Raakaasa arrives in theatres at exactly the right time. When Telugu cinema’s summer slate is packed with big-budget spectacles and intense dramas, here comes a film that simply wants you to laugh, enjoy, and leave the theatre with a smile on your face — and it delivers on that promise with surprising confidence. Backed by producer Niharika Konidela who has already proven her eye for commercial entertainers with Committee Kurrollu, and fronted by the reliably charming Sangeeth Sobhan, Raakaasa is a breezy comedy fantasy that earns its place as one of the more enjoyable theatrical experiences this season. Debutant director Manasa Sharma steps in with a clear vision and the energy to match it, making this a film well worth your weekend.
Raakaasa is a fun, light-hearted Telugu comedy fantasy built on Sangeeth Sobhan’s effortless comic timing and a beautifully crafted fort set. The second half is where the film truly comes alive — with laugh-out-loud moments, engaging adventure sequences, and a genuine sense of entertainment that makes the ride thoroughly worthwhile. A solid summer watch for families and comedy lovers alike.
Language: Telugu
Genre: Comedy Fantasy
Runtime: 2 hrs 13 mins
Release Date: 03 April 2026
Age Rating: U/A
Cast & Crew
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Director | Manasa Sharma |
| Producers | Niharika Konidela, Umesh Kumar Bansal |
| Banner | Pink Elephant Pictures & Zee Studios |
| Music | Anudeep Dev |
| Cinematography | Raju Edurolu |
| Editing | Anwar Ali |
| Lead Actor | Sangeeth Sobhan |
| Lead Actress | Nayan Sarika |
| Supporting Cast | Getup Srinu, Vennela Kishore, Brahmaji, Tanikella Bharani, Ashish Vidyarthi, Annapurnamma, Raadhya |
The Plot
Eera Babu aka Veeru (Sangeeth Sobhan) returns to his village from the USA to marry his childhood sweetheart — only to find her already engaged to someone else. Heartbroken and a little drunk, he ends up spending the night at a deserted, supposedly haunted fort at the edge of the village. What secrets does the fort hold? Who — or what — lives within its walls? What unfolds next is a rollicking comic adventure as Veeru chases down the mystery behind the fort and the legends surrounding it.
Performances
Sangeeth Sobhan is the beating heart of Raakaasa. His comic timing is instinctive, his expressions in close-up shots are genuinely delightful, and he carries the film with the ease of someone completely in his element. The fort-set adventure sequences in the second half are where he truly shines — effortlessly blending physical comedy with warmth. After Mad and Mad Square, this is yet another feather in his cap.
Nayan Sarika brings charm and screen presence to her role. Getup Srinu gets a full-length role and makes the most of it — his mimicry and trademark timing land well throughout. Vennela Kishore adds some of the film’s funniest moments in the second half. Tanikella Bharani, Ashish Vidyarthi, and Annapurnamma all make their presence felt meaningfully in supporting parts.
Technical Craft
Raju Edurolu’s cinematography in the second half deserves special praise. He transforms a contained fort set into something expansive, atmospheric, and visually rich — no small feat given the budget constraints.
The production design team is one of the film’s quiet heroes. The fort set, complete with imaginative props and detailed staging during the adventure episode, looks and feels authentic. It is the kind of work that punches well above its budget.
Anwar Ali’s editing keeps Raakaasa tight and well-paced at 2 hours 13 minutes. The film never overstays its welcome, and the clean cuts between comedy and adventure keep the energy flowing.
Anudeep Dev’s music adds to the film’s lively atmosphere, though the background score occasionally runs a little loud in quieter moments.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- Sangeeth Sobhan’s charming, effortlessly funny lead performance
- A genuinely engaging and entertaining second half
- Impressive fort set and production design within a limited budget
- Strong comic support from Getup Srinu and Vennela Kishore
- Crisp editing that keeps the runtime tight and the pacing brisk
Weaknesses
- The first half takes some time to warm up
- Background score is slightly overpowering in a few scenes
- The climax plays it a touch safe
Final Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
Raakaasa is exactly the kind of summer entertainer Telugu cinema needs. Manasa Sharma, in a promising directorial debut, shows real creative instinct — particularly in how she brings the fort-set adventure to life and keeps the comedy grounded in character. Niharika Konidela once again backs a film that is made with genuine heart and commercial savvy in equal measure.
Sangeeth Sobhan proves here, for the third time running, that he is one of the most dependable and likeable young stars in Telugu cinema today. Raakaasa is not trying to reinvent the wheel — it is trying to give you a great time at the movies. And on that front, it succeeds comfortably. Grab your family, head to the nearest theatre, and enjoy.
What is the age rating of Raakaasa?
Raakaasa carries a U/A certificate, making it suitable for most general audiences across age groups.
Can we watch Raakaasa with kids and family?
Yes, absolutely. Raakaasa is a clean, wholesome comedy fantasy with no adult content.
Is Raakaasa based on a true story?
No, Raakaasa is entirely fictional. The story of a haunted village fort and the comedy surrounding it is a work of pure imagination, crafted for maximum entertainment.
