Telusu Kada: A Contemporary Romance Drama with a Twist
A promising actor's journey to reclaim his stardom.
Rating: 2.5/5
Duration: 02 hours 16 minutes
Genre: Romantic Drama
Release Date: 17-10-2025
Starring: Siddhu Jonnalagadda, Raashii Khanna, Srinidhi Shetty, Harsha Chemudu, Rohini, Sanjay Swaroop, Annapoornamma, and others.
Directed by Neeraja Kona, a former costume designer, this film marks her directorial debut.
Produced by T. G. Vishwa Prasad and Vivek Kuchibhotla under the banner of People Media Factory, the film features music composed by Thaman S.
Siddhu Jonnalagadda, after his successful ventures DJ Tillu and Tillu Square, faced a setback with his film Jack, where his portrayal of 'Tillu' received mixed responses. Now, he joins forces with a new director, Neeraja Kona, to revive his box office success. But will this collaboration pay off?
The film revolves around Varun (Siddhu Jonnalagadda), an orphan who strives for a happy family with a wife and children. However, his girlfriend, Raaga (Srinidhi Shetty), opposes the traditional concept of marriage and relationships. After their breakup, Varun marries Anjali (Raashii Khanna), but they discover their inability to conceive. As the story unfolds, Raaga re-enters Varun's life, creating a complex dynamic with Anjali. The film explores their intertwined relationships and the decisions they make regarding having children.
Performance Highlights:
- Siddhu Jonnalagadda shines as Varun, delivering a convincing performance, especially in his comedic timing and dialogue delivery, successfully shedding the shadow of his 'Tillu' character.
- Raashii Khanna and Srinidhi Shetty captivate as Anjali and Raaga, respectively, sharing a natural chemistry with Siddhu.
- Harsha Chemudu excels as Varun's best friend, providing comic relief.
- Veteran actress Annapoornamma delivers a heartwarming performance in a brief yet impactful role.
Technical Mastery:
- Thaman's music is a standout, with two chart-topping songs enhancing the film's appeal.
- V. S. Gnana Shekar's cinematography shines, particularly in the flashback scenes between Varun and Raaga.
- Production design and values by People Media Factory are commendable, supporting the director's vision.
What Works:
1. Two captivating songs that elevate the film's mood.
2. Relatable dialogues that resonate with the audience.
3. Beautifully crafted moments that leave a lasting impression.
4. Solid performances by the lead actors.
5. A fresh and contemporary conflict point.
Room for Improvement:
1. Some dialogues feel excessive and could have been toned down.
2. Limited appeal due to its urban-centric theme and modern conflict, which may not resonate with a broader audience.
3. Repetitive sequences that could have been edited more tightly.
4. Unnecessary slow-motion shots that disrupt the film's flow.
Analysis:
In an era where relationships are constantly evolving, Neeraja Kona presents a story that reflects the confusion and challenges faced by the current generation. The film's authenticity is its strength, but it may also limit its appeal. While it offers a unique perspective on relationships, it might not cater to traditional expectations. The film's humor, dialogues, and performances work in its favor, but the slow-motion shots and certain dialogue choices feel out of place.
Neeraja Kona's writing and directorial debut is commendable, but the film's limited reach may hinder its success. Telusu Kada is a decent watch, especially for those who appreciate contemporary romance dramas. But will it satisfy the masses? That's the question that lingers.
Final Verdict:
Telusu Kada is fairly engaging, but its niche appeal may leave some viewers wanting more.
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