Cast: Venkatesh, Aishwarya Rajesh, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Naresh, Sai Kumar, and others
Direction: Anil Ravipudi
Seasoned actor Venkatesh tries to rely on his comedic timing in Sankranthiki Vasthunam, as he finds himself caught between his wife (Aishwarya Rajesh) and ex-lover (Meenakshi Chaudhary). While his performance in romantic and family moments shines, the film’s outdated approach and reliance on recycled ideas diminish its impact.
The plot revolves around a Chief Minister (Naresh) who enlists a police officer (Meenakshi Chaudhary) to retrieve a kidnapped VIP. She, in turn, brings her ex-lover, former DGP (Venkatesh), into the mission, causing dramatic clashes with his wife and family. Unfortunately, this setup leads to predictable and exaggerated scenarios rather than genuine humor or excitement.
Director Anil Ravipudi leans heavily on tropes from Venkatesh’s past films like Sundara Kanda, Inlo Illalu Vantintlo Priyuralu, and Gharshana. The result feels more like a rehash than a fresh comedy. In an era where new-age directors are delivering innovative films like Jaati Ratnalu, this approach feels regressive, dragging Telugu cinema back to the 1990s.
The portrayal of the Chief Minister as a clown and other characters as caricatures further undermines the film. A fiery ex-DGP being reduced to a hapless individual unable to fight thugs dents Venkatesh’s heroic image. Forced comedy, including a repetitive "dead body" gag, only adds to the woes.
While Venkatesh delivers his usual charm with comic one-liners and expressions, the supporting cast, including Naresh and Upendra Limaye, often overact. Aishwarya Rajesh and Meenakshi Chaudhary perform adequately, but their roles lack depth. The song "Godari Gattu Meeda" is the sole redeeming aspect.
Director Anil Ravipudi must reinvent himself rather than relying on nostalgia and borrowed ideas. Ultimately, Sankranthiki Vasthunam feels like a half-baked, festival-time entertainer that offers little beyond nostalgia and surface-level comedy.
