The Telangana backdrop has become a popular trend in Tollywood, and another film in the genre, titled Shanarthi, was officially launched on Friday at Rama Naidu Studios in Hyderabad. Naga Durga, who recently made her Tamil debut with Love Oh Love, is playing the female lead. She has also made her Telugu debut with another Telangana-backdrop film, Idupu Kayitham, which is currently under production.
Naga Durga is paired opposite Akhil Raj, who impressed audiences with Raju Weds Rambai. Popular director Sampath Nandi’s production house Sampath Nandi Teamworks, in association with KV Sridhar Reddy of Sri Dhanalakshmi Productions, is jointly producing the film. The project is presented by Aditya Movies and brings together a promising young team.
Akhil Raj and Naga Durga are playing the lead roles. Known for her lively presence in popular Telangana folk songs, Naga Durga has been getting offers in Telugu cinema. Raj Ganesh Uppunooti, a protégé of Sampath Nandi, is making his directorial debut with this project.
The film has been titled Shanarthi, an intriguing Telangana term traditionally used as a form of greeting. The tagline ‘A Tale of Culture’ hints at the film’s thematic focus. The title poster makes a striking first impression, blending cultural symbolism with an intriguing visual design.
Sampath Nandi, known for his strengths as a writer, storyteller and showrunner, has been associated with successful stories and franchises, including the Odela franchise. His involvement with Shanarthi adds further interest and anticipation to the project.
Adding further musical strength to the film is composer Suresh Bobbili, whose distinctive musical style has earned appreciation. His compositions are expected to complement the film’s rural setting while enhancing its emotional depth and regional flavour.
The film was launched on Friday at Rama Naidu Studios in Hyderabad in the presence of prominent film personalities and the core team. The makers are expected to commence shooting soon. Further details about the cast, crew and other aspects of Shanarthi will be announced shortly.