DIVYA DELHI : Telugu cinema has entered 2026 with renewed hopes after a largely underwhelming 2025 that failed to deliver major box-office blockbusters. With several big-ticket releases lined up for the Sankranti season, the industry is looking toward star-driven films to revive audience enthusiasm. Following Prabhas’ The Raja Saab, Megastar Chiranjeevi has now joined the festive box-office race with one of the most anticipated releases of the year — Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu (MSVPG). Directed by Anil Ravipudi, the film stars Nayanthara as the female lead and is billed as a slick action-comedy entertainer. The film carries high expectations, especially as Anil Ravipudi was also at the helm of Sankranthiki Vasthunam, the only major success during the competitive Sankranti 2025 release window. Industry observers recall that while films like Game Changer, Daaku Maharaaj, and Sankranthiki Vasthunam hit theatres within days of each other last year, only Ravipudi’s directorial emerged victorious. The trailer of MSVPG promises the return of Chiranjeevi’s much-loved “vintage megastar” avatar, blending action, comedy, drama, and emotional moments. The film also features a special cameo by Venkatesh and includes Catherine Tresa, Sachin Khedekar, and Sudev Nair in pivotal roles. Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu is a crucial film for Chiranjeevi, particularly after the box-office failure of his previous release, Bhola Shankar, which collected only ₹42.25 crore worldwide. Fans are hopeful that MSVPG will mark a strong comeback for the megastar and help him regain box-office momentum. The film is set to hit theatres on Monday, and LIVE updates on reviews, ratings, and audience reactions are expected to follow throughout the day.
