In the coming months, classic Telugu films featuring iconic stars like Ravi Teja, Nani, Mahesh Babu, Chiranjeevi, and Pawan Kalyan are making a comeback to theaters. Some of these films will be re-released to celebrate the birthdays of these stars, while others aim to captivate audiences in the absence of major new releases. Here’s a list of these cherished films and their re-release dates:
- Ikramarkudu (2006) – July 27 Directed by SS Rajamouli, this film features Ravi Teja in a dual role as a thief and a righteous cop, with Anushka Shetty co-starring. The movie, which was later remade in Hindi as Rowdy Rathore with Akshay Kumar, explores the life of a thief who discovers he has a look-alike when a young girl mistakenly identifies him as her father.
- Yeto Vellipoyindhi Manasu (2012) – August 2 Gautham Vasudev Menon’s romantic drama stars Nani and Samantha Ruth Prabhu. Despite mixed reviews upon its initial release, the film has gained cult status over time. It depicts the journey of a man and his childhood sweetheart as they navigate love and life together, complemented by Ilaiyaraaja’s memorable music.
- Okkadu (2003) – August 8 Directed by Gunasekhar, this sports drama features Mahesh Babu, Bhumika Chawla, and Prakash Raj. Scheduled to release a day before Mahesh Babu’s birthday, the film follows a state-level kabaddi player who shelters a girl on the run from a dangerous faction leader. It marked a significant breakthrough in Mahesh’s career.
- Murari (2001) – August 9 Krishna Vamsi’s film, featuring Mahesh Babu and Sonali Bendre, will be re-released on Mahesh Babu’s birthday. The story revolves around a family cursed by a goddess, where every 48 years, they lose an heir. Mahesh Babu’s portrayal of Murari showcases his perseverance and determination.
- Indra (2002) – August 22 Directed by B. Gopal, this film stars Chiranjeevi, Aarthi Agarwal, and Sonali Bendre. As the highest-grossing Telugu film at the time of its release, Indra explores the violent conflict between two rival clans in Rayalaseema and advocates for non-violence in a tumultuous world.
- Shiva (1989) – August 29 Ram Gopal Varma’s directorial debut, featuring Nagarjuna and Amala Akkineni, will be re-released on Nagarjuna’s birthday. The film’s exploration of student exploitation and crowd psychology marked a turning point in Indian cinema.
- Mass (2004) – August 29 Another film releasing on Nagarjuna’s birthday is Raghava Lawrence’s Mass. Starring Jyotika alongside Nagarjuna, the film follows an orphan who seeks vengeance against the mafia for killing his friend. It remains one of Nagarjuna’s most successful films.
- Gabbar Singh (2012) – September 2 Directed by Harish Shankar and inspired by Salman Khan’s Dabangg, this film stars Pawan Kalyan and Shruti Haasan. The story revolves around a police officer’s mission to dismantle a corrupt politician’s empire. This blockbuster will be re-released on Pawan Kalyan’s birthday.
These re-releases offer a chance for fans to revisit these cinematic gems on the big screen, reliving the magic and excitement of some of Telugu cinema’s most memorable moments.