushi-completes-19-years-of-release-trending-big-time-on-social-media/articleshow/75401347.cms |url-status=live }} Mani Sharma provided the score and soundtrack. Kalyan also choreographed all the action sequences in the film. Initially begun in 1999 as a bilingual along with its Tamil version, also titled Kushi (2000), the Telugu version was delayed due to Kalyan's prior commitment to Badri.{{Refn|{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8KTDJrPmic&t=308s |title=Producer AM Ratnam Exclusive Interview {{!}} Kushi Teravenuka Kathalu |date=2022-12-28 |author=Rajesh Manne |language=te |time=5:08 to 6:26 |access-date=2024-07-20 |via=YouTube |archive-date=21 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240721123525/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8KTDJrPmic&t=308s |url-status=live }}{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8KTDJrPmic&t=453s |title=Producer AM Ratnam Exclusive Interview {{!}} Kushi Teravenuka Kathalu |date=2022-12-28 |author=Rajesh Manne |language=te |time=7:33 to 8:58 |access-date=2024-07-20 |via=YouTube |archive-date=7 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240907054431/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8KTDJrPmic&t=453s |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2001 |title=Ready for release - Kushi |url=https://www.idlebrain.com/movie/coming/kushi.html |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=Idlebrain.com |archive-date=7 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240907054403/https://www.idlebrain.com/movie/coming/kushi.html |url-status=live }}}} It was a blockbuster at the box office and went on to become the highest-grossing Telugu film ever at the time.{{Refn|{{Cite news |date=27 April 2020 |title=Pawan Kalyan's Kushi completes 19 years of release; trending big-time on social media |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-kalyans-kushi-completes-19-years-of-release-trending-big-time-on-social-media/articleshow/75401347.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211101002235/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-kalyans-kushi-completes-19-years-of-release-trending-big-time-on-social-media/articleshow/75401347.cms |archive-date=1 November 2021 |access-date=2021-11-01 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}{{Cite web |author=Vijayalaxmi |date=15 May 2003 |title=Johnny sinks, but Pawan Kalyan remains afloat |url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/may/17pawan.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429044728/https://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/may/17pawan.htm |archive-date=29 April 2021 |access-date=2021-04-29 |website=Rediff}}}} The film was critically acclaimed for its screenplay, music, cinematography and especially the performance of Pawan Kalyan.{{Cite web |date=2021-04-27 |title=Kushi : పవర్‌స్టార్ పవన్ కళ్యాణ్ కల్ట్ క్లాసికల్ 'ఖుషి' @ 20 |url=https://10tv.in/latest/pawan-kalyan-evergreen-blockbuster-kushi-completed-20-years-218363.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512203751/https://10tv.in/latest/pawan-kalyan-evergreen-blockbuster-kushi-completed-20-years-218363.html |archive-date=12 May 2021 |access-date=2021-05-12 |website=10TV |language=te}} Kushi was the culmination of a streak of six consecutive hits for Pawan Kalyan and his style, mannerisms and dialogues from the film were much imitated by the youth.

The four consecutive blockbuster hits—Tholi Prema, Thammudu, Badri, and Kushi—had a cult status among youth at the turn of the millennium.{{Refn|}} Pawan Kalyan became a youth icon, setting trends in action sequences, style, and fashion. These films gave him a massive fanbase, distinct from his elder brother Chiranjeevi's. In 2001, Kalyan became the first South Indian brand ambassador for Pepsi, while Chiranjeevi promoted Coca-Cola.{{cite news |date=18 April 2001 |title=Colas take war into Telugu film home |url=http://www.hindu.com/businessline/catalyst/2001/04/19/stories/1919a051.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140727094059/http://www.hindu.com/businessline/catalyst/2001/04/19/stories/1919a051.htm |archive-date=27 July 2014 |access-date=18 July 2014 |work=The Hindu}}{{Refn|{{Cite web |date=2023-05-13 |title=Did Pawan Kalyan Charge Over Rs 1 Crore In 2001 For Pepsi Ad? |url=https://www.news18.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/did-pawan-kalyan-charge-over-rs-1-crore-in-2001-for-pepsi-ad-7810597.html |access-date=2024-07-29 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=29 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240729192748/https://www.news18.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/did-pawan-kalyan-charge-over-rs-1-crore-in-2001-for-pepsi-ad-7810597.html |url-status=live }}}}

Kalyan's next film was Johnny (2003), which he wrote, directed, and starred in alongside Renu Desai.{{Cite web |date=2003-04-28 |title=Tedious fare |url=http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/mp/2003/04/28/stories/2003042801100400.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030730095640/http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/mp/2003/04/28/stories/2003042801100400.htm |archive-date=2003-07-30 |website=The Hindu}} Produced by Allu Aravind with music by Ramana Gogula, the martial arts film featured Kalyan as a coach who fights to fund his wife's cancer treatment.{{Cite web |title=Movie Review - Johnny |url=https://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-johnny.html |access-date=2024-07-28 |website=Idlebrain.com |archive-date=28 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240728154246/https://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-johnny.html |url-status=live }} Johnny had the highest theatrical distribution rights of {{Indian Rupee}}21 crore for a Telugu film at the time{{Cite web |author=Vijayalaxmi |date=23 April 2003 |title=Pawan Kalyan sets a record |url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/apr/23pawan.htm |access-date=2024-07-28 |website=Rediff.com |archive-date=28 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240728081239/https://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/apr/23pawan.htm |url-status=live }} and was released with over 250 prints worldwide.{{Cite news |date=2020-04-28 |title=Pawan Kalyan and Renu Desai's Johnny completes 17 Years today |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-kalyan-and-renu-desais-johnny-completes-17-years-today/photostory/75373720.cms |access-date=2024-07-28 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |quote=Its most significant accomplishment was being the first Telugu movie to be released with over 250 prints worldwide, including the United States. |archive-date=3 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203191507/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-kalyan-and-renu-desais-johnny-completes-17-years-today/photostory/75373720.cms |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2019-09-02 |title=Pawan Kalyan Birthday: As Actor Turns 48, Here are 5 of His Best Films |url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/pawan-kalyan-birthday-as-actor-turns-48-here-are-5-of-his-best-films-2293883.html |access-date=2024-07-28 |website=News18 |language=en |quote=Johnny became the first ever Telugu film to be released with over 250 prints worldwide including the United States. Johnny was screened at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI). |archive-date=28 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240728154244/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/pawan-kalyan-birthday-as-actor-turns-48-here-are-5-of-his-best-films-2293883.html |url-status=live }} Kalyan's clean-shaven look was a departure from his usual style which disappointed many fans.{{Cite news |date=2020-09-02 |title=From Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi to Vakeel Saab, decoding Pawan Kalyan's fashion choices and signature moustache |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/from-akkada-ammayi-ikkada-abbayi-to-vakeel-saab-decoding-pawan-kalyans-fashion-choices-and-signature-moustache/articleshow/77893589.cms |access-date=2024-08-11 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=11 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240811145756/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/from-akkada-ammayi-ikkada-abbayi-to-vakeel-saab-decoding-pawan-kalyans-fashion-choices-and-signature-moustache/articleshow/77893589.cms |url-status=live }} Despite being Pawan Kalyan's first flop after six consecutive hits, the film was praised for its stylish and grounded action choreography.{{Cite web |last=Padhi |first=Sandeep |date=2021-05-23 |title=The Action In Pawan Kalyan's Johnny |url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/readers-articles/johnny-telugu-movie-pawan-kalyan-the-action |access-date=2024-08-01 |website=Film Companion |language=en |archive-date=1 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240801193138/https://www.filmcompanion.in/readers-articles/johnny-telugu-movie-pawan-kalyan-the-action |url-status=live }} Kalyan's styling from the film became a trend, with Johnny T-shirts, bandanas, armbands, and caps becoming very popular.{{Cite news |date=26 May 2012 |title=Some 'power' dressing this! |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/some-power-dressing-this/articleshow/13485927.cms |access-date=2024-08-11 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}} It was also screened at the International Film Festival of India.

In 2004, his film Gudumba Shankar was released. The film was directed by Veera Shankar and produced by Kalyan's older brother Nagendra Babu under Anjana Productions banner.{{Cite web |date=2018-09-10 |title='Gudumba Shankar' completes 14 years: Take a look at the highlights of the Pawan Kalyan starrer |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/photo-features/gudumba-shankar-completes-14-years-take-a-look-at-the-highlights-of-the-pawan-kalyan-starrer/photostory/65755998.cms |access-date=2021-07-30 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=30 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730070015/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/photo-features/gudumba-shankar-completes-14-years-take-a-look-at-the-highlights-of-the-pawan-kalyan-starrer/photostory/65755998.cms |url-status=live }} Kalyan played the title role, wrote the screenplay and choreographed three songs. The action scenes were also conceived and choreographed by him. The film, starring Kalyan and Meera Jasmine, received mixed reviews and was an average performer at the box office. Kalyan's choreography of the realistic action scenes was praised. His unique style, including wearing double pants, grabbed attention at the time.

His next film Balu (2005) was A. Karunakaran's second directorial starring Kalyan, after Tholi Prema. This film was produced by C. Aswini Dutt under Vyjayanthi Movies banner.{{Cite web |date=6 January 2005 |title=Movie review - Balu ABCDEFG |url=http://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-balu.html |work=Idlebrain}} It co-starred Shriya, Neha Oberoi and Gulshan Grover. Balu was extensively filmed in Delhi and Agra, with a special set constructed near the Taj Mahal and another in Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad, at a cost of {{Indian Rupee}}90 lakh. Pawan Kalyan wore a unique pant in the film's flashback scenes, which he bought from Italy for about {{Indian Rupee}}2 lakh.{{Cite web |date=2023-09-02 |title=Pawan Kalyan : పవన్ కళ్యాణ్ తన స్టైలిష్ ప్యాంట్స్‌ను ఏ హీరోకి గిఫ్ట్‌గా ఇచ్చారో తెలుసా..? |url=https://tv9telugu.com/entertainment/tollywood/pawan-kalyan-gifted-sai-dharam-tej-different-style-pants-used-in-gudumba-shankar-and-balu-movies-1052872.html |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=TV9 Telugu |language=te |archive-date=11 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240811122235/https://tv9telugu.com/entertainment/tollywood/pawan-kalyan-gifted-sai-dharam-tej-different-style-pants-used-in-gudumba-shankar-and-balu-movies-1052872.html |url-status=live }} These pants later became a trend among the youth. Balu was the first Telugu film to have a release in South Africa and became an average grosser at the box office.{{Cite news |date=2005-07-22 |title=Boldly going where no Telugu movie has gone before! |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/hyderabad-times/boldly-going-where-no-telugu-movie-has-gone-before/articleshow/1180345.cms |access-date=2024-07-27 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=28 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240728111410/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/hyderabad-times/boldly-going-where-no-telugu-movie-has-gone-before/articleshow/1180345.cms |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=21 March 2005 |title=The gamble pays off |url=https://www.iol.co.za/entertainment/whats-on/the-gamble-pays-off-927625 |access-date=27 July 2024 |website=Independent Online |archive-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727085513/https://www.iol.co.za/entertainment/whats-on/the-gamble-pays-off-927625 |url-status=live }}

In May 2006, Bangaram, directed by Tamil filmmaker Dharani was released. It starred Kalyan in the title role and Meera Chopra, Sanusha, Ashutosh Rana, and Mukesh Rishi in supporting roles. Produced by A. M. Rathnam, who had earlier produced Kushi (2001), the story follows Bangaram, a reporter who dreams of working for the BBC. Notably, it was the first time in Kalyan's career that he did not have a female lead opposite him. The film received mixed to negative reviews, and Kalyan reportedly gave refunds to the film's distributors due to its underperformance.{{Cite web |date=3 May 2021 |title=15 years for Bangaram: For the first time in his career, Pawan Kalyan did not have a female lead starring opposite him |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/entertainment/regional/telugu/15-years-for-bangaram-for-the-first-time-in-his-career-pawan-kalyan-did-not-have-a-female-lead-starring-opposite-him/videoshow/82369969.cms |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=3 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203200133/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/entertainment/regional/telugu/15-years-for-bangaram-for-the-first-time-in-his-career-pawan-kalyan-did-not-have-a-female-lead-starring-opposite-him/videoshow/82369969.cms |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2023-07-26 |title=Panjaa To Bangaram, Pawan Kalyan Films That Flopped At The Box Office |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/panjaa-to-bangaram-pawan-kalyan-films-that-flopped-at-the-box-office-8432179.html |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=4 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241204025023/https://www.news18.com/movies/panjaa-to-bangaram-pawan-kalyan-films-that-flopped-at-the-box-office-8432179.html |url-status=live }}

In March 2006, Pawan Kalyan’s second directorial venture, Satyagrahi (tagline: Satyame Naa Ayudham; {{Translation|Truth is my weapon}}), featuring him in the role of a role of student union leader, was launched with a high-profile event at Annapurna Studios.{{cite web |date=25 March 2006 |title=Satyagrahi film launch – Pawan Kalyan |url=http://www.idlebrain.com/news/functions/muhurat-satyagrahi.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190106225004/http://www.idlebrain.com/news/functions/muhurat-satyagrahi.html |archive-date=6 January 2019 |access-date=10 December 2015 |website=Idlebrain.com}} At the event, Kalyan expressed frustration with societal problems and aimed to use Satyagrahi to highlight these issues in a commercially appealing format. Producer A. M. Rathnam announced that the film would be made in Telugu and Hindi, with a Bengali dub. Despite initial enthusiasm and notable collaborators like P. C. Sreeram and A. R. Rahman, the project was shelved. In October 2021, Kalyan revealed that the film, inspired by Jayaprakash Narayan's Emergency movement, was set aside to focus on real-life activism, finding it more fulfilling to address social issues directly rather than through cinema.{{Cite news |date=2021-10-11 |title=Pawan Kalyan recalls his shelved film Satyagrahi |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-kalyan-recalls-his-shelved-film-satyagrahi/articleshow/86940989.cms |access-date=2024-08-11 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=11 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240811200556/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-kalyan-recalls-his-shelved-film-satyagrahi/articleshow/86940989.cms |url-status=live }}

Later that year, he appeared in Annavaram, directed by Bhimaneni Srinivasa Rao, with Asin, and Sandhya were cast alongside him.{{Cite web |date=29 December 2006 |title=Annavaram - Movie Review |url=http://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-annavaram.html |website=Idlebrain.com |access-date=11 August 2024 |archive-date=28 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428115753/http://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-annavaram.html |url-status=live }} The film was produced under the Super Good Films banner and marked Kalyan's first role set in a rural background. Pawan Kalyan plays the title role of Annavaram, a blacksmith who, driven by his love for his sister, becomes a vigilante in Hyderabad to dismantle the city's criminal underworld. Released in December 2006, the film was an above-average grosser.{{Cite web |author=Sambi Reddy |date=2 September 2024 |title=ఇండస్ట్రీ హిట్స్ నుండి అట్టర్ ప్లాప్స్ వరకు, పవన్ కళ్యాణ్ కెరీర్ లో చేసిన 11 రీమేక్స్ వాటి రిజల్ట్స్! |url=https://telugu.asianetnews.com/gallery/entertainment/hero-pawan-kalyan-birth-day-special-11-remakes-and-results-ksr-sj6i0k#image4 |access-date=15 October 2024 |website=Asianet News Network |language=te |archive-date=18 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240918082310/https://telugu.asianetnews.com/gallery/entertainment/hero-pawan-kalyan-birth-day-special-11-remakes-and-results-ksr-sj6i0k#image4 |url-status=live }}

Kalyan's next film was Jalsa (2008), written and directed by Trivikram Srinivas. Jalsa marks the first collaboration between Pawan Kalyan and Trivikram, a partnership that later extended to multiple projects in the future. Mahesh Babu provided the voiceover for the film. In the film, Pawan Kalyan plays Sanjay Sahu, an aerobics instructor with a troubled past as a Naxalite. Kalyan's performance, especially his comic timing and signature dialogues, played a significant role in the film's success. Jalsa set multiple box office records on its opening day, including the highest first-day collection for a Telugu film and the highest for any South Indian film in a single state. It became the highest-grossing Telugu film of 2008{{Cite web |date=2020-04-02 |title=12 Years of Jalsa: 5 reasons why the Pawan Kalyan starrer was a hit |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/12-years-of-jalsa-5-reasons-why-the-pawan-kalyan-starrer-was-a-hit/photostory/74948425.cms |access-date=2020-08-12 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=26 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200426221412/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/12-years-of-jalsa-5-reasons-why-the-pawan-kalyan-starrer-was-a-hit/photostory/74948425.cms |url-status=live }} and was praised for its lead performances, music, humour, and witty dialogues. This marked Kalyan's first success after five consecutive underperforming films.

Pawan Kalyan's next film, Puli (2010), an action thriller, was written and directed by S. J. Surya and produced by Singanamala Ramesh Babu with a budget of {{Indian Rupee}}40 crore.{{cite news |date=9 September 2010 |title='Puli' re-edited to do the damage control! |url=http://andhravilas.com/movienews/162927/Puli-re-edited-to-do-the-damage-control.html |url-status=usurped |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707141302/http://andhravilas.com/movienews/162927/Puli-re-edited-to-do-the-damage-control.html |archivedate=7 July 2011 |accessdate=22 September 2010 |newspaper=Andhravilas.com |df=dmy}} Initially titled Komaram Puli, the film was renamed Puli on its second day of release due to objections from Komaram Sony Rao, the grandson of tribal legend Komaram Bheem, whose name had inspired the original title. The Nizam distribution rights were sold to Geetha Arts for {{Indian Rupee}}12 crore, a record-breaking sum at the time.[http://chithr.com/news/detail/1707/geeta-arts-bagged-kpuli-nizam-rights-for-12cr.html "Geeta Arts bagged K'Puli Nizam rights for 12Cr – Telugu Movie and Political News"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160123091626/http://chithr.com/news/detail/1707/geeta-arts-bagged-kpuli-nizam-rights-for-12cr.html|date=23 January 2016}}. chithr.com. 15 August 2009 Upon release, Puli was critically panned and ultimately became a box office disaster.{{Cite web |date=25 August 2012 |title=Pawan powers his way back |url=https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/pawan-powers-his-way-back/articleshow/21323029.cms |access-date=2024-10-13 |website=Bangalore Mirror |language=en |archive-date=4 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241204033328/https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/pawan-powers-his-way-back/articleshow/21323029.cms |url-status=live }}

In August 2010, an official announcement was made that Kalyan was going to play a role in a movie about Jesus Christ to be directed by Singeetam Srinivasa Rao.{{Cite news |last=Sherwood |first=Harriet |date=2010-08-31 |title=Pawan Kalyan to star in Bollywood film of Christ's life |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2010/aug/31/bollywood-jesus-christ-film-israel |access-date=2024-08-03 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=26 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170426063543/https://www.theguardian.com/film/2010/aug/31/bollywood-jesus-christ-film-israel |url-status=live }} With a production cost of $30 million, it was touted as the most expensive film to be ever made in Indian cinema.{{Cite web |date=6 September 2010 |title=The story of Jesus Christ gets Indian treatment |url=https://movies.rediff.com/slide-show/2010/sep/06/slide-show-1-south-first-look-indian-story-on-jesus-christ.htm |access-date=2024-08-03 |website=Rediff |language=en |archive-date=21 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230121073827/http://movies.rediff.com/slide-show/2010/sep/06/slide-show-1-south-first-look-indian-story-on-jesus-christ.htm |url-status=live }} The film was set to be shot in Israel and the Palestinian Territories with an all-Indian cast, primarily featuring children. It was reported that the producers spent time touring sites in Jerusalem and around the Sea of Galilee and have approached the Palestinian Authority about filming in Jericho and Bethlehem. Shooting for the film was said to begin in Jerusalem in October 2010 and the film was to be released in 2011. The film was said to include seven devotional songs. It was to be a 195-minute film, with versions in four languages, including English.

In 2011, Pawan Kalyan starred in Teen Maar, directed by Jayanth C. Paranjee with a screenplay by Trivikram Srinivas.{{Cite web |date=14 April 2011 |title=Review: Teenmaar is Pawan Kalyan's show |url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/report/review-teenmaar/20110414.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230604034701/https://www.rediff.com/movies/report/review-teenmaar/20110414.htm |archive-date=4 June 2023 |access-date=4 June 2023 |work=Rediff.com}} It is a remake of the Hindi film Love Aaj Kal (2009). Kalyan plays dual roles: Michael Velayudham, a carefree chef in Italy navigating modern relationships, and Arjun Palwai, whose traditional 1980s love story profoundly influences Michael's journey toward understanding the true value of love and commitment. The film was an average grosser at the box office.

Kalyan's next film was Vishnuvardhan's gangster drama Panjaa (2011).[https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/news-interviews/Vishnuvardhans-double-dhamaka/articleshow/7404551.cms Vishnuvardhan's double dhamaka – Times Of India] . The Times of India. (2 February 2011). Retrieved 6 December 2011. Apart from Kalyan, it starred Sarah-Jane Dias, Anjali Lavania, and Jackie Shroff. Kalyan showcased a new look for Panjaa, combining a well-trimmed beard with his moustache. In the film, Kalyan plays Jai, a loyal hitman for a powerful gangster, who is forced to go on the run after a mission goes wrong. Released in December 2011, Panjaa received mixed reviews from critics. It had a moderate reception from overseas audiences but struggled to make an impact at the domestic box office. Over time, it has been regarded as an underrated film in Telugu cinema.

File:The noted Telugu film actor Shri Pavan Kalyan addressing at the closing ceremony and award function of the 18th International Children’s Film Festival India, in Hyderabad on November 20, 2013 (cropped).jpg in Hyderabad on 20 November 2013]]In 2012, Pawan Kalyan starred in Gabbar Singh, directed by Harish Shankar. This film, a remake of the Hindi hit Dabangg (2010), made notable changes to the original screenplay and characters.{{Cite web |date=21 June 2012 |title=Dabangg or Gabbar Singh? I like Gabbar Singh more than Dabangg - Jeevi |url=https://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/gabbarsingh-dabangg.html |access-date=2024-07-27 |website=Idlebrain.com |archive-date=5 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241205191530/https://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/gabbarsingh-dabangg.html |url-status=live }} Kalyan played Venkataratnam Naidu, a police officer who takes on the alias Gabbar Singh to combat a local thug's corrupt political schemes. Gabbar Singh set new records for opening day, first weekend, and first week collections in Tollywood, grossing around ₹110 crore worldwide. It became the second-highest-grossing Telugu film at the time surpassing Dookudu (2011), and emerging as the highest-grossing Telugu film of the year.{{cite web |title=Gabbar singh highest grosser in south |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/gabbar-singh-highestgrosser/1/209129.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150312155348/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/gabbar-singh-highest-grosser/1/209129.html |archive-date=12 March 2015 |work=India Today |date=19 July 2012 |quote=According to the buzz, Gabbar Singh, which is a Telegu remake of Dabangg, has collected more than Rs 110 crore at the worldwide Box Office in 60 days.}} Kalyan's performance was acclaimed for its charisma and energy, blending mass appeal with comedy, earning him the Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu, the SIIMA Award for Best Actor – Telugu, a CineMAA Award, among other accolades.

Later in 2012, Kalyan appeared in Cameraman Gangatho Rambabu, a political action film directed by Puri Jagannadh, marking their second collaboration after 12 years.{{Cite web |date=24 October 2012 |title='Cameraman Ganga Tho Rambabu' collects Rs 52 crore |url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/cameraman-ganga-tho-rambabu-collects-rs-52-crore-518173.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220523075600/https://www.news18.com/news/india/cameraman-ganga-tho-rambabu-collects-rs-52-crore-518173.html |archive-date=23 May 2022 |access-date=31 May 2024 |website=News18}} Kalyan played Rambabu, a mechanic-turned-journalist who battles a corrupt politician.{{Cite web |date=22 February 2019 |title=Despite disruption, Cameraman Ganga Tho Rambabu earns Rs 52 crore |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/despite-disruption-cameraman-ganga-tho-rambabu-earns-rs-52-crore-608396 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240531045532/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/despite-disruption-cameraman-ganga-tho-rambabu-earns-rs-52-crore-608396 |archive-date=31 May 2024 |access-date=31 May 2024 |website=NDTV.com}} The film faced political controversy and protests, leading to halted screenings in Telangana and calls for a ban. In response, the producers made cuts and modifications.{{Cite web |date=20 October 2012 |title=Screening of Pawan's film stopped |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/screening-of-pawans-film-stopped/article4013708.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120161415/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/screening-of-pawans-film-stopped/article4013708.ece |archive-date=20 November 2023 |access-date=31 May 2024 |website=The Hindu}} Despite this, it was successful, earning ₹52 crore in its opening weekend against a ₹25 crore budget.

In September 2013, Pawan Kalyan starred in Attarintiki Daredi, directed by Trivikram Srinivas.{{Cite news |date=15 January 2017 |title=Celebs condemn the piracy act of Attarintiki Daredi – Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/Celebs-condemn-the-piracy-act-of-Attarintiki-Daredi/articleshow/22929711.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171002023814/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/Celebs-condemn-the-piracy-act-of-Attarintiki-Daredi/articleshow/22929711.cms |archive-date=2 October 2017 |access-date=16 April 2020 |website=The Times of India}} He played Gautham Nanda, a wealthy heir who disguises himself as a driver to reunite his grandfather with his estranged daughter. Despite significant piracy issues before its release, the film became the highest-grossing Telugu film of the time, surpassing Magadheera (2009).{{Cite news |date=27 October 2013 |title=Attarintiki Daredi collections crossed Magadheera |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/attarintiki-daredi-collections-crossed-magadheera/articleshow/24776427.cms |access-date=2024-10-13 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}} It won four Nandi Awards and four Filmfare Awards South. Kalyan's performance, noted for its charisma and comedic timing, was highly praised and earned him the Santosham Best Actor Award, with nominations for both a Filmfare Award and a SIIMA Award. It was remade into Kannada as Ranna (2015), in Bengali as Abhimaan (2016), and in Tamil as Vantha Rajavathaan Varuven (2019). In 2014, a Star India survey ranked Kalyan as one of the Top 5 Heroes of India.{{cite web |title=Pawan Kalyan in Top 5 Heroes of India |url=http://deccan-journal.com/content/pawan-kalyan-top-5-heroes-india |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190106225120/http://deccan-journal.com/content/pawan-kalyan-top-5-heroes-india |archive-date=6 January 2019 |access-date=9 June 2014 |work=Deccan-Journal}}

In March 2014, Kalyan founded the Janasena Party and actively campaigned in the 2014 elections. Thereafter, he continued his political career alongside his film career. His first film release after starting Janasena was Gopala Gopala (2015), a Telugu remake of the Hindi film OMG – Oh My God! (2012).{{cite news|date=22 July 2014|title=Pawan Kalyan to play Krishna in Telugu remake of Oh My God|work=The Hindustan Times|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/pawan-kalyan-to-play-krishna-in-telugu-remake-of-oh-my-god/story-ay8kYAkfEnusU556mWvzFJ.html|url-status=live|access-date=28 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205112838/http://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/pawan-kalyan-to-play-krishna-in-telugu-remake-of-oh-my-god/story-ay8kYAkfEnusU556mWvzFJ.html|archive-date=5 February 2016}} The film featured Kalyan starring alongside Venkatesh and was directed by Kishore Kumar Pardasani.{{cite news |last=Devi Dundoo |first=Sangeetha |date=10 January 2015 |title=Gopala Gopala: Of faith and superstitions |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-reviews/gopala-gopala-of-faith-and-superstitions/article6775354.ece |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150111081438/http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-reviews/gopala-gopala-of-faith-and-superstitions/article6775354.ece |archive-date=11 January 2015 |access-date=11 January 2015 |newspaper=The Hindu}} It was produced by D. Suresh Babu and Sharrath Marar. Made on a budget of {{INR}}12 crore, the film was released in January 2015 as a Sankranthi release. In the film, Pawan Kalyan plays Lord Krishna in disguise as a common man, Govinda Gopala Hari, to help a devout atheist challenge fraudulent godmen and promote a true understanding of God. It received positive reviews from critics and was commercially successful grossing {{INR}}88.1 crore with a distributor share of {{INR}}41.1 crore.{{Cite news |date=22 January 2015 |title=Gopala Gopala collections set new record |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/gopala-gopala-collections-set-new-record/articleshow/45980386.cms |access-date=2024-10-13 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

In 2016, Kalyan starred in Sardaar Gabbar Singh. It was co-written and directed by K. S. Ravindra, based on an original story by Kalyan himself. It was a sequel to his 2012 film Gabbar Singh. The film was released worldwide in April 2016, along with a Hindi dubbed version, on a screen count of 3,200 thus becoming the second biggest Telugu film release after Baahubali: The Beginning (2015). It received mixed reviews from critics.{{Cite web |date=2016-04-07 |title='Sardaar Gabbar Singh' second biggest Telugu release after 'Baahubali' |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-sardaar-gabbar-singh-is-second-biggest-telugu-release-after-baahubali-2199372 |access-date=2021-01-12 |website=DNA India |language=en |archive-date=3 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203105842/https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-sardaar-gabbar-singh-is-second-biggest-telugu-release-after-baahubali-2199372 |url-status=live }}

Katamarayudu (2017), a remake of Tamil film Veeram (2014) marked Kalyan's second collaboration with Kishore Kumar Pardasani.Sangeetha Devi Dundoo (24 March 2017) [http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/katamarayudu-rides-on-pawan-kalyans-presence/article17643121.ece Katamarayudu: One-man show] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210617001117/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/katamarayudu-rides-on-pawan-kalyans-presence/article17643121.ece |date=17 June 2021 }}. The Hindu In the film, Pawan Kalyan plays Katamarayudu, a selfless man who prioritizes his brothers' well-being over his own and eventually wins the approval of his love interest's father by proving his bravery and commitment. The film received mixed reviews, with the music being widely criticized as a major letdown and one of the weakest albums in Pawan Kalyan's career.

Kalyan's next film Agnyaathavaasi (2018), written and directed by Trivikram Srinivas, was touted as his 25th film.{{Cite web |date=2018-01-11 |title=Agnyaathavaasi box office: Pawan Kalyan film is second only to Baahubali 2 in US |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/agnyaathavaasi-box-office-pawan-kalyan-5020050/ |access-date=2024-06-22 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=22 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240622071405/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/agnyaathavaasi-box-office-pawan-kalyan-5020050/ |url-status=live }} The film stars Kalyan, Aadhi Pinisetty, Keerthy Suresh and Anu Emmanuel in lead roles. In the film, Kalyan plays Abhishikth Bhargav, the eldest son of a powerful businessman who returns to his family’s company from exile to uncover the truth behind his father's death and reclaim his rightful place in the business empire. Upon release, it received negative reviews from both critics and audiences, alike. The film was a box-office bomb.{{Cite web |date=2018-02-14 |title=Agnyaathavaasi Closing Collections Report |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Cinema/2018-02-14/Agnyaathavaasi-Closing-Collections-Report/358987 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220309193526/https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Cinema/2018-02-14/Agnyaathavaasi-Closing-Collections-Report/358987 |archive-date=9 March 2022 |access-date=9 March 2022 |website=The Hans India}}

In August 2017, Pawan Kalyan announced his intention to focus on politics starting October 2017 after completing his film commitments. Following the release of Agnyathavaasi in January 2018, Kalyan officially retired from the film industry to concentrate on his political career with the Janasena Party. During this period, from late 2017 to late 2019, he did not take on any new film projects.{{Cite news |date=2020-01-20 |title=Pawan Kalyan starts shooting for Telugu remake of 'Pink' |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/pawan-kalyan-starts-shooting-for-telugu-remake-of-pink/article30608018.ece |access-date=2024-08-10 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=2 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200302174726/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/pawan-kalyan-starts-shooting-for-telugu-remake-of-pink/article30608018.ece |url-status=live }} Speculation about his return to cinema began in September 2019, with discussions about potential scripts from directors like Krish and efforts by producer Dil Raju to convince him to choose a project.{{Cite web |date=2019-09-12 |title=Pawan Kalyan to make his comeback with Krish Jagarlamudi's film? |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/pawan-kalyan-to-make-his-comeback-with-krish-jagarlamudi-s-film-1598327-2019-09-12 |access-date=2024-08-10 |website=India Today |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2019-10-02 |title=Pawan Kalyan confused about his comeback in films. Will he balance cinema and politics? |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/pawan-kalyan-confused-about-his-comeback-in-films-will-he-balance-cinema-and-politics-1605538-2019-10-02 |access-date=2024-08-10 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=10 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240810195810/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/pawan-kalyan-confused-about-his-comeback-in-films-will-he-balance-cinema-and-politics-1605538-2019-10-02 |url-status=live }}

In November 2019, it was announced that Kalyan would star in the Telugu remake of the Hindi film Pink (2016), later titled Vakeel Saab.{{Cite news |date=2019-11-02 |title=Pawan Kalyan to star in Telugu remake of 'Pink' |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/pawan-kalyan-to-star-in-telugu-remake-of-pink/article29863564.ece |access-date=2024-08-10 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=10 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240810193443/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/pawan-kalyan-to-star-in-telugu-remake-of-pink/article29863564.ece |url-status=live }} Produced by Boney Kapoor and Dil Raju, and directed by Venu Sriram with dialogues by Trivikram Srinivas, filming for Vakeel Saab began on 20 January 2020, marking Kalyan's return to cinema after a two-year break following Agnyaathavaasi. The film, which also features Nivetha Thomas, Anjali, Ananya Nagalla, Prakash Raj, and Shruti Haasan, was released in April 2021, making it Kalyan's first film release in three years. Kalyan plays Satyadev, a former lawyer who overcomes personal tragedy and alcoholism to fight for justice and support wronged women. Vakeel Saab faced major challenges, such as blocked ticket price hikes and cancelled screenings due to political tensions and a COVID-19 lockdown during the second wave.{{Cite web |title=వకీల్ సాబ్ వివాదం: హైకోర్టు తీర్పుపై జగన్ ప్రభుత్వం హౌస్ మోషన్ పిటిషన్ |url=https://telugu.asianetnews.com/andhra-pradesh/vakeel-saab-controversy-ys-jagan-govt-to-file-house-motion-petition-in-high-court-qrbuir |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410045434/https://telugu.asianetnews.com/andhra-pradesh/vakeel-saab-controversy-ys-jagan-govt-to-file-house-motion-petition-in-high-court-qrbuir |archive-date=10 April 2021 |access-date=2021-04-10 |website=Asianet News Network |language=te}} Despite these issues, the film grossed ₹137.65 crore worldwide, becoming the second highest-grossing Telugu film of the year.{{Cite web |last=Amena |first=Rasti |date=30 April 2021 |title=Pawan Kalyan-starrer Vakeel Saab box office collection fails to touch 100 crore |url=https://www.siasat.com/pawan-kalyan-starrer-vakeel-saab-box-office-collection-fails-to-touch-100-crore-2130885/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210502135010/https://www.siasat.com/pawan-kalyan-starrer-vakeel-saab-box-office-collection-fails-to-touch-100-crore-2130885/ |archive-date=2 May 2021 |access-date=2 May 2021 |website=The Siasat Daily}}

In 2022, Pawan Kalyan starred in Bheemla Nayak, an action thriller film directed by Saagar K Chandra and written by Trivikram Srinivas. The film stars Pawan Kalyan and Rana Daggubati in lead roles. Kalyan plays Bheemla Nayak, a dedicated police officer known for his strong sense of justice and connection with his community. The film netted {{INR}}37 crore on opening day in India, becoming the best post-pandemic opener in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.{{Cite web |date=26 February 2022 |title=Telugu Film Bheemla Nayak Scores Huge Opening Day In Nizam / Andhra - Box Office India |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6679 |access-date= |website=Box Office India |archive-date=30 November 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241130063609/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6679 |url-status=live }} Bheemla Nayak grossed over ₹192 crore worldwide in 20 days,{{Cite web |date=17 March 2022 |title='Bheemla Nayak' box office collection Day 20: Pawan Kalyan's film steady, eyes Rs 100 crore |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/box-office/bheemla-nayak-box-office-collection-day-20-pawan-kalyans-film-steady-eyes-rs-100-crore/articleshow/90285418.cms |access-date=17 March 2022 |website=The Times of India}} despite restrictions like lowered ticket prices and a ban on early morning shows in Andhra Pradesh, which affected its earnings.

Kalyan's 2023 release was Bro, in which he starred alongside his nephew Sai Dharam Tej, under the direction of Samuthirakani. Produced by People Media Factory and Zee Studios, it is a remake of the director's own Tamil film Vinodhaya Sitham (2021). In the film, Pawan Kalyan plays Titan, a mysterious figure who represents Time, guiding Mark through a transformative journey to rectify his past and reconcile with his responsibilities before his final departure from Earth. The film received mixed-to-average reviews from critics.{{Cite news |title=Bro Movie Review : Banks more on Pawan Kalyan's fame than the story |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movie-reviews/bro/movie-review/102193766.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230728123438/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movie-reviews/bro/movie-review/102193766.cms |archive-date=28 July 2023 |access-date=28 July 2023 |website=The Times of India}}{{Cite web |title=BRO Review: Sai Dharam Tej's film celebrates Pawan Kalyan more than the story |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/reviews/story/bro-review-sai-dharam-tejs-film-celebrates-pawan-kalyan-more-than-the-story-2413027-2023-07-28 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230728123946/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/reviews/story/bro-review-sai-dharam-tejs-film-celebrates-pawan-kalyan-more-than-the-story-2413027-2023-07-28 |archive-date=28 July 2023 |access-date=28 July 2023 |website=India Today|date=28 July 2023 }}

Since the Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy government came to power in Andhra Pradesh in 2019, Pawan Kalyan's films have faced significant political challenges. His films Vakeel Saab, Bheemla Nayak, and Bro, have encountered obstacles like cancelled benefit shows, blocked ticket price hikes, and restrictions on screenings. These issues are widely attributed to Kalyan's outspoken criticism of the government, leading to a perceived political vendetta that has affected the releases and earnings of his films.{{Cite web |date=19 July 2023 |title=BRO Ticket Rates: టికెట్ ధరలు పెంచే ఆలోచన లేదన్న 'బ్రో' నిర్మాత.. సీఎంని అడగలేకేనా? |url=https://telugu.samayam.com/telugu-movies/cinema-news/no-hike-in-ticket-prices-for-pawan-kalyan-bro-movie-says-producer-t-g-vishwa-prasad/articleshow/101946053.cms |access-date=2024-08-12 |website=Samayam |language=te |archive-date=12 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240812185758/https://telugu.samayam.com/telugu-movies/cinema-news/no-hike-in-ticket-prices-for-pawan-kalyan-bro-movie-says-producer-t-g-vishwa-prasad/articleshow/101946053.cms |url-status=live }} Despite these challenges, his films have still performed well at the box office.

Kalyan is starring in the title role in Hari Hara Veera Mallu. It is a period action adventure film{{Cite web |title=Arjun Rampal to start shooting for PSPK 27 |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/stories/news/2021/feb/12/arjun-rampal-to-start-shooting-for-pspk-27-22797.html |access-date=11 March 2021 |website=Cinema Express |date=12 February 2021 |archive-date=16 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210216133004/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/stories/news/2021/feb/12/arjun-rampal-to-start-shooting-for-pspk-27-22797.html |url-status=live }} written and directed by Krish Jagarlamudi and A. M. Jyothi Krishna.{{Cite web |date=2 May 2024 |title=Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Pawan Kalyan's period drama has a new director; everything that happened with the film so far |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/hari-hara-veera-mallu-pawan-kalyan-s-period-drama-new-director-krish-jyothi-krishna-101714636045893.html |website=Hindustan Times}} It is a historical fiction film set in the 17th century Mughal Empire, inspired by the 14th century emperor Harihara. The film began its production in September 2020 with filming taking place primarily in Hyderabad. The filming and release of the film have been delayed and postponed multiple times owing to the COVID-19 pandemic and Kalyan's political commitments.{{cite web |title=Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Pawan Kalyan's period drama has a new director; everything that happened with the film so far |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/hari-hara-veera-mallu-pawan-kalyan-s-period-drama-new-director-krish-jyothi-krishna-101714636045893.html |access-date=2 May 2024 |website=Hindustan Times |archive-date=2 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240502105647/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/hari-hara-veera-mallu-pawan-kalyan-s-period-drama-new-director-krish-jyothi-krishna-101714636045893.html |url-status=live }}

Mythri Movie Makers also announced Ustaad Bhagat Singh with Kalyan, under the direction of Harish Shankar.{{Cite news |date=8 April 2021 |title=#PSPK28: Pawan Kalyan to play lecturer in Harish Shankar's next? - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pspk28-pawan-kalyan-to-play-lecturer-in-harish-shankars-next/articleshow/81967838.cms |access-date=27 August 2021 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=27 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827160707/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pspk28-pawan-kalyan-to-play-lecturer-in-harish-shankars-next/articleshow/81967838.cms |url-status=live }} The film was announced as Bhavadeeyudu Bhagat Singh on 9 September 2021.{{Cite news |date=9 September 2021 |title=Pawan Kalyan's 28th film titled 'Bhavadeeyudu Bhagat Singh' |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/pawan-kalyans-28th-film-titled-bhavadeeyudu-bhagat-singh/article36376193.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230618082721/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/pawan-kalyans-28th-film-titled-bhavadeeyudu-bhagat-singh/article36376193.ece |archive-date=18 June 2023 |access-date=18 June 2023 |newspaper=The Hindu |via=www.thehindu.com}} It marks the second collaboration of Pawan Kalyan with Harish Shankar after Gabbar Singh.{{Cite web |date=9 September 2021 |title=Pawan Kalyan's first look from Bhavadeeyudu Bhagat Singh out: It's not just about entertainment this time |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/pawan-kalyan-bhavadeeyudu-bhagat-singh-first-look-out-pspk28-7497928/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230612155708/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/pawan-kalyan-bhavadeeyudu-bhagat-singh-first-look-out-pspk28-7497928/ |archive-date=12 June 2023 |access-date=12 June 2023}} Later in December 2022, the title was changed to Ustaad Bhagat Singh.{{Cite web |date=11 December 2022 |title=Pawan Kalyan, Harish Shankar reunite for 'Ustaad Bhagat Singh' |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/telugu/2022/dec/11/pawan-kalyan-harish-shankar-reunite-for-ustaad-bhagat-singh-2527161.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230612155709/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/telugu/2022/dec/11/pawan-kalyan-harish-shankar-reunite-for-ustaad-bhagat-singh-2527161.html |archive-date=12 June 2023 |access-date=12 June 2023 |website=The New Indian Express}} The film's launch event with a pooja ceremony was held on 11 December 2022 at Ramanaidu Studios with cast and crew.{{cite web |date=12 December 2022 |title=Pawan Kalyan-Starrer Ustaad Bhagat Singh Goes on Floor, Know Details |url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/pawan-kalyan-starrer-ustaad-bhagat-singh-goes-on-floor-know-details-6601495.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230703043406/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/pawan-kalyan-starrer-ustaad-bhagat-singh-goes-on-floor-know-details-6601495.html |archive-date=3 July 2023 |access-date=3 July 2023}}

Another film, OG, was subsequently announced with Sujeeth as the director and D. V. V. Danayya as producer.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-06 |title=Pawan Kalyan-starrer OG release date announced: Here's when Sujeeth's film will hit theatres |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/og-release-date-announced-sujeeths-pawan-kalyan-they-call-him-og-101707218166772.html |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |access-date=22 June 2024 |archive-date=6 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206125328/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/og-release-date-announced-sujeeths-pawan-kalyan-they-call-him-og-101707218166772.html |url-status=live }} It is a gangster film and stars Kalyan, Emraan Hashmi (in his Telugu debut), and Priyanka Mohan in lead roles. The film was officially announced in December 2022 and principal photography commenced in April 2023 in Mumbai. OG was scheduled to release on 27 September 2024, but was postponed due to production delays. Kalyan was reported to receive {{INR}}100 crore for remuneration making him one of the highest paid Indian actors.{{Cite web |date=26 June 2023 |title=Rs 250 cr for Pawan Kalyan's OG, highest in his career |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/260623/rs-250-cr-for-pawan-kalyans-og-highest-in-his-career.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230703103415/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/260623/rs-250-cr-for-pawan-kalyans-og-highest-in-his-career.html |archive-date=3 July 2023 |access-date=3 July 2023}}{{Cite news |date=1 June 2023 |title=Is Pawan Kalyan joining the league of top Indian actors with his massive remuneration for Sujeeth's 'OG'? |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/is-pawan-kalyan-joining-the-league-of-top-indian-actors-with-his-massive-remuneration-for-sujeeths-og/articleshow/100670977.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230703103414/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/is-pawan-kalyan-joining-the-league-of-top-indian-actors-with-his-massive-remuneration-for-sujeeths-og/articleshow/100670977.cms |archive-date=3 July 2023 |access-date=3 July 2023 |newspaper=The Times of India}}

Pawan Kalyan began his political career in 2008 as the president of Yuvarajyam, the youth wing of the Praja Rajyam Party (PRP), founded by his elder brother Chiranjeevi.{{cite web |title=Chiranjeevi's brother Pavan Kalyan to head Praja Rajyam's youth wing |url=https://www.rediff.com/news/2008/dec/07chiranjeevi-brother-pavan-kalyan-to-head-praja-rajyam-youth-wing.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180117212349/http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/dec/07chiranjeevi-brother-pavan-kalyan-to-head-praja-rajyam-youth-wing.htm |archive-date=17 January 2018 |access-date=27 February 2019 |work=Rediff.com}}{{cite web |date=14 May 2012 |title=Pawan Kalyan to head Yuva Rajyam |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2008/dec/06/pawan-kalyan-to-head-yuva-rajyam-8540.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190227182142/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2008/dec/06/pawan-kalyan-to-head-yuva-rajyam-8540.html |archive-date=27 February 2019 |access-date=27 February 2019 |work=The New Indian Express}} During his time with PRP, Kalyan did not contest in elections or hold any constitutional post, though he actively campaigned for the party. His campaign efforts were marred by health issues, including a sunstroke that caused bouts of vomiting during a roadshow in Vizag on 19 April 2009. In 2011, when PRP merged with the Congress Party,{{cite news |date=7 February 2011 |title=Chiranjeevi announces merger of PRP with Congress in AP |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/chiranjeevi-announces-merger-of-prp-with-congress-in-ap/articleshow/7439756.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190227182244/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/chiranjeevi-announces-merger-of-prp-with-congress-in-ap/articleshow/7439756.cms |archive-date=27 February 2019 |access-date=27 February 2019 |newspaper=The Economic Times |publisher=}}{{Cite news |last1=Balaji |first1=J. |date=6 February 2011 |title=Praja Rajyam Party merges with congress |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Praja-Rajyam-Party-merges-with-Congress/article15130731.ece= |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011180909/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Praja-Rajyam-Party-merges-with-Congress/article15130731.ece |archive-date=11 October 2020 |access-date=6 February 2011 |website=The Hindu}} Kalyan expressed silent discontent with his brother's decision and took a break from political life.{{cite web |date=2014-03-14 |title=Pawan Kalyan floats Jana Sena party |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/pawan-kalyan-floats-jana-sena-party/article23120068.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230505073934/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/pawan-kalyan-floats-jana-sena-party/article23120068.ece |archive-date=5 May 2023 |access-date=2023-05-05 |website=Business Line |language=en |quote=After a hectic tour across the state that witnessed flamboyant speeches, the actor suddenly disappeared from public life following the merger of the party with the Congress. Reports suggested that he fell out with his brother after the merger. He wanted his brother to keep the party alive despite the setback at the polls.}}{{Cite news |date=2013-10-19 |title=Will actor Pawan Kalyan grow political wings? |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/will-actor-pawan-kalyan-grow-political-wings/articleshow/24395210.cms |access-date=2023-05-05 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |quote=The fact that his brother merged the PRP with the Congress did not go down quite well with Pawan Kalyan and this was a well-known thing. Chiru's younger brother stopped associating himself with politics or the political ambitions of his brother once the PRP was merged with Congress. |archive-date=7 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230507035209/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/will-actor-pawan-kalyan-grow-political-wings/articleshow/24395210.cms |url-status=live }} Reports suggested that he wanted his brother to keep the party going despite the setback at the polls.

Pawan Kalyan founded the Jana Sena Party on 14 March 2014.{{cite web |title=Telugu actor Pawan Kalyan launches new party – indtoday |url=http://www.indtoday.com/telugu-actor-pawan-kalyan-launches-new-party-indtoday/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140314182542/http://www.indtoday.com/telugu-actor-pawan-kalyan-launches-new-party-indtoday/ |archive-date=14 March 2014 |access-date=14 March 2014 |publisher=indtoday.com}}{{cite news |title=Pawan Kalyan's political outfit named as 'Jana Sena' Party |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news-interviews/Pawan-Kalyans-political-outfit-named-as-Jana-Sena-Party/articleshow/31899038.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140313121319/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news-interviews/Pawan-Kalyans-political-outfit-named-as-Jana-Sena-Party/articleshow/31899038.cms |archive-date=13 March 2014 |access-date=13 March 2014 |work=The Times of India}}{{cite web |date=14 March 2014 |title=Telugu Actor Pawan Kalyan Launches New Party |url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra_pradesh/Telugu-Actor-Pawan-Kalyan-Launches-New-Party/2014/03/14/article2109120.ece |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140314212113/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra_pradesh/Telugu-Actor-Pawan-Kalyan-Launches-New-Party/2014/03/14/article2109120.ece |archive-date=14 March 2014 |access-date=14 March 2014 |work=The New Indian Express}} He co-authored a book titled Ism, which outlines the party's ideology.{{cite web |date=April 2014 |title=Pawan's ISM book: A summary |url=http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Cinema/2014-04-01/Pawans-ISM-book-A-summary/90608 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160726072055/http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Cinema/2014-04-01/Pawans-ISM-book-A-summary/90608 |archive-date=26 July 2016 |access-date=5 July 2016 |website=The Hans India}} On 21 March 2014, Kalyan met Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi to discuss issues concerning the Telugu states and extended his support.{{Cite news |date=2014-03-21 |title=Pawan Kalyan meets Modi |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/pawan-kalyan-meets-modi/article5815891.ece |access-date=2024-08-04 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=5 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240805122107/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/pawan-kalyan-meets-modi/article5815891.ece |url-status=live }} He chose not to contest in the 2014 elections, instead supporting and campaigning extensively for the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and BJP alliance. Kalyan campaigned against the Congress party, giving the slogan "Congress Hatao, Desh Bachao" ({{Translation|Remove Congress, Save the Nation}}).{{cite news |date=15 March 2014 |title='Congress Hatao, Desh Bachao' |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/2014/mar/15/congress-hatao-desh-bachao-586391.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210403154111/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/2014/mar/15/Congress-Hatao-Desh-Bachao-586391.html |archive-date=3 April 2021 |access-date=28 March 2021 |work=The New Indian Express}} His rallies drew huge crowds in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana,[http://deccan-journal.com/content/pawan-draws-huge-crowds-karnataka/ Pawan draws huge crowds in Karnataka] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508104401/http://deccan-journal.com/content/pawan-draws-huge-crowds-karnataka|date=8 May 2014}}. Deccan-journal.com. Retrieved 14 May 2014. His support and campaigning played a crucial role in the TDP-led National Democratic Alliance's victory in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections.{{Cite web |date=2015-04-02 |title=Pawan Kalyan, the latest in a line of actor-turned-politicians, positions himself as the dark horse but will he avoid the electoral fate of his eldest brother Chiranjeevi? |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/nation/story/20150413-pawan-kalyan-andhra-pradesh-bjp-telugu-desam-818038-2015-04-02 |access-date=2024-08-04 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=4 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240804084029/https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/nation/story/20150413-pawan-kalyan-andhra-pradesh-bjp-telugu-desam-818038-2015-04-02 |url-status=live }}

In November 2016, Kalyan announced that Jana Sena will contest in the 2019 general elections in Andhra Pradesh.{{cite news |date=11 November 2016 |title=Jana Sena will contest 2019 polls |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/jana-sena-will-contest-2019-polls/article9331775.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011180909/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/%E2%80%98Jana-Sena-will-contest-2019-polls%E2%80%99/article16442735.ece |archive-date=11 October 2020 |access-date=11 November 2016 |newspaper=The Hindu |issn=0971-751X}} He stated that he was planning to contest from all 175 legislatures of Andhra Pradesh without any alliance.{{Cite web |date=3 January 2019 |title=No tie-ups, Jana Sena to contest all 175 seats in Andhra, says Pawan Kalyan |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/no-tie-ups-jana-sena-to-contest-all-175-seats-in-andhra-says-pawan-kalyan/story-OIf1N6ZDS7WVMHQa2qSI3I.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190202231028/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/no-tie-ups-jana-sena-to-contest-all-175-seats-in-andhra-says-pawan-kalyan/story-OIf1N6ZDS7WVMHQa2qSI3I.html |archive-date=2 February 2019 |access-date=7 February 2019 |website=Hindusthan Times}} In August 2017, he announced that he intended to enter full-time politics starting October 2017 once he completes his film commitments.{{cite news |date=1 August 2017 |title=Pawan Kalyan bids adieu to movies, will be a full-time politician from October |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/pawan-kalyan-bids-adieu-to-movies-will-be-a-full-time-politician-from-october-4776956/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210403193329/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/pawan-kalyan-bids-adieu-to-movies-will-be-a-full-time-politician-from-october-4776956/ |archive-date=3 April 2021 |access-date=28 March 2021 |work=The Indian Express}}

In 2017, Kalyan brought the Uddanam kidney disease crisis to the attention of media and politicians through protests and a hunger strike. Government of Andhra Pradesh responded by constructing dialysis centres and implementing various schemes for the village.{{cite news |date=25 May 2018 |title=Pawan Kalyan begins fast to over 'Uddanam' kidney ailment |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/pawan-kalyan-begins-fast-to-over-uddanam-kidney-ailment-118052501543_1.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180525183051/http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/pawan-kalyan-begins-fast-to-over-uddanam-kidney-ailment-118052501543_1.html |archive-date=25 May 2018 |access-date=28 March 2021 |work=Business Standard}} In December 2017, Kalyan opposed central government's move to privatise Dredging Corporation of India (DCI).{{Cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/pawan-kalyan-dredges-up-row-dci-sale-sends-workers-in-tizzy/articleshow/61956059.cms |title=Pawan Kalyan dredges up row, DCI sale sends workers in tizzy |website=The Times of India |date=7 December 2017 |access-date=8 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190209124430/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/pawan-kalyan-dredges-up-row-dci-sale-sends-workers-in-tizzy/articleshow/61956059.cms |archive-date=9 February 2019 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Sarma |first=Ch R. S. |date=6 December 2017 |title=Pawan Kalyan backs Dredging Corpn staff stir against privatisation |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/pawan-kalyan-backs-dredging-corpn-staff-stir-against-privatisation/article9984202.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210310044301/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/pawan-kalyan-backs-dredging-corpn-staff-stir-against-privatisation/article9984202.ece |archive-date=10 March 2021 |access-date=8 February 2019 |website=Business Line}} In July 2018, he opposed the TDP Government's decision on forced land pooling.{{cite news |date=28 July 2018 |title=Pawan questions State's 'strong-arm tactics' in acquisition of lands |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/pawan-questions-states-strong-arm-tactics-in-acquisition-of-lands/article24543080.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011180911/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/pawan-questions-states-strong-arm-tactics-in-acquisition-of-lands/article24543080.ece |archive-date=11 October 2020 |access-date=28 July 2018 |newspaper=The Hindu}} In October 2018, Kalyan conducted a march on the historical Dowleswaram Barrage in Rajahmundry demanding political accountability.{{cite news |date=15 October 2018 |title=Top priority to job generation: Pawan |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/top-priority-to-job-generation-pawan/article25231701.ece#= |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109031328/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/top-priority-to-job-generation-pawan/article25231701.ece |archive-date=9 November 2020 |access-date=16 October 2018 |newspaper=The Hindu}} In November 2018, he exposed the alleged unchecked mining in the reserved forest area at Vanthada village of Prathipadu in East Godavari district.{{cite web |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2018/nov/05/pawan-kalyan-alleges-hand-of-ruling-opposition-leaders-in-illegal-vanthada-mining-1894480.html |title=Pawan Kalyan alleges hand of ruling, Opposition leaders in 'illegal' Vanthada mining |work=The New Indian Express |date=5 November 2018 |access-date=25 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190225163114/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2018/nov/05/pawan-kalyan-alleges-hand-of-ruling-opposition-leaders-in-illegal-vanthada-mining-1894480.html |archive-date=25 February 2019 |url-status=live }} In December 2018, he led a protest march to condole the families of farmers who committed suicides or migrated from the drought-prone regions of Rayalaseema.{{Cite web |date=5 December 2018 |title=Pawan Kalyan leads protest over drought in Andhra's Rayalaseema region |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/pawan-kalyan-leads-protest-over-drought-andhras-rayalaseema-region-92775 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190209124244/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/pawan-kalyan-leads-protest-over-drought-andhras-rayalaseema-region-92775 |archive-date=9 February 2019 |access-date=8 February 2019 |website=The News Minute}}

Pawan Kalyan announced the Jana Sena Party's 2019 election manifesto at a public meeting in Rajahmundry, outlining measures to improve the lives of farmers, farm labourers, women, youth, and students.{{cite web |date=14 March 2019 |title=Jana Sena Party releases manifesto for 2019 elections |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/jana-sena-party-release-manfesto-for-2019-elections-512043 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190321044047/https://www.thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/jana-sena-party-release-manfesto-for-2019-elections-512043 |archive-date=21 March 2019 |access-date=17 March 2019 |website=The Hans India}}{{cite news |author=Staff Reporter |date=15 March 2019 |title=JSP manifesto focuses on youth and farmers |url=https://www.thehindu.com/elections/andhra-pradesh-assembly/jsp-manifesto-focuses-on-youth-and-farmers/article26541490.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011180910/https://www.thehindu.com/elections/andhra-pradesh-assembly/jsp-manifesto-focuses-on-youth-and-farmers/article26541490.ece |archive-date=11 October 2020 |access-date=15 March 2019 |newspaper=The Hindu}} He announced that his party would contest the 2019 elections in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Communist Party of India (CPI), and Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM).{{cite news |date=3 January 2019 |title=Left parties, Janasena to contest together in AP Assembly elections: CPI Narayana |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2019-01-03/Left-parties-Janasena-to-contest-together-in-AP-Assembly-elections-CPI-Narayana/468794/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210403193442/https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2019-01-03/Left-parties-Janasena-to-contest-together-in-AP-Assembly-elections-CPI-Narayana/468794/ |archive-date=3 April 2021 |access-date=28 March 2021 |work=The Hans India}}{{cite web |date=15 March 2019 |title=Janasena-BSP alliance for AP elections, Mayawati wants to see Pawan Kalyan as CM |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/janasena--bsp-alliance-for-ap-elections-mayawati-wants-to-see-pawan-kalyan-as-cm-512347 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011180920/https://www.thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/janasena--bsp-alliance-for-ap-elections-mayawati-wants-to-see-pawan-kalyan-as-cm-512347 |archive-date=11 October 2020 |access-date=17 March 2019 |website=The Hans India}} While actively campaigning across Andhra Pradesh, Kalyan experienced health issues, including dizziness and nausea. He was hospitalized and treated in Vijayawada after experiencing vomiting, dehydration, and drowsiness at Gannavaram Airport. The campaign resumed once he recovered.{{cite web |date=6 April 2019 |title=Pawan Kalyan hospitalized, suffers sunstroke |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/vijayawada/2019/apr/06/pawan-kalyan-suffers-sunstroke-hospitalised-1960858.html |website=The New Indian Express |access-date=30 May 2023 |archive-date=30 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230530134219/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/vijayawada/2019/apr/06/pawan-kalyan-suffers-sunstroke-hospitalised-1960858.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |date=6 April 2019 |title=Pawan Kalyan fell ill due to sunstroke |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/pawan-kalyan-fell-ill-due-to-sun-stroke-518456 |website=The Hand India |access-date=30 May 2023 |archive-date=30 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230530134223/https://www.thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/pawan-kalyan-fell-ill-due-to-sun-stroke-518456 |url-status=live }}

Jana Sena Party contested in 140 constituencies in the 2019 Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly election, of which, Kalyan contested in two constituencies – Gajuwaka{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/elections/assembly-elections/andhra-pradesh/andhra-pradesh-assembly-elections-pawan-kalyan-to-contest-from-gajuwaka-and-bhimavaram/articleshow/68478694.cms |title=Andhra Pradesh assembly elections: Pawan Kalyan to contest from Gajuwaka and Bhimavaram |website=The Times of India |date=19 March 2019 |access-date=19 March 2019 |archive-date=11 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011180920/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/elections/assembly-elections/andhra-pradesh/andhra-pradesh-assembly-elections-pawan-kalyan-to-contest-from-gajuwaka-and-bhimavaram/articleshow/68478694.cms |url-status=live }} and Bhimavaram.{{Cite web |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/ap-assembly-jana-sena-chief-pawan-kalyan-contest-bhimavaram-and-gajuwaka-98570 |title=AP Assembly:Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan to contest from Bhimavaram and Gajuwaka |website=thenewsminute.com |date=19 March 2019 |access-date=19 March 2019 |archive-date=11 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011180926/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/ap-assembly-jana-sena-chief-pawan-kalyan-contest-bhimavaram-and-gajuwaka-98570 |url-status=live }} He lost in both constituencies to candidates from YSR Congress Party.{{cite news|date=24 May 2019|title=Embarrassing loss for Pawan Kalyan|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/embarrassing-loss-for-pawan-kalyan/article27228822.ece|url-status=live|access-date=28 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210402103327/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/embarrassing-loss-for-pawan-kalyan/article27228822.ece|archive-date=2 April 2021}} His party was able to win from Razole, making it the only seat it won in the election.{{cite news|date=24 May 2019|title=Pawan Kalyan loses both seats, Jana Sena wins one|work=Deccan Chronicle|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/politics/240519/pawan-kalyan-loses-both-seats-js-wins-one.html|url-status=live|access-date=28 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108002732/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/politics/240519/pawan-kalyan-loses-both-seats-js-wins-one.html|archive-date=8 November 2020}} But the party garnered around 6% vote share.

After the 2019 setback, Kalyan and JSP focused on highlighting issues like farmer welfare, transparent governance, poor infrastructure, illegal sand mining, women's safety, land encroachment etc. On 3 November 2019, Kalyan led a long march in Visakhapatnam in support of construction workers, against YSR Congress Party, who have been facing unemployment due to a shortage of supply of sand in Andhra Pradesh.{{Cite web|last=Reddy|first=Jahnavi|date=4 November 2019|title='Compensate workers in 2 weeks':Pawan Kalyan holds rally in Vizag over sand shortage|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/compensate-workers-2-weeks-pawan-kalyan-holds-rally-vizag-over-sand-shortage-111670|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191104101802/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/compensate-workers-2-weeks-pawan-kalyan-holds-rally-vizag-over-sand-shortage-111670|archive-date=4 November 2019|access-date=28 March 2021|website=The News Minute}} On 16 January 2020, Kalyan announced his party's alliance with BJP, after three years of distancing from it.{{cite news|date=16 January 2020|title=Pawan Kalyan's Jana Sena and BJP join hands in Andhra Pradesh to emerge as third alternative|work=The New Indian Express|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2020/jan/16/pawan-kalyans-jana-sena-and-bjp-join-hands-in-andhra-pradesh-to-emerge-as-third-alternative-2090394.html|url-status=live|access-date=28 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200119142234/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2020/jan/16/pawan-kalyans-jana-sena-and-bjp-join-hands-in-andhra-pradesh-to-emerge-as-third-alternative-2090394.html|archive-date=19 January 2020}} On 12 February 2020, he led a rally for justice to Sugali Preethi, a 15-year-old girl who was raped and murdered, in Kurnool.{{Cite web |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/pawan-kalyan-protest-against-kurnool-rape-murder-faces-student-opposition-117865 |title=Pawan Kalyan to protest against Kurnool rape-murder, faces student opposition |website=thenewsminute.com |date=10 February 2020 |access-date=10 February 2020 |archive-date=25 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225091101/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/pawan-kalyan-protest-against-kurnool-rape-murder-faces-student-opposition-117865 |url-status=live }} He demanded an inquiry by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the incident.{{Cite web|last=Bandari|first=Pavan Kumar|date=19 February 2020|title=Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan welcomes Jagan's move over CBI inquiry on Sugali Preethi's case|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/jana-sena-chief-pawan-kalyan-welcomes-jagans-move-over-cbi-inquiry-on-sugali-preethis-case-606148|url-status=live|access-date=28 March 2021|website=The Hans India|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210403193854/https://www.thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/jana-sena-chief-pawan-kalyan-welcomes-jagans-move-over-cbi-inquiry-on-sugali-preethis-case-606148|archive-date=3 April 2021}} In late 2022, Kalyan started 'Jana Vani,' a series of small public meetings to hear people's grievances. In 2023, he launched a state-wide yatra in his customized vehicle 'Varahi,' aimed at strengthening the party's connection with the voters.

In the 2024 General and state Assembly elections, Kalyan played a key role in forging an alliance between JSP, TDP and BJP by limiting the number of seats his party contested. The alliance swept to power in a landslide victory, with Jana Sena winning each of the seats it contested {{Em dash}} 21 MLA seats and 2 MP seats. Kalyan was elected to the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly from Pithapuram constituency by a margin of over 70,000 votes.

File:Prime Minister Of Bharat Shri Narendra Damodardas Modi attending Swearing in ceremony of newly elected Government Of Andhra Pradesh.jpg

On 12 June 2024, Pawan Kalyan was sworn in as a cabinet minister in the Government of Andhra Pradesh, and on 14 June 2024, he was announced as the deputy chief minister of Andhra Pradesh.{{Cite news |date=2024-06-14 |title=Full list of Andhra Pradesh Cabinet Ministers with portfolios: Who gets what |url=https://www.thehindu.com/elections/andhra-pradesh-assembly/andhra-pradesh-council-of-ministers-full-list/article68288989.ece |access-date=2024-06-17 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=15 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615022120/https://www.thehindu.com/elections/andhra-pradesh-assembly/andhra-pradesh-council-of-ministers-full-list/article68288989.ece |url-status=live }} He is also the Minister of Panchayat Raj, Rural Development & Rural Water Supply; Environment, Forests, Science & Technology.{{cite news |date=12 June 2024 |title=Chandrababu Naidu Takes Oath As Andhra Chief Minister, Pawan Kalyan As His Deputy |url=https://www.news18.com/politics/chandrababu-naidu-takes-oath-as-andhra-chief-minister-pawan-kalyan-as-his-deputy-8930015.html |website=News18.com}}{{Cite news |date=14 June 2024 |title=Pawan Kalyan named Deputy CM, Nara Lokesh IT minister in Andhra Pradesh government |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pawan-kalyan-named-deputy-cm-nara-lokesh-it-minister-in-andhra-pradesh-government-101718359878590.html |work=Hindustan Times |archive-date=14 June 2024 |access-date=14 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614114103/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pawan-kalyan-named-deputy-cm-nara-lokesh-it-minister-in-andhra-pradesh-government-101718359878590.html |url-status=live }}

In August 2024, under Pawan Kalyan's leadership, the Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Department held Grama Sabhas (village council meetings) in 13,326 villages in one day. This achievement was recognized as a world record by the World Records Union (WRU), and Kalyan received the certificate and medal from WRU as the minister of the department.{{Cite news |last=Raghavendra |first=V. |date=2024-09-16 |title=Conduct of Grama Sabhas in 13,326 villages on August 23 recognised as a world record |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/conduct-of-grama-sabhas-in-13326-villages-on-august-23-recognised-as-a-world-record/article68647659.ece |access-date=2024-10-22 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=7 October 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241007124649/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/conduct-of-grama-sabhas-in-13326-villages-on-august-23-recognised-as-a-world-record/article68647659.ece |url-status=live }} In October 2024, Kalyan launched the Palle Panduga Panchayat Varotsavalu programme, addressing issues raised during the August Grama Sabhas and overseeing 30,000 development projects across 13,326 Grama Panchayats, with a total allocation of ₹4,500 crore.{{Cite web |last=Kumar |first=K. Kalyan Krishna |date=2024-10-15 |title=Rs 4,500 crore works launched in 13,000 Gram Panchayats in Andhra Pradesh |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2024/Oct/15/rs-4500-crore-works-launched-in-13000-gram-panchayats-in-andhra-pradesh |access-date=2024-10-22 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}

In October 2024, Pawan Kalyan directed the Kakinada district collector to inspect schools, hospitals, and sanitation facilities in 52 Gram Panchayats in his Pithapuram constituency, aiming to resolve local issues.{{Cite web |author=MD Ilyas |date=2024-10-12 |title=Pawan Kalyan zeroes in on Pithapuram to speed up development |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/andhra-pradesh/pawan-kalyan-zeroes-in-on-pithapuram-to-speed-up-development-1829800 |access-date=2024-10-22 |website=Deccan Chronicle |language=en |archive-date=3 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203204850/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/andhra-pradesh/pawan-kalyan-zeroes-in-on-pithapuram-to-speed-up-development-1829800 |url-status=live }}

Pawan Kalyan is known for his extensive philanthropic efforts, supporting a wide range of social causes including disaster relief, healthcare, education, farmers' welfare, soldiers' welfare, parasports, elderly care, orphan welfare, arts, literature, and temples. He has provided financial support to individuals in need and has also organized broader efforts to aid various communities.{{Refn|}} In 2017, he was chosen for the Indo-European Business Forum's Excellence Award in recognition of his work as philanthropic and social work.

In 1998, Pawan Kalyan donated {{Indian Rupee}}75,000 as a fixed deposit for the infant son of a lift operator who died during the filming of Thammudu.{{Cite web |date=1998 |title=పవన్ కళ్యాణ్, శ్రీ వెంకటేశ్వర ఆర్ట్ ఫిలింస్ వితరణ |url=https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FR5EkbEaAAA9Fsl.jpg |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220504055127/https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FR5EkbEaAAA9Fsl.jpg |archive-date=4 May 2022 |language=te}} In 1999, he donated {{Indian Rupee}}1 lakh for the welfare of Indian soldiers participating in the Kargil War.{{Cite web |date=1999 |title='తమ్ముడు' విరాళం |url=https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FR4guQ-aMAE5C2W.jpg |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220504031445/https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FR4guQ-aMAE5C2W.jpg |archive-date=4 May 2022 |language=te}} In 2007, he founded the charity Common Man Protection Force by donating an initial fund of {{Indian Rupee}}1 crore.{{Refn|{{Cite web |author=R G Vijayasarathy |date=2 November 2007 |title=Chiru's brother lends a hand to common man |url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2007/nov/02kalyan.htm |access-date=2023-05-05 |website=Rediff.com}}}} In 2012, he donated {{Indian Rupee}}5 lakh to shooter C. Rekha of Anantapur to avail better training facilities.{{Cite web |date=2012-07-28 |title=Shooter gets gift from Pawan Kalyan |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/telugu/2012/Jul/28/shooter-gets-gift-from-pawan-kalyan-391622.html |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=2 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802211115/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/telugu/2012/Jul/28/shooter-gets-gift-from-pawan-kalyan-391622.html |url-status=live }} In 2013, he provided financial assistance and essential supplies to an old-age home in Khammam facing an existential crisis{{Cite web |date=26 June 2016 |title=Pawan Kalyan helps a old age home |url=http://www.indiaherald.com/Movies/Read/135743/Pawan-Kalyan-helps-a-old-age-home |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=India Herald |language=en |archive-date=2 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802130316/https://www.indiaherald.com/Movies/Read/135743/Pawan-Kalyan-helps-a-old-age-home |url-status=live }} and donated {{Indian Rupee}}20 lakh for Uttarakhand flood victims.{{Cite news |date=23 June 2013 |title=Pawan donates 20 lakhs for Uttarakhand flood victims |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/pawan-donates-20-lakhs-for-uttarakhand-flood-victims/articleshow/20724074.cms |access-date=2024-08-02 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=3 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703221721/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/Pawan-donates-20-lakhs-for-Uttarakhand-flood-victims/articleshow/20724074.cms |url-status=live }} In 2014, he donated {{Indian Rupee}}50 lakh to the Chief Minister's relief fund for Cyclone Hudhud relief in Andhra Pradesh.{{Cite web |date=2014-10-15 |title=Hudhud aftermath: Actor Pawan Kalyan donates Rs 50 lakh to relief fund |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/telugu-actor-pawan-kalyan-gives-rs-50-lakh-for-cyclone-relief-work-223205-2014-10-15 |access-date=2024-08-01 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=26 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326151927/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/telugu-actor-pawan-kalyan-gives-rs-50-lakh-for-cyclone-relief-work-223205-2014-10-15 |url-status=live }} In 2016, he funded the reprint of Gunturu Seshendra Sarma's popular book Adhunika Mahabharatam and also wrote a foreword for it.{{Cite web |last=Kavirayani |first=Suresh |date=2016-07-08 |title=Pawan Kalyan reprints Seshendra's book |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/070716/pawan-kalyan-reprints-seshendras-book.html |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=Deccan Chronicle |language=en |archive-date=2 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802130313/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/070716/pawan-kalyan-reprints-seshendras-book.html |url-status=live }} He also donated {{Indian Rupee}}5 lakh to Gota Satish Kumar, a double amputee on a 50,000 km bike journey across the country.{{Cite web |date=2017-01-10 |title=Pawan Kalyan's Financial Aid to an Inspiring Bike Rider |url=https://www.m9.news/movienews/pawan-kalyan-financial-aid-to-an-inspiring-bike-rider-gota-satish-kumar/ |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=M9.news |language=en-US}} In January 2018, Kalyan donated {{Indian Rupee}}11 lakh to Kondagattu Anjaneya Swamy temple for developmental works.{{Cite web |date=2018-01-22 |title=Pawan Kalyan donates Rs 11 lakh for Hanuman temple |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Telangana/2018-01-22/Pawan-Kalyan-donates-Rs-11-lakh-for-Hanuman-temple/353540 |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=The Hans India |language=en |archive-date=2 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802130313/https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Telangana/2018-01-22/Pawan-Kalyan-donates-Rs-11-lakh-for-Hanuman-temple/353540 |url-status=live }} In April 2018, he announced a donation of ₹24 lakh, providing ₹1 lakh to each of the 24 teams of specially-abled cricketers competing in the second National T20 Challenge Cup tournament.{{Cite news |last=Subrahmanyam |first=V. V. |date=2018-04-16 |title='Special' show of will and the willow |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/special-show-of-will-and-the-willow/article23564559.ece |access-date=2024-08-01 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}

In 2019, Pawan Kalyan made a donation of {{Indian Rupee}}1.32 crore to the Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy temple in Guntur district for a 'Free Food Distribution' program.{{Cite web |date=13 April 2019 |title=Janasena chief Pawan Kalyan donates Rs 1.32 Crs |url=https://andhrapradesh.suryaa.com/ap-english-5098-janasena-chief-pawan-kalyan-donates-rs-1-32-crs.html |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=Suryaa |language=en}} In February 2020, he donated {{Indian Rupee}}1 crore for the welfare of the families of Indian army men and to authorities at the Kendriya Sainik Board in New Delhi.{{Cite web |date=2020-02-20 |title=JSP chief Pawan Kalyan donates Rs 1 crore for Army men's welfare |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/andhra-pradesh/jsp-chief-pawan-kalyan-donates-rs-1-crore-army-men-s-welfare-118601 |access-date=2024-08-01 |website=The News Minute |language=en}} In March 2020, Kalyan donated ₹2 crore to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, with ₹50 lakh each to the Chief Minister Relief Funds of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, and ₹1 crore to the Prime Minister Relief Fund.{{Cite news |date=2020-04-27 |title=Coronavirus Pandemic: Pawan Kalyan donates Rs 2 crore for relief measures |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/coronavirus-pandemic-pawan-kalyan-donates-rs-2-crore-for-relief-measures/articleshow/74824061.cms |access-date=2024-08-01 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=7 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241207065322/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/coronavirus-pandemic-pawan-kalyan-donates-rs-2-crore-for-relief-measures/articleshow/74824061.cms |url-status=live }} In October 2020, he donated {{Indian Rupee}}1 crore to Telangana Chief Minister relief fund for assistance in Hyderabad floods.{{Cite web |date=2020-10-21 |title=Pawan Kalyan donates Rs 1 crore to Telangana CM relief fund for Hyderabad floods |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/pawan-kalyan-donates-rs-1-crore-to-telangana-cm-relief-fund-for-hyderabad-floods-1733788-2020-10-21 |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=2 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802130314/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/pawan-kalyan-donates-rs-1-crore-to-telangana-cm-relief-fund-for-hyderabad-floods-1733788-2020-10-21 |url-status=live }} In January 2021, he donated {{Indian Rupee}}30 lakh for the construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.{{Cite web |date=2021-01-24 |title=Pawan Kalyan donates Rs 30 lakh for construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/pawan-kalyan-donates-rs-30-lakh-for-construction-of-ram-temple-in-ayodhya-7159751/ |access-date=2024-08-01 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=4 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241204173201/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/pawan-kalyan-donates-rs-30-lakh-for-construction-of-ram-temple-in-ayodhya-7159751/ |url-status=live }} In March 2021, he visited a cancer-afflicted fan and donated {{Indian Rupee}}5 lakh to his parents towards his medical expenses.{{Cite web |date=2021-03-10 |title=Pawan Kalyan: క్యాన్సర్‌‌‌‌తో పోరాడుతున్న అభిమానిని పరామర్శించిన పవర్‌‌‌‌‌‌‌స్టార్ పవన్ కళ్యాణ్.. |url=https://tv9telugu.com/photo-gallery/cinema-photos/janasena-chief-pawan-kalyan-meets-his-fan-who-is-suffering-from-cancer-434092-3.html |access-date=2024-10-27 |website=TV9 Telugu |language=te |archive-date=3 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203120104/https://tv9telugu.com/photo-gallery/cinema-photos/janasena-chief-pawan-kalyan-meets-his-fan-who-is-suffering-from-cancer-434092-3.html |url-status=live }} In September 2021, he donated {{Indian Rupee}}2 lakh financial aid to the folk artist Darsanam Mogilaiah through Pawan Kalyan Learning Centre for Human Excellence, a trust founded by him.{{Cite web |date=2021-09-05 |title=Telugu star Pawan Kalyan gives Rs 2 lakhs aid to folk artist Kinnera Mogilaiah |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2021/Sep/05/telugu-star-pawan-kalyan-gives-rs-2-lakhs-aid-to-folk-artist-kinnera-mogilaiah-2354457.html |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=2 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802184652/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2021/Sep/05/telugu-star-pawan-kalyan-gives-rs-2-lakhs-aid-to-folk-artist-kinnera-mogilaiah-2354457.html |url-status=live }}

In October 2021, Pawan Kalyan contributed ₹1 crore towards converting the house of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Damodaram Sanjivayya into a memorial.{{Cite web |author=Anukaran |date=2021-10-22 |title=కోటి రూపాయల విరాళం ప్రకటించిన పవన్ కల్యాణ్ |url=https://www.dishadaily.com/pawan-kalyan-announces-donation-of-one-crore |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=Disha Daily |language=te |archive-date=2 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802200356/https://www.dishadaily.com/pawan-kalyan-announces-donation-of-one-crore |url-status=live }} In March 2022, he donated {{Indian Rupee}}2 lakh to Indian under-19 cricket team vice-captain Shaik Rasheed through his trust.{{Cite web |date=2022-03-08 |title=అండర్‌ -19 క్రికెటర్‌ షేక్‌ రషీద్‌కు పవన్‌ కల్యాణ్‌ ఆర్థిక సాయం |url=https://www.ntnews.com/andhrapradesh-news/pawan-kalyan-financial-assistance-to-under-19-cricketer-sheikh-rashid-484569 |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=Namasthe Telangana |language=te |archive-date=2 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802184652/https://www.ntnews.com/andhrapradesh-news/pawan-kalyan-financial-assistance-to-under-19-cricketer-sheikh-rashid-484569 |url-status=live }} In April 2022, Pawan Kalyan donated {{Indian Rupee}}5 crore for farmers' welfare from his remuneration for Bheemla Nayak film.{{Cite web |date=2022-04-06 |title=Janasena Chief Pawan Kalyan Donates Rs 5 Crore For Welfare Of Farmers |url=https://news.abplive.com/news/janasena-chief-pawan-kalyan-donates-rs-5-crore-for-welfare-of-farmers-1523927 |access-date=2024-08-01 |website=ABP News |language=en |archive-date=3 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203170525/https://news.abplive.com/news/janasena-chief-pawan-kalyan-donates-rs-5-crore-for-welfare-of-farmers-1523927 |url-status=live }} In June 2022, he provided financial assistance of ₹74 lakh, distributing ₹1 lakh each to kin of 74 tenant farmers who committed suicide and assured to fund the education of two daughters of a deceased farmer.{{Cite news |last=Murali |first=S. |date=2022-06-19 |title=Andhra Pradesh: Pawan distributes ₹1 lakh each to kin of 74 tenant farmers who ended lives |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/andhra-pradesh-pawan-distributes-1-lakh-each-to-kin-of-74-tenant-farmers-who-ended-lives/article65542735.ece |access-date=2024-08-01 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=4 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241204170627/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/andhra-pradesh-pawan-distributes-1-lakh-each-to-kin-of-74-tenant-farmers-who-ended-lives/article65542735.ece |url-status=live }} In November 2022, he extended financial aid of ₹39 lakh, providing ₹1 lakh each to 39 residents of Ippatam village in Guntur district, whose houses were demolished by the government.{{Cite news |last=Boda |first=Tharun |date=2022-11-27 |title=Pawan Kalyan distributes ₹39 lakh to Ippatam villagers |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/andhra-pradesh-pawan-kalyan-distributes-39-lakh-to-ippatam-villagers/article66192047.ece |access-date=2024-08-02 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=2 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802184652/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/andhra-pradesh-pawan-kalyan-distributes-39-lakh-to-ippatam-villagers/article66192047.ece |url-status=live }} In November 2023, he distributed ₹24.5 lakh in relief by providing cheques of ₹50,000 each to 49 fishermen in Visakhapatnam who lost their livelihoods due to a fire accident.{{Cite news |last=Gopal |first=B. Madhu |date=2023-11-24 |title=Pawan Kalyan gives away ₹50,000 each to victims of Vizag fishing harbour fire |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/pawan-kalyan-gives-away-50000-each-to-victims-of-vizag-fishing-harbour-fire/article67570802.ece |access-date=2024-08-02 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=9 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240909140219/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/pawan-kalyan-gives-away-50000-each-to-victims-of-vizag-fishing-harbour-fire/article67570802.ece |url-status=live }}

In September 2024, Pawan Kalyan personally donated ₹6 crore for flood relief, with ₹1 crore each to the CM Relief Funds of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, and ₹4 crore to flood-affected gram panchayats.{{Cite web |date=2024-09-04 |title=Pawan Kalyan Pledges Rs 6 Crore in Wake of AP and Telangana Floods; Praises CM Chandrababu's Efforts |url=https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!entertainment/pawan-kalyan-pledges-rs-6-crore-in-wake-of-ap-and-telangana-floods-enn24090403926 |access-date=2024-10-05 |website=ETV Bharat News |language=en |archive-date=7 October 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241007095858/https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!entertainment/pawan-kalyan-pledges-rs-6-crore-in-wake-of-ap-and-telangana-floods-enn24090403926 |url-status=live }} In October 2024, he donated ₹60 lakh from his personal funds to develop a sports ground for the Mysuravaripalli government school in the Railway Koduru constituency of Annamayya district.{{Cite web |date=10 October 2024 |title=Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan: క్రీడామైదానానికి సొంతంగా రూ.60 లక్షలు ఇచ్చిన పవన్‌ |url=https://www.eenadu.net/telugu-news/andhra-pradesh/deputy-cm-pawan-kalyan-gave-rs-60-lakhs-for-the-sports-ground/1702/124184482 |access-date=2024-10-13 |website=Eenadu |language=te |archive-date=6 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241206233615/https://www.eenadu.net/telugu-news/andhra-pradesh/deputy-cm-pawan-kalyan-gave-rs-60-lakhs-for-the-sports-ground/1702/124184482 |url-status=live }} In October 2024, Kalyan donated ₹10 lakh, offering ₹1 lakh to each family affected by the water contamination incident in Gurla village, Vizianagaram district.{{Cite news |date=2024-10-21 |title=Deputy CM Pawan visits Gurla and announced personal aid of Rs one lakh each to deceased families |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/deputy-cm-pawan-visits-gurla-and-announced-personal-aid-of-rs-one-lakh-each-to-deceased-families/articleshow/114435989.cms |access-date=2024-10-22 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=27 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241227125413/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/deputy-cm-pawan-visits-gurla-and-announced-personal-aid-of-rs-one-lakh-each-to-deceased-families/articleshow/114435989.cms |url-status=live }}

In April 2001, soft-drink giant Pepsi, announced him as its brand ambassador, making him the first South Indian to endorse the popular soft-drink.,{{Cite web |url=https://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/lf/2002/03/16/stories/2002031601450200.htm |title=A mouthful of bitter pill(s) |access-date=22 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030715111625/http://thehindu.com/thehindu/lf/2002/03/16/stories/2002031601450200.htm |archive-date=15 July 2003 |website=The Hindu |url-status=dead }} In January 2017, Kalyan agreed to take up the role of the brand ambassador for handloom weavers in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.,{{cite web |url=http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2017-01-18/Pawan-Kalyan-turns-brand-ambassador-for-handloom-weavers-in-AP-Telangana/274225 |title=Pawan Kalyan turns brand ambassador for handloom weavers in AP, Telangana |date=18 January 2017 |access-date=18 January 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170120134928/http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2017-01-18/Pawan-Kalyan-turns-brand-ambassador-for-handloom-weavers-in-AP-Telangana/274225 |archive-date=20 January 2017 |url-status=live }} In August 2017, Kalyan was asked to be the brand ambassador to Jeevandan, an initiative started for organ donation by the government of Andhra Pradesh.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/amaravati/pawan-kalyan-appointed-as-jeevan-dhaan-brand-ambassador/articleshow/59846596.cms |title=Pawan Kalyan appointed as 'Jeevan Dhaan' brand ambassador |website=The Times of India |date=31 July 2017 |access-date=13 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180829170635/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/amaravati/pawan-kalyan-appointed-as-jeevan-dhaan-brand-ambassador/articleshow/59846596.cms |archive-date=29 August 2018 |url-status=live }}

Kalyan was invited to Harvard University to deliver a speech at the 14th edition of India Conference 2017 along with R. Madhavan.{{cite news |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/madhavan-pawan-kalyan-to-speak-at-india-conference-at-harvard-117011600578_1.html |title=Madhavan, Pawan Kalyan to speak at India Conference at Harvard |agency=Press Trust of India |date=16 January 2017 |work=Business Standard India |access-date=21 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222083523/https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/madhavan-pawan-kalyan-to-speak-at-india-conference-at-harvard-117011600578_1.html |archive-date=22 December 2018 |url-status=live }}

Pawan Kalyan is the younger brother of actors Chiranjeevi and Nagendra Babu, and the uncle of actors Ram Charan, Allu Arjun, Varun Tej, Niharika Konidela, Sai Durgha Tej, and Panja Vaisshnav Tej.{{cite web |date=25 May 2018 |title=Ram Charan Teja says he will campaign for uncle Pawan Kalyan in 2019 |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/ram-charan-teja-says-he-will-campaign-uncle-pawan-kalyan-2019-81909 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180813210336/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/ram-charan-teja-says-he-will-campaign-uncle-pawan-kalyan-2019-81909 |archive-date=13 August 2018 |access-date=13 August 2018}}{{cite web |date=2 September 2017 |title=Varun Tej does a Pawan Kalyan |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/020917/varun-tej-does-a-pawan-kalyan.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180813180639/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/020917/varun-tej-does-a-pawan-kalyan.html |archive-date=13 August 2018 |access-date=13 August 2018}}{{cite news |date=20 February 2017 |title=Sai Dharam Tej credits uncle Pawan Kalyan for making him understand fan power |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/sai-dharam-tej-credits-uncle-pawan-kalyan-for-making-him-understand-fan-power/articleshow/57246572.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021124523/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/sai-dharam-tej-credits-uncle-pawan-kalyan-for-making-him-understand-fan-power/articleshow/57246572.cms |archive-date=21 October 2018 |access-date=21 October 2018 |website=The Times of India}}

Kalyan married Nandini in May 1997, but they separated by 1999.{{cite news |author=U. Sudhakar Reddy |date=29 December 2013 |title=Pawan Kalyan is married to Russian Anna Lezhneva |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/131229/entertainment-tollywood/article/pawan-kalyan-ties-third-knot |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140101051914/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/131229/entertainment-tollywood/article/pawan-kalyan-ties-third-knot |archive-date=1 January 2014 |access-date=15 January 2014 |work=Deccan Chronicle}} Their divorce was finalized in 2008, with Kalyan paying ₹5 crore as a one-time settlement.{{Cite news |date=29 January 2009 |title=Pavan Kalyan gets married |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/pavan-kalyan-gets-married/articleshow/4044370.cms |access-date=14 July 2021 |website=The Times of India |language=en |archive-date=14 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714210531/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/pavan-kalyan-gets-married/articleshow/4044370.cms |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=8 January 2008 |title=Actor cleared of bigamy charge |url=https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/news/india/actor-cleared-of-bigamy-charge/articleshow/15775836.cms |access-date=18 July 2021 |website=Mumbai Mirror |language=en |archive-date=18 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718085802/https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/news/india/actor-cleared-of-bigamy-charge/articleshow/15775836.cms |url-status=live }} In 2001, Kalyan began a relationship with Renu Desai, and they married in January 2009 in a ceremony conducted according to Arya Samaj rites at his residence in Jubilee Hills. They have a son and a daughter together. The couple divorced in 2012.{{Cite web |last=Rhode |first=Shruti |date=20 December 2020 |title=All you need to know about Pawan Kalyan's roller-coaster love life |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/article/all-you-need-to-know-about-pawan-kalyans-roller-coaster-love-life/696899 |access-date=14 July 2021 |website=Times Now |archive-date=14 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714194319/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/article/all-you-need-to-know-about-pawan-kalyans-roller-coaster-love-life/696899 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2016-09-19 |title='We're still good friends,' says Pawan Kalyan's ex wife Renu Desai |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/flix/were-still-good-friends-says-pawan-kalyans-ex-wife-renu-desai-50077 |access-date=2024-06-08 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=8 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240608180100/https://www.thenewsminute.com/flix/were-still-good-friends-says-pawan-kalyans-ex-wife-renu-desai-50077 |url-status=live }} Renu later stated that they parted ways for personal reasons but still maintain a friendly relationship.

Kalyan married Anna Lezhneva, a Russian citizen, in September 2013 under the Special Marriage Act at a Sub-Registrar Office in Hyderabad. The couple has a daughter and a son.{{cite web |title=Pawan Kalyan's son with Anna Lezhneva named Mark Shankar Pawanovich? |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/pawan-kalyan-anna-lezhneva-baby-boy-mark-shankar-pawanovich-1076511-2017-11-03 |website=India Today |date=3 November 2017 |access-date=19 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180420010642/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/pawan-kalyan-anna-lezhneva-baby-boy-mark-shankar-pawanovich-1076511-2017-11-03 |archive-date=20 April 2018 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web|date=17 December 2020|title=Spotted: Pawan Kalyan's wife Anna Lezhneva clicked with children at Hyderabad Airport|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/spotted-pawan-kalyans-wife-anna-lezhneva-clicked-with-children-at-hyderabad-airport/articleshow/79772535.cms|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210430045230/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/spotted-pawan-kalyans-wife-anna-lezhneva-clicked-with-children-at-hyderabad-airport/articleshow/79772535.cms|archive-date=30 April 2021|access-date=15 July 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}} Outside of his career, Kalyan holds a black belt in Karate and is an avid reader.{{Cite web |last=Prakash |first=B. V. S. |date=2024-06-10 |title=Pawan Kalyan, a karate maestro |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/tabloid/hyderabad-chronicle/pawan-kalyan-a-karate-maestro-898106 |access-date=2024-06-22 |website=Deccan Chronicle |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2021-09-02 |title=How Kalyan became Pawan Kalyan because of his love for martial arts. On Throwback Thursday |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/how-kalyan-became-pawan-kalyan-because-of-his-love-for-martial-arts-on-throwback-thursday-1848477-2021-09-02 |access-date=2024-06-22 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=22 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240622071405/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/how-kalyan-became-pawan-kalyan-because-of-his-love-for-martial-arts-on-throwback-thursday-1848477-2021-09-02 |url-status=live }}

{{Main|Pawan Kalyan filmography}}

In 2009, during his campaign for the Praja Rajyam Party, Pawan Kalyan reportedly suffered bouts of vomiting due to severe exhaustion and high heat waves. He later collapsed during a rally and was hospitalised.{{cite web|url= https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/2009/Apr/14/pawan-kalyan-unconscious-hospitalized-40979.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com | title=Pawan Kalyan unconscious, hospitalized | date=15 May 2012 }}

In April 2019, during an intense election campaign, Pawan Kalyan suffered from sunstroke and dehydration. After campaigning in Vizianagaram, he felt unwell upon arriving at Vijayawada Airport, leading to vomiting & dizziness. He was treated for dehydration at a nearby clinic and advised to rest, leading to the cancellation of scheduled events in Sattenapalli and Tenali.{{cite web|url= https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/vijayawada/2019/Apr/06/pawan-kalyan-suffers-sunstroke-hospitalised-1960858.html|title= Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan suffers sunstroke, hospitalised|date= 6 April 2019}}{{cite web|url= https://www.thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/pawan-kalyan-fell-ill-due-to-sun-stroke-518456|title= Pawan Kalyan suffers heatstroke during election campaign, admitted to hospital|date= 5 April 2019}}

In October 2024, Pawan Kalyan undertook an 11-day purification ritual at the Tirumala temple in response to allegations concerning the sanctity of the Tirupati laddu prasadam. During this period, he was observed experiencing breathlessness, nausea and fatigue, likely due to his pre-existing health conditions, including asthma and back pain. Despite these challenges, he completed the ritual, underscoring his commitment to addressing the concerns and preserving the sanctity of the religious offerings.{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/out-of-breath-pawan-kalyan-seen-struggling-as-he-visits-tirupati-signs-declaration-form-for-non-hindus-with-daughter-polena-watch-9599790/lite/ |title=Out of breath Pawan Kalyan seen struggling as he visits Tirupati, signs declaration form for non-Hindus with daughter Polena. Watch |date=2 October 2024 }}

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