Telugu cinema has often revisited the horror genre, but only a few films strike the right balance between scares, drama, and entertainment. Kishkindhapuri, directed by Koushik Pegallapati, attempts just that. With a unique premise revolving around a ghost tour gone wrong, the movie combines eerie atmospheres, Ramayana-inspired touches, and a tragic backstory linked to a radio station from the 1980s. While the film succeeds in keeping audiences hooked for much of its runtime, it falls short of achieving lasting impact due to safe choices in storytelling.
Story Overview
Raghav (Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas) and Mythili (Anupama Parameswaran) are a couple who work as curators of ghost-walking tours in the town of Kishkindhapuri. What begins as a staged adventure turns into a terrifying ordeal when their group visits the abandoned Suvarnamaya radio station. Soon, visitors start dying under mysterious circumstances, and Raghav must unravel the dark secret behind the haunting. The narrative cleverly builds intrigue in the first half, but the second half slips into familiar horror territory with a climax that feels hurried.
Performances
Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas delivers one of his more convincing performances, portraying Raghav with sincerity and vulnerability. Anupama Parameswaran shines in her role, especially in the emotionally intense hospital sequence. Sandy Master surprises with a chilling antagonist portrayal, adding depth to the horror element. Supporting actors like Tanikella Bharani, Prema, Hyper Aadi, and Sudarshan provide occasional comic relief and gravitas, though their roles remain brief.
Direction and Screenplay
Koushik Pegallapati deserves credit for choosing a fresh setting and weaving in mythological references without overburdening the story. The first half, filled with atmospheric tension, well-timed jump scares, and sharp editing, works wonderfully. However, the second half leans heavily on routine tropes, losing the novelty established earlier. A more delayed ghost reveal and deeper character arcs could have elevated the experience further.
Technical Aspects
The technical departments play a major role in enhancing Kishkindhapuri.
- Music & Sound: Chaitan Bharadwaj’s score and Radhakrishna’s sound design effectively heighten the scares, though at times they feel overbearing.
- Cinematography: Chinmay Salaskar’s camera work, especially the handheld shots, adds urgency and unease.
- Art & Production Design: Manisha Dutt and Siva Kamesh bring authenticity to the recreated 1980s radio station, grounding the supernatural elements in realism.
- Editing: Niranjan Devaramane ensures the film’s pace stays sharp, though a longer runtime could have allowed more character depth.
Strengths
- Fresh and intriguing haunted radio station setting.
- Strong first half with effective world-building and scares.
- Good performances, particularly by Sreenivas, Anupama, and Sandy Master.
- High production values with authentic set design and solid sound work.
Weaknesses
- Second half loses momentum with rushed storytelling.
- Predictable climax undermines the strong buildup.
- Emotional depth and character arcs feel underexplored.
- Some forced commercial elements like the foreign duet disrupt the flow.
Verdict
Kishkindhapuri is an honest attempt at a horror thriller that entertains without overindulging in clichés. Its atmospheric first half, sincere performances, and strong technical craft make it a watchable film. However, the lack of emotional resonance and a safe, predictable ending prevent it from becoming a standout horror entry.
The movie is currently playing in theatres.
