In the crowded Telugu horror thriller space where jump scares and predictable hauntings are the norm, Kishkindhapuri is a breath of fresh air. Directed by Koushik Pegallapati and produced by Shine Screens, this 2025 release is a tight 125 minutes of mystery, supernatural chills and a narrative that lingers in the psychological shadows. Starring Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas and Anupama Parameswaran, the film released on September 12 and has an ‘A’ certificate – a clear indication it’s not for the faint-hearted or the young.
The story revolves around a group of thrill-seekers who go on what they think is a fun ghost tour in an abandoned radio station on the outskirts of a forgotten town. What starts as a lighthearted banter among friends soon spirals into terror when they unknowingly disturb a malevolent spirit tied to the station’s dark past. Bellamkonda’s character Arjun, an urbanite dragged into the adventure by his adventurous girlfriend (played with poise by Anupama) becomes the reluctant anchor as the group unravels secrets broadcast over the radio waves from decades ago. The title Kishkindhapuri is a nod to the mythical Kishkindha from the Ramayana and hints at themes of exile and vengeance, making the plot more than just a standard ghost story.
Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas gives his best performance yet, shedding his action hero image to play a man grappling with fear and regret. His transition from disbelief to vulnerability is impressive, especially in the second half where the radio station’s corridors become a character in themselves. Anupama Parameswaran is the empathetic heart of the ensemble, her expressive eyes convey a range of emotions – from curiosity to dread – without overplaying the damsel in distress. Supporting actors add flavor: Tanikella Bharani brings gravitas as the haunted local historian and Hyper Aadi provides comic relief at the right time. Makrand Deshpande’s enigmatic presence as the tour guide hints at more lore but his arc feels slightly underdeveloped.
Technically, Kishkindapuri scores big time. Cinematographer Chinmay Salaskar’s use of shadows and wide angles makes the station feel eerie and every creak and flicker feels real. Chaitan Bharadwaj’s score builds unease with discordant strings and retro radio static and Sam C.S.’s background scores amplify the fear without being bombastic. The VFX, especially the spirit’s manifestation through distorted broadcasts are seamless and innovative and not cheesy like most of the regional horrors.
But for all its strengths, the film isn’t perfect. The pacing falters in the first act, where the backstories are dumped through clunky flashbacks and it tests the viewer’s patience. Some subplots like the personal tensions among the group feel unnecessary and dilute the core mystery. The gore is restrained but visceral and might not appeal to casual horror fans looking for mindless scares. Still, these are minor issues in a genre that is often criticized for lacking substance.
Overall, Kishkindhapuri is a rare horror film that prioritizes story over spectacle and is a thoughtful exploration of grief and the ghosts we carry within. It’s a film that lingers long after the credits roll like a late night radio whisper. Fans of cerebral horror like The Conjuring or Oculus will love it and Telugu cinema fans get to see Bellamkonda’s growth. Rating: 3.5/5. If you are up for a tour that turns terrifying book your ticket—but leave the kids at home.