Introduction to Pelli SandaD
Pelli SandaD is a Telugu-language romantic drama that has gained widespread attention for its vibrant storytelling, picturesque visuals, and energetic music. Directed by Gowri Ronanki under the guidance of veteran director K. Raghavendra Rao, this film marks the acting debut of Roshan Meka and Sree Leela in lead roles. Released in 2021, Pelli SandaD is a modern retelling of the 1996 classic Pelli Sandadi, which was a blockbuster starring Srikanth. The remake aimed to capture the same charm and appeal as its predecessor, catering to the younger generation while retaining nostalgic elements for older audiences.
Pelli SandaD Cast & Crew
The film features a talented ensemble cast, bringing life to the script with their performances.
Main Cast
- Roshan Meka as Vasishta – The lead protagonist, showcasing a compelling romantic performance.
- Sree Leela as Sahasra – The female lead, who impresses with her charm and screen presence.
- Shivani Rajashekar – A crucial character adding depth to the story.
- Prakash Raj – A veteran actor known for his powerful performance.
- Rajendra Prasad – A highly respected figure in Telugu cinema playing a vital role.
- Rao Ramesh – Delivers a stellar performance in his supporting role.
- V.K. Naresh, Posani Krishna Murali, and Jhansi – Key supporting characters contributing to the film’s humor and emotional moments.
Crew
- Director: Gowri Ronanki
- Presented by: K. Raghavendra Rao
- Music Composer: M. M. Keeravani
- Cinematography: Sunil Kumar Nama
- Editor: Tammiraju
- Producers: Madhavi Kovelamudi, Shobhu Yarlagadda, Prasad Devineni
IMDb Rating & Audience Reception
As of now, Pelli SandaD holds an IMDb rating of 4.2/10, reflecting mixed audience reviews. While some viewers praised its vibrant cinematography, melodious songs, and nostalgic appeal, others felt the film followed a predictable storyline with certain outdated tropes.
However, fans of romantic dramas and commercial entertainers have found it visually appealing and enjoyable. The chemistry between Roshan and Sree Leela was well-received, with many appreciating Sree Leela’s expressive performance and dancing skills.
Pelli SandaD Movie Plot Overview
The storyline revolves around Vasishta (Roshan Meka), a passionate young man who falls in love with Sahasra (Sree Leela). The film follows the traditional romantic drama format, where the lovers face multiple hurdles before reaching their happy ending. The screenplay is infused with family emotions, light-hearted humor, grand wedding celebrations, and high-energy dance sequences.
The film also incorporates a sports backdrop, where Roshan Meka’s character showcases his love for basketball, adding a unique dimension to the narrative. While the film adheres to the tried-and-tested formula, the lavish sets, picturesque locations, and extravagant costumes make it a visual treat.
Budget & Box Office Collection
Budget
Pelli SandaD was made on a moderate budget of approximately ₹20-25 crores, investing significantly in set design, choreography, and grand wedding sequences to maintain a larger-than-life appeal.
Box Office Collection
Despite mixed reviews, the movie managed to perform decently at the box office, mainly due to the nostalgic factor associated with the 1996 classic. The film grossed around ₹25-30 crores worldwide, making it a moderate success. Its theatrical run benefited from the film’s festive release timing and the pre-release buzz surrounding Sree Leela’s performance.
Highlights & Key Takeaways from Pelli SandaD
1. Nostalgic Factor & K. Raghavendra Rao’s Touch
One of the major highlights of Pelli SandaD is the classic directorial influence of K. Raghavendra Rao, known for his glamorous and grand filmmaking style. The film retains the old-school Telugu cinema elements, ensuring a traditional yet visually rich experience.
2. Stunning Cinematography & Locations
Cinematographer Sunil Kumar Nama ensures that every frame of Pelli SandaD looks gorgeous. Shot in picturesque locations, the film features breathtaking backdrops that complement the narrative.
3. Foot-Tapping Music by M. M. Keeravani
The musical score by M. M. Keeravani is another standout feature, adding a melodic charm to the film. Songs like “Premante Enti,” “Bujji Bangaram,” and “Kannullo Nee Roopame” were well-received, especially for their catchy tunes and traditional beats.
4. Sree Leela’s Star-Making Performance
Although Roshan Meka played the male lead, it was Sree Leela who stole the show with her captivating screen presence, dance performances, and emotive acting. Her performance gained significant praise, setting the stage for her successful career in Telugu cinema.
5. Family-Friendly Entertainment
Despite some clichés, Pelli SandaD is a clean, family-friendly entertainer that resonates with audiences who enjoy feel-good romantic dramas with emotional depth and grand visuals.
Criticism & Areas of Improvement
While the film received appreciation for its visuals, music, and nostalgia, it also faced criticism for:
- Predictable Storyline: The plot follows a conventional romance template without offering any fresh twists.
- Over-the-Top Elements: Certain dramatic scenes felt exaggerated, making them less relatable to modern audiences.
- Weak Screenplay: The film could have benefitted from a stronger, more engaging screenplay to sustain audience interest.
- Comparisons with the Original: The 1996 Pelli Sandadi set high expectations, making the new version seem less impactful in comparison.
Final Verdict: Is Pelli SandaD Worth Watching?
Pelli SandaD is a visually stunning, musically rich, and nostalgia-driven romantic drama that caters mainly to fans of traditional Telugu cinema. While it may not break new ground in storytelling, it successfully delivers a feel-good experience with its grand sets, colorful cinematography, and melodious songs.
If you are looking for a light-hearted romantic entertainer with lavish visuals and catchy music, this film is definitely worth a watch!