Latest news with #Sumanth
India Today
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
How actor Sumanth from Akkineni family carved his niche in Telugu films
Telugu cinema today is a powerhouse of reach, marketing, and visibility. But behind the glitter is a tightly guarded industry where legacy, family connections, and mass appeal often dictate an actor's trajectory. For someone like Sumanth, coming from the Akkineni family, the expectations were clear: become a bankable commercial star. But his journey has taken a more nuanced commercial debut and the pressure of legacyHis debut film 'Prema Katha' was intended to be a strong industry launch. It was backed by Ram Gopal Varma, the same filmmaker who redefined Telugu cinema with 'Shiva' for Nagarjuna and later made waves with 'Satya'. Naturally, for 'Prema Katha', expectations were high. The film did decently at the box office, but the weight of the legacy remained. Early outings like 'Yuvakudu' and 'Satyam' carried that burden. While 'Satyam' turned out to be a breakthrough, what followed were several attempts to crack the mass-hero space with films like 'Gowri', 'Dhana 51', and 'Mahanandi', all aimed at positioning him as a commercial lead.A shift towards stories with soulThe turning point came with director Sekhar Kammula's 'Godavari' in 2006. It wasn't just a hit; it reshaped how audiences viewed Sumanth. He wasn't a loud, larger-than-life figure. Instead, the role placed him in a space where performance was not about dominating the frame, but about drawing viewers in. Little did people anticipate that the gentler tone would go on to shape some of his most enduring 'Golconda High School', directed by Mohan Krishna Indraganti, he played a cricket coach with conviction and vulnerability, a rare blend in Telugu cinema's sports dramas. 'Malli Raava', directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, offered a layered romantic narrative that explored love with a kind of patience not often seen in the charm of breezy storytellingSumanth does not appear in films frequently, but when he does, his work carries a natural ease. His choices are sincere, sometimes underwhelming at the box office, but often appreciated in retrospect. Whether it is 'Satyam's' emotionally conflicted lyricist, 'Godavari's' mellow lover and aspiring politician, or the restrained teacher in 'Anaganaga', his characters often bring a sense of stillness that stands out in a high-volume industry.'Anaganaga': Another step in his evolutionIn many ways, his recent film 'Anaganaga' feels like a summing-up of what Sumanth has grown into as an actor. Set against the backdrop of storytelling, education, and parenting, the film did not rely on conventional tropes. His role as a teacher navigating layered emotions and narratives had a quiet strength. It was the kind of performance that does not demand attention but gradually earns it. The film's understated tone aligned well with his sensibilities, making 'Anaganaga' feel less like a performance and more like an extension of himself. It reaffirmed that his strength lies not in dominating the screen, but in allowing the story to breathe around the poster: #Anaganaga is now streaming on @etvwin – and it's already touching hearts!Watch now: it. Cry with it. Fall in love with it. #Anaganaga - A Win Original FilmNow streaming with 4K and Dolby audio only on @etvwin@isumanth @rakeshreddy1224 ETV Win (@etvwin) May 14, 2025Backed by story, not stardomThis phase has not been without its missteps. Films like 'Boni', 'Naruda Donoruda', 'Subrahmanyapuram', and 'Kapatadhaari' did not quite land, either critically or commercially. However, many of these came from taking risks on unconventional scripts. That has been a recurring pattern with Sumanth - not chasing trends, but selecting projects that resonate with him. In an industry that often depends on formula, his choices stand out for being personal, even when they do not entirely succeed.
Pink Villa
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Anaganaga OTT verdict: Sumanth's Telugu family drama debuts online, check how netizens are reacting to it
Anaganaga, starring Sumanth Kumar, had a direct OTT release on May 15. With its digital debut, viewers tuned in to watch the movie on ETV Win. Since its release, social media has been buzzing with reviews of the film. If you haven't watched it yet, take a look at these reactions from netizens before making your decision. Actor Sai Dharam Tej shared on X that one of his favorite films of Sumanth is Malli Raava, but Anaganaga offered a completely different experience. He felt the film touched the heart in a unique way. According to him, the emotions portrayed by Sumanth and the child actor Master Viharsh left a lasting impression. He also praised Sunny Sanjay for the brilliant writing and direction. Meanwhile, viewers who recently watched Anaganaga shared that the film left them teary-eyed, especially towards the end. Many said they deeply connected with the father-son bond portrayed on screen. They appreciated the film's emotional depth and called the writing strong and the direction by Sunny Sanjay heartfelt. Some viewers felt Anaganaga spoke volumes about the flaws in the current education system. Though they admitted a few scenes were predictable, the sincerity in the storytelling and performances stood out. Sumanth and child actor Viharsh received praise for their natural acting, particularly in the emotional climax. Audiences expressed surprise that the film didn't opt for a theatrical release, considering its quality. They called it a beautiful movie and another gem in Sumanth's filmography. The emotional impact, especially from the characters Vyaas and Ram, lingered with many. Several also applauded the supporting cast and called Sunny Sanjay a promising new voice in Telugu cinema. Many felt ETV Win had added another strong title to its slate. Check out the reactions below: Anaganaga features Sumanth Kumar, Kajal Choudhary, and Master Viharsh in lead roles, with B.V.S. Ravi, Anu Hasan, Rakesh Rachakonda, Avasarala Srinivas, and Kaumudi Nemani playing key supporting characters. The film is written and directed by Sunny Sanjay and is produced by Rakesh Reddy Gadam and Rudra Madireddy.
News18
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Anaganaga Review: Sumanth's Fans Give Thumbs Up To Film's ‘Heart-Touching' Climax
Last Updated: Anaganaga explores the flaws and limitations of the Indian education system. Anaganaga, the Telugu-language family drama film featuring Sumanth, Kajal Choudhary and Viharsh in the lead, has been receiving love from all corners. Helmed by Sunny Sanjay, it premiered on May 15 on the OTT platform ETV Win and beautifully explores the flaws and limitations of the Indian education system, advocating for empathy and innovative teaching methods for the young students of the country. The film follows the story of Vyas, a schoolteacher who believes in the power of storytelling to engage his students and create a more meaningful learning environment. It explores his journey as he battles opposition to his teaching methods, struggles to balance his family life and eventually confronts a personal health issue while fighting for his vision of a better education system. Anaganaga has received positive reactions from audiences following its digital release. X (formerly Twitter) users have been praising the movie for its emotional drama that resonates with viewers. Many appreciated the film's important message, while others lauded the cast's performances. Showering his love for the family drama, an X user wrote, 'Such a beautiful film. Must watch." Such a beautiful film 😭❤️Must watch 🥺 @iSumanth #Anaganaga — A J A Y (@Ajay_Kumar_6392) May 17, 2025 Another one commented, 'If life gives us difficulties now, then it will be real life. When we face those difficulties and stand firm, then a story will emerge. The story you need is already in your life. Some Stories will Turn in Life, Some Life's Will Turn as Stories #Anaganaga." If life gives us difficulties now, then it will be real life. When we face those difficulties and stand firm, then a story will emerge. The story you need is already in your life. Some Stories will Turn in LifeSome Life's Will Turn as Stories #Anaganaga — Vinay Krishna (@V_in_Sha) May 17, 2025 A fan remarked, 'An emotional ride . Climax was heart-touching, child actor nailed it. Sumanth was perfect as the father, heroine did great too. Beautiful writing, soulful BGM. Kudos to the director & thanks to @iSumanth for picking this gem." An emotional ride 😭😭🤍. Climax was heart-touching, child actor nailed it. Sumanth was perfect as the father, heroine did great too. Beautiful writing, soulful BGM. Kudos to the director🙇♂️ & thanks to @iSumanth 👏for picking this gem. #AnaganagaonETVWin #AnaganagaReview — Ramesh (@rameshuuuuuuuu) May 15, 2025 A comment read, 'Must watch A Beautiful tale of Vyas sir and his Simba. Direction, music and emotions are the soul of Anaganaga Sumanth Anna just lived in his role as Vyas and Viharsh as RAM was just love." Must watch A Beautiful tale of Vyas sir and his Simba. Direction, music and emotions are the soul of #Anaganaga Sumanth anna just lived in his role as Vyas and Viharsh as RAM was just ❤️❤️— VK (@iamvamsi95) May 17, 2025 Another account remarked, 'Just now completed watching this Anaganaga with zero expectations. Came out with a heavy heart. Very great narration of a story about today's educational system." Just now completed to Watch this #Anaganaga with zero expectations. Came out with a heavy heart . Very great narration of story about todays our educational system. Do watch this movie on @etvwin. — 𝙱𝚞𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚞𝚙🦋 (@NaziaSulthanSh2) May 15, 2025 Talking about Sumanth, he will be next seen in Mahendragiri Varahi, which is currently in its post-production. First Published: May 17, 2025, 13:39 IST
India Today
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Anaganaga review: A decent film about life beyond marks
Stories are only for entertainment – are they though? Education is a serious business. But, what kind of business? Education, in most setups, equals mind, mug-up and marks. Then what's the word for reading, writing, learning and understanding? A child's education is always gauged by the marks they score in exams, but in this race to score more, most children lose their curiosity and intrigue. Yet, in almost every childhood memory, there is one teacher who keeps their innocent sense of intrigue intact and stands apart from the meaning 'Once upon a time', is a story about one such teacher who weaves interesting stories to ensure that his students don't simply mug up theories only to forget them later, but understand concepts and retain the learning. The film, streaming on the OTT platform ETV Win, has been written and directed by Sunny Sanjay and features Sumanth, Kajal Choudhary and Master Viharsh in the film follows Vyas Sir (Sumanth), a primary school teacher loved by students but not so loved by the management for his style of teaching. He is married to Bhagi (Kajal), who is also the principal of the school. Their son Ram (Viharsh), who studies at the same school, struggles with his marks and is unable to handle the pressure from his teachers. Unable to cope, Ram fails five subjects in his exam and is humiliated by his own mother in front of the entire school. What does Vyas Sir do to help his son? Can Ram overcome his problems? What happens next as the stakes get higher and emotions even more intense? The answers to these questions and more form the core of the Sunny Sanjay deserves credit for penning such an insightful story, tastefully garnished with emotion. The film, in parts, is reminiscent of the Nani-starrer 'Jersey' for the way it leans into the emotions of a father-son bond. However, this story is not flawless. While the first half shines a light on the father-son bond, problems in the education system, a teacher's innovation, and quite simply the children, the second half derails into a melodramatic tale of a seemingly failed despite these flaws, delivers an impactful film that raises several questions about the Indian education system. Not listening to a child's problems is the biggest concern – and that's what the director attempts to highlight, along with a solution: that teachers must be kind and Sumanth delivers well as the loved and respected Vyas Sir. He brings a certain innocence to the screen, evoking the charm of everyone's favourite teacher. Although there are moments of monotony now and then, he leaves a lasting impact with the Viharsh deserves a special mention, especially for his climax monologue. That scene – and this little bundle of talent – is a definite tearjerker. Kajal Choudhary's performance, however, is underwhelming. Her character had all the potential to raise the emotional stakes of the film, but didn't quite get filmmaking style of 'Anaganaga' leaves behind a mixed bag of opinions. While some might call it outdated, others might call it nostalgic. The music, cinematography, editing, colour grading, set design, dialogues – all departments had a distinct early 2000s touch. Some moments might even remind viewers of ETV's daily soaps. Even though it leaves some room for disappointment, the film as a whole pleases the films have previously explored the flaws of the education system – 'Taare Zameen Par', '3 Idiots', 'Super 30', 'Hindi Medium', the Kannada film 'Drona', the Tamil film 'Vaathi', and more. Each time these films are released, they reignite discussions about the Indian education system. Now, 'Anaganaga' also has the potential to join this club – but will this film, at last, bring about real change?Only time will tell.
The Hindu
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Sumanth discusses ‘Anaganaga', his 26-year career, and the joy of working with kids
'Good roles are rare, not the work,' says Sumanth, who will next be seen in Anaganaga, a heartwarming Telugu film streaming on ETV Win from May 15. On a laid-back afternoon at his Hyderabad home, Sumanth is relaxed and chatty. Fresh from a Thunderbolts screening, he is the kind who spends hours at the movies, either in a theatre or at home. 'I watch films or series for four to five hours a day. I just watched HIT 3 too,' he says. If he is not watching them, he is reading scripts. 'Don't be fooled by the books around; lately, it's been all scripts. I prefer reading one over listening to a narration before saying yes to a project.' Since his debut in 1999, Sumanth has stuck to his script-first instinct. 'People used to be surprised I even asked for scripts. But I have always felt they are essential, especially in films that are dialogue-heavy, which most of ours are, except the big spectacle ones like KGF, RRRor Baahubali.' He says it usually takes him about 10–12 pages to decide if a script has promise. 'Honestly, it has been a 10% success rate since my grandfather's (Akkineni Nageswara Rao) time. I read around 30 scripts and maybe three or four are worth it. I only agree when I believe in the script and trust the director. Luckily, I am not in a place where I need to work just for money.' Anaganaga, adapted from the Marathi film Eka Kaay Zala, came to him via producers Rakesh Reddy Gadam and Rudra Madireddy, and ETV Win. 'At first, I was not sure. I am not usually up for remakes, especially now when audiences can just stream originals. But three months later, they returned with a reworked version that really landed. It reminded me of how I felt when I read Malli Raava.' He plays Vyas, a school teacher who turns tricky lessons into stories for students with learning challenges. 'He is criticised for his methods but sticks to them. There is also a lovely father-son thread woven in.' Filmed in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam, Anaganaga puts Sumanth back in a school setting after Golconda High School, but this time, he is playing a father, a first in his career. 'I do not know why I have not played one before. It was great fun shooting with the kids. I am an introvert, but around them, I can be a complete goofball. It helped the scenes feel real.' He is also clear about playing age-appropriate roles. 'The lead actress, Kajal Choudhary, plays a school principal in her 30s. She's younger in real life, so I actually asked if they could cast someone older. I have always pushed for mature roles and against being paired opposite actresses far younger.' Anaganaga was always meant to be a digital film, not a theatrical one. 'It is an emotional story, we have made something warm and genuine.' Up next is Mahendragiri Varahi, a supernatural action thriller directed by Santossh Jagarlapudi. 'It is big on scale, with VFX and a proper theatrical release. ThinkVirupakshaor Karthikeya. I play a sceptic who enters a town plagued by strange happenings linked to Goddess Varahi.' After playing the antagonist in Sita Ramam, did he get more grey-shaded roles? 'Surprisingly, no,' he laughs. 'But I have always said I am open to playing villains.' Now 26 years in the industry, Sumanth says he is passionate but not obsessed. 'Acting is all I know and I give it my all when something excites me. But when I am not working, I am perfectly content being with my pets or just watching a film. I like my peace.'
