The much-anticipated Telugu horror thriller Kishkindhapuri hit theaters on September 12, 2025, bringing a fresh storyline that blends supernatural suspense with engaging performances. Directed by Koushik Pegallapati, the film stars Bellamkonda Sreenivas and Anupama Parameswaran in lead roles, pairing up once again after their success in Rakshashudu.
At its core, Kishkindhapuri revolves around ghost-walking tours conducted by Raghav (Bellamkonda Sreenivas) and Mythili (Anupama Parameswaran) in the eerie town of Kishkindhapuri. The plot thickens when an old radio station, Suvarnamaya, becomes the epicenter of terrifying supernatural events, and tour visitors start facing mysterious deaths. What follows is a gripping investigation into unraveling the haunted secrets tied to this unsettling place.
Engaging Storyline and Spoiler-Worthy Twists
What sets Kishkindhapuri apart is its ability to build a genuinely spooky atmosphere without resorting to the usual horror clichés. The filmmakers wisely avoid unnecessary comedic or romantic distractions, focusing instead on maintaining a tense, scary tone throughout the majority of the film. The haunting premise of ghost tours, a relatively fresh concept in Telugu cinema, adds a distinctive flavor to the storyline.
The screenplay impresses by delivering unexpected twists just when the story seems predictable, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. The opening portion introduces some slow moments, but the plot gains momentum with cleverly executed suspense and edge-of-the-seat thrills. There’s a satisfying balance of jump scares that are timed to perfection, emphasizing mood and tension rather than loud background scores.
Performances that Shine
Bright Bellamkonda Sreenivas delivers a committed performance that shows growth and maturity as he skillfully handles the film’s serious and spooky moments. Anupama Parameswaran matches his intensity, with standout scenes that highlight her acting range—especially during emotionally charged sequences. The film also boasts strong supporting roles, including a notable antagonist whose presence adds significant weight to the story.
Technical Excellence Amplifies the Chills
The technical elements of Kishkindhapuri complement its haunting narrative well. The chilling background score by Chaitan Bharadwaj, combined with Radhakrishna’s sound design, amplifies the eerie atmosphere. Cinematographer Chinmay Salaskar’s choice of locations and camera work brings the haunted town vividly to life, enhancing every suspenseful moment. Editor Niranjan Devaramane’s sharp cuts effectively maintain pace and tension, contributing to a polished final product.
Minor Flaws but Overall a Worthy Watch
While Kishkindhapuri succeeds in many areas, some aspects leave room for improvement. The film’s relatively short runtime results in a few rushed plot points and missed opportunities for deeper emotional engagement. The initial segments could have been more gripping, and a more fleshed-out climax would have left a stronger impact. Despite these shortcomings, the film’s unique approach to horror and its strong core performances make it a commendable effort.
Final Thoughts
Kishkindhapuri delivers an entertaining horror experience that stands out for its originality and effective scare tactics. For families seeking a horror thriller, this movie is a satisfying watch. It has a good mix of thrills, twists, and solid acting. The film was released on September 12, 2025. This, therefore, marks a promising addition to Telugu cinema’s growing list of genre films.
For a detailed look at the film’s haunting trailer and the buzz around its release, you can read our Kishkindhapuri trailer review
Additionally, to stay updated on the film’s release timeline and the recent date drama, check out the makers’ announcement in the Kishkindhapuri release date drama and U-turn report.
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