The Telugu film industry is celebrating the release of “Sankranthiki Vasthunnam,” a family-friendly action-comedy that hit theaters on January 14, 2025. Directed by the talented Anil Ravipudi and headlined by superstar Venkatesh Daggubati, this film arrives just in time for the festive Sankranthi season. With a stellar cast, a compelling storyline, and a vibrant setting, “Sankranthiki Vasthunnam” is making waves not just at the box office but also among critics and audiences alike.
An Overview of “Sankranthiki Vasthunnam”
The film unfolds around ACP YD Raju (played by Venkatesh), a retired IPS officer whose peaceful life with his loving and strong-headed wife, Bhagyalakshmi (Aishwarya Rajesh), is disrupted by the arrival of his former girlfriend, Meenakshi (Meenakshi Chaudhary), now a serving IPS officer. She seeks Raju’s expertise in a high-stakes kidnapping case, pulling him back into the field.
Bhagyalakshmi, a dynamic character, demands to join the mission, igniting a humorous tug-of-war as she struggles to protect her marriage while helping solve the case. This setup, peppered with witty dialogues, action-packed sequences, and heartfelt moments, gives the film its winning combination of mass appeal and intelligent storytelling.
Star Cast and Team Behind the Magic
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast:
- Venkatesh Daggubati as ACP YD Raju
- Aishwarya Rajesh as Bhagyalakshmi, Raju’s wife
- Meenakshi Chaudhary as Meenakshi IPS
- Rajendra Prasad in a comic role as the landlord, Venkateswarulu
- Srinivasa Reddy as Raju’s loyal friend
- Sai Kumar as the comical PC Manikya Rao
Directed by Anil Ravipudi, known for his knack for delivering feel-good entertainers, the film is produced by Sri Venkateswara Creations. The music is composed by Bheems Ceciroleo, whose peppy tracks have already climbed the charts. Cinematography by Sameer Reddy beautifully captures the vibrant Indian festive spirit, with key sequences shot in scenic locations like Hyderabad, Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Kasaragod.
Soundtrack Creates Festive Vibes
The musical score plays a significant role in amplifying the film’s festive appeal. The soundtrack consists of five songs, all of which have resonated well with audiences. Notable tracks include:
- “Godari Gattu,” a high-energy celebration song
- “Meenu,” a romantic ballad between Venkatesh and Meenakshi
- “Blockbuster Pongal,” which captures the festive fervor
Composed by Bheems Ceciroleo, the music successfully blends tradition and modernity, setting the tone for the movie. The audio rights were acquired by T-Series, further testifying to the film’s hype.
Sankranthiki Vasthunnam IMDb Rating
As of its release date, “Sankranthiki Vasthunnam” holds an impressive IMDb rating of 7.8/10 based on nearly 10,000 early reviews. This strong rating reflects the audience’s enthusiasm for the film’s balanced mix of comedy, action, and family drama.
Fans particularly praise Venkatesh’s performance as a retired yet lively ACP Raju who strikes a perfect balance between intensity and humor. Critics have also highlighted the chemistry between Venkatesh and his co-stars, especially Aishwarya Rajesh, who brings depth to her role as Bhagyalakshmi, while Meenakshi Chaudhary impresses as a courageous IPS officer.
In addition to acting, the film’s clever screenplay, sharp humor, and engaging action sequences have earned widespread acclaim. This positive reception is expected to boost its box office collections significantly.
Reception Among Critics and Audiences
Critics have unanimously praised “Sankranthiki Vasthunnam” for its light-hearted approach to serious subjects. The film manages to entertain while subtly exploring the dynamics of marital trust, professional ethics, and duty.
- The Times of India gave the film 3.5/5 stars, lauding its comedy sequences and Venkatesh’s seasoned performance.
- Indian Express called it a “quintessential festive treat” with a unique blend of family drama and action.
- Audience reactions on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram are filled with praise, with many calling it a “perfect Pongal blockbuster.”
Production and Behind-the-Scenes
The film was produced on a grand scale by Dil Raju, a producer with a history of creating blockbuster hits. The production began in mid-2024, with extensive shooting schedules held across scenic locations. Anil Ravipudi, who is known for keeping the crew at ease during hectic schedules, credited the actors for their dedication to their roles.
Festive Box Office Expectations
Given its Sankranthi release and strong word-of-mouth publicity, “Sankranthiki Vasthunnam” is poised to perform exceptionally well at the box office. The combination of a relatable family theme, star power, and the festive atmosphere adds to the film’s appeal. Early estimates suggest that the movie might enter the ₹100-crore club by the end of its first week, a significant milestone for a regional film.
A Perfect Family Entertainer
Anil Ravipudi has crafted “Sankranthiki Vasthunnam” to appeal to all sections of the audience. With moments that tug at the heartstrings, scenes that make you laugh out loud, and plenty of high-octane action, the film ensures a rollercoaster experience for viewers of all ages.
The highlight, however, remains Venkatesh’s portrayal of ACP YD Raju. Known for seamlessly blending action with humor, Venkatesh is in his element here, reminding audiences why he remains a top draw in Telugu cinema.
Conclusion
“Sankranthiki Vasthunnam” is a true festive spectacle that captures the spirit of Sankranthi through its engaging narrative, well-rounded characters, and vibrant visuals. With a strong IMDb rating of 7.8/10, favorable reviews from critics, and a massive fan following, the film is set to be one of the most memorable blockbusters of 2025.
Families flocking to theaters this festive season are guaranteed not just entertainment but an emotional connection through this delightful story of love, duty, and trust. “Sankranthiki Vasthunnam” has all the makings of a festive classic, leaving both critics and audiences eagerly anticipating more such feel-good films in the years to come.
