The recently announced 72nd National Film Awards brought double honours for the film “35 Chinna Katha Kaadu,” which won the awards for Best Children’s Film and Best Child Artist. Master Arun Dev Pothula received the National Award for Best Child Artist for his outstanding performance in the film.
Master Arun Dev is currently playing a key role in the upcoming children’s film “Summer Holidays.” On this occasion, the team of “Summer Holidays” felicitated and congratulated the team of “35 Chinna Katha Kaadu” for their remarkable achievement.
“Summer Holidays” is being produced by Dheeraj Mogilineni under the banner of Dheeraj Mogilineni Entertainment and directed by Sreekar. The film stars Master Rohan, Master Arun Dev, and Baby Khushi in important roles and is gearing up for a grand theatrical release soon.
Speaking at the event, music director Sinjith Yerramilli said, “35 Chinna Katha Kaadu is a beautiful film. I became emotional while watching Arun’s performance. These National Awards are the result of director Nanda Kishore’s relentless efforts. Vivek Sagar’s music for the film has been a constant source of inspiration for me. Arun is now acting in our film Summer Holidays, and even while watching his performance on our sets, I often get emotional. My heartfelt congratulations to the entire team of 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu.”
Director Srikar said, “I congratulate the team of 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu for delivering a children’s film that has made Telugu cinema proud. About three decades ago, Bala Ramayanam brought the National Award for Best Children’s Film to Telugu cinema, and now this honour has returned with 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu. Arun is a wonderful actor and is currently working in our film Summer Holidays. During the shoot, he often spoke about the dedication and hard work the entire team put into making 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu. In our film, he delivered a two-page dialogue in a single take. Watching his performance, I found myself smiling when he smiled and tearing up when he cried. I also congratulate Arun’s parents for being his strongest support system in helping him grow as an actor.”
Producer Dheeraj Mogilineni said, “I missed watching 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu in theatres but watched it later on OTT. Priyadarshi, Nivetha Thomas, and the filmmakers believed in the story and brought it to life with great conviction. Hats off to all their efforts. After watching the film, I genuinely felt it deserved a much bigger theatrical run and should have reached many more audiences. In fact, 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu inspired me to produce Summer Holidays. Even before the National Awards were announced, I wanted to honour director Nanda Kishore simply for making such a meaningful film. I hope he continues making many more films like this. Priyadarshi’s decision to play an important role despite being a successful solo lead actor worked wonderfully for the film. His presence, along with Nivetha Thomas, helped bring greater attention to the movie. Vishwadev also delivered a memorable performance. I still listen to Vivek Sagar’s songs from the film regularly. Through this film, I truly understood my friend Srujan’s passion for cinema and my respect for him has grown immensely. During the auditions for Summer Holidays, Arun instantly felt like the perfect choice for the role. Today, he feels like a member of our own family.”
Actor Vishwadev said, “When Nanda Kishore first narrated this story, we were incredibly excited, and audiences experienced the same emotion in theatres. This film found its dream team. Everyone believed in the project wholeheartedly, and that collective faith has now been rewarded with two National Awards. Even before this, the film had won honours at several film festivals. Everyone in our team knows how strongly Priyadarshi supported the project. Arun performs with remarkable naturalness. No matter how much we praise Vivek Sagar’s contribution through his music, it will never be enough. Recently I listened to the Crush song from Summer Holidays, and it instantly reminded me of the wonderful musical vibe of 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu. I wish the entire team many more successful films.”
Actor Priyadarshi said, “I sincerely thank Dheeraj garu for organizing this event to honour our team. I first heard this story eight years ago, and the film finally released in 2024. During the shoot, director Nanda Kishore would bring the book Adhunika Mahabharatam to the sets every day. Inspired by that book, he created what I would call a modern Ramayanam on screen. I don’t know if I’ll ever get another opportunity to be part of a film like this. I believe this story came into my life because of the blessings earned by my parents. Nanda Kishore fought a long battle to bring this story to audiences. Through this film, we witnessed the immense love audiences shower on meaningful cinema. Their encouragement has inspired us to continue making good films. When I first heard this story, it reminded me of my own mother, and that is why I chose to do the film. I believe every audience member will be reminded of their parents while watching it. Congratulations to Arun on winning the National Award. I truly believe the day is not far when his house will have more awards than utensils.”
Master Arun Dev said, “35 Chinna Katha Kaadu is truly a very big story. Between the defeat called minus and the victory called plus, everyone must pass through the journey called zero. We crossed that zero and reached the National Awards. Whenever someone is losing, many hands come forward to encourage them. In the same way, every member of our team stood beside me, gave me strength, and helped me earn this National honour. I thank Dheeraj garu for organizing this felicitation and for giving me the opportunity to be part of Summer Holidays. I reached this stage because of the support of my parents, family, and teachers. I dedicate this National Award to my mother.”
Director Nanda Kishore said, “Many years ago, Bala Ramayanam won the National Award for Best Children’s Film and brought great pride to Telugu cinema. After all these years, our film has earned the same honour, and I feel extremely proud as its director. I thank Dheeraj garu for organizing this event to honour our team. They are making Summer Holidays under the direction of Sreekar, and I sincerely believe that film will win a National Award in 2028. I hope to attend that felicitation ceremony as a guest. Many people initially had doubts about this story, but our producers Srujan and Siddharth trusted the emotional experience it created and stood firmly behind me. Had they not supported this film, Arun would have outgrown the role while I continued struggling for opportunities with an even greyer beard. I hope I have justified the faith they placed in me. Every filmmaker has a responsibility to protect the producer who invests in their vision. Otherwise, future films under that banner may never happen. I made this film with that sense of responsibility. Had this film not received such recognition and audience appreciation, very few people would have come forward to make another children’s film. Instead, our film would have been cited as an example of why such films shouldn’t be made. I sincerely thank the National Award jury and the Government of India for this prestigious recognition.”
Arun Dev’s parents, Suresh and Satyavani, expressed their happiness, saying, “We encouraged our son to pursue the field he truly loved, and today that support has resulted in him receiving the National Award for Best Child Artist. The greatest honour for us is that people now proudly recognize us as Arun’s parents.”
Following the phenomenal success of Tabaahi, Monster Mind Creations, KVN Productions and Zee Music Company present the film’s second song, with Yash and Tara Sutaria taking center stage.
Following the record-breaking response to Tabaahi, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups returns with Madhosh, the film’s second song that unveils a new shade of love. While Tabaahi celebrated the intoxicating rush of passion, Madhosh turns inward, embracing quieter emotions—tenderness, yearning and everything left unsaid. Expanding the emotional landscape of Toxic, the song reminds us that every love story is layered, with each chapter revealing a different shade of love.
Song – https://youtu.be/w_AaXtKU4jo?si=
Featuring Rocking Star Yash alongside Tara Sutaria, Madhosh presents Raya and Rebecca’s relationship through a completely different lens. Their chemistry carries a playful ease, yet underneath it lies emotional conflict and unspoken longing. Raya remains the same man audiences met in Tabaahi, but the way he loves Rebecca reveals a softer, more carefree side of him, while hinting at the chaos he continues to carry within.
Composed by the acclaimed trio of Tanishk Bagchi, Arslan Nizami, and Faheem Abdullah, the romantic anthem is brought to life by the soulful vocals of Siddharth Basrur, who lends his voice across all five language versions. Released as a true pan-Indian offering, the song is titled Madhosh (Hindi), Manamohaka (Kannada), Manasaagadhe (Telugu), Thadumaarudheyyy (Tamil), and MadhuMohini (Malayalam). The lyrics have been crafted by celebrated writers Pramod Maravanthe (Kannada), Arslan Nizami and Syed Murad Gilani (Hindi), RamaJogaiah Sastry (Telugu), Vignesh Shivan (Tamil), and Rajeev Govindan (Malayalam). Starring Yash, Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Tara Sutaria, Rukmini Vasanth, and Huma Qureshi, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups brings together a powerhouse ensemble cast.
Speaking about the track, composer Tanishk Bagchi said,”Madhosh is incredibly close to our hearts since Arslan, Faheem and I have come together once again, and it’s even more special because it’s for a film as massive as Toxic. We also had the pleasure of collaborating with the immensely talented Siddharth Basrur, who brought so much depth to the song. The track beautifully captures the emotional journey of Raya and Rebecca’s characters, expressing love, longing, and the playful nuances of romance. We hope audiences connect with its heartfelt emotions as much as we enjoyed creating it.”
Speaking about the track, playback singer Siddharth Basrur said,”Madhosh isn’t just about heartbreak, it’s about everything that’s left unsaid between two people. There’s longing and vulnerability running through the song, and I wanted the vocals to reflect that honesty rather than just the pain. It’s emotional, but it also has a certain intensity that keeps building, which is what makes it such a special track for me.”
Written by Yash and Geetu Mohandas and directed by Geetu Mohandas, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups is shot in Kannada and English, with dubbed versions across Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and several other languages. Produced by KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, the film is set to release in theatres on August 26, 2026
The celebrations for Committee Kurrollu reached another emotional milestone as the entire cast, crew and makers came together to celebrate the film’s historic achievement of winning two prestigious National Film Awards. Hosted by Pink Elephant Pictures in association with Radha Damodar Studios, the event turned into an evening of gratitude, memories and heartfelt reflections as every member of the team looked back on the extraordinary journey that transformed a film made with newcomers into one of the country’s most celebrated films.
Directed by Yadhu Vamsee and produced by Niharika Konidela under Pink Elephant Pictures in association with Radha Damodar Studios, Committee Kurrollu has continued its remarkable journey long after its theatrical release. Following widespread appreciation from audiences, critical acclaim, honours at various award platforms, and recognition at prestigious film festivals, the film has now added two National Film Awards to its growing legacy, further cementing its place as one of Telugu cinema’s most celebrated recent successes.
Present at the celebrations were producer Niharika Konidela, director Yadhu Vamsee, producer Phani Adapaka, Manyam Ramesh, the film’s writers, technicians, cast members and media representatives. Almost every member of the team took to the stage to share personal memories, express gratitude and reflect on how Committee Kurrollu changed their lives and careers forever.
Beginning the evening, producer Phani Adapaka expressed his happiness over witnessing the film reach the highest level of recognition and credited every individual who contributed to its success.
Producer Phani Adapaka of Radha Damodar Studios:
“Since yesterday evening, when we all watched the announcement live, my happiness and excitement have only been increasing. This is the first time in my life that I’ve experienced something like this, and I don’t think it will happen again. I am truly very happy. There isn’t a single person to thank individually. Whenever success comes, it belongs to everyone who is part of it. Every technician, every artist—everyone’s contribution culminated in this achievement. Committee Kurrollu is an example of what can be achieved by making an authentic film. I thank everyone with gratitude for being a part of this project. A special thanks to Niharika for accepting me as a part of this project and taking this journey with me. Thank you very much. At Radha Damodar Studios, we came into this believing that the story is the hero. When the story is strong, the film speaks for itself. Yadhu Vamsee’s writing, and the way he crafted the emotions with perfect balance, is beautiful. That is my favourite genre, brother. You nurtured this story for five years and presented it as a beautiful fruit exclusively for me and Niharika garu. Thank you so much. Finally, thanks to the print and electronic media, who have been an incredible support from the very beginning. Thank you.”
Reflecting on how Committee Kurrollu became their first step into cinema, writers Kondal Rao and Subhash spoke about the faith that brought them into the project and the gratitude they continue to carry.
Writer Kondal Rao:
“Heartfelt congratulations to my entire team. Five years ago, I didn’t even have the intention of entering the film industry. Vamsee anna called me and spoke about this film. At that time, I had written just one book of poetry. Looking at my work, he brought me into this project. Winning a National Award for my very first film is a huge achievement, and I am very proud of it. I wasn’t with the team yesterday when the announcement was made. I was watching the celebration videos, and I was in tears. I don’t know how long I will be here, but I will always be thankful to Niharika garu, Vamsee anna, and Phani garu.”
Writer Subhash:
“I feel this is a gratitude meet. I never had any intention of getting into films. I had only written a few game stories. Then I met Vamsee anna, and we started talking. That’s how this journey began. Within no time, we wrote the story and made the film. Every day of that process was exciting. We approached many production houses, but Niharika garu and Phani anna were the ones who believed in his conviction. I want to express my gratitude to both of them. I also want to thank all our technicians, our music director, our DOP, and the actors, who all did a wonderful job. Finally, I would like to thank the media for helping us reach everyone.”
Music director Anudeep Dev, whose soundtrack became one of the film’s emotional pillars, entertained everyone by singing a song from the film before sharing his thoughts on the journey.
Music director Anudeep Dev, whose soundtrack became one of the film’s emotional pillars, entertained everyone by singing a song from the film before sharing his thoughts on the journey.
Music Director Anudeep Dev:
“(Anudeep Dev sang a song from the film before speaking.) Over the last two years, this happiness has only kept growing. Even now, I still feel the excitement of the film’s release. The film continues to travel everywhere for awards. I sincerely hope it doesn’t stop here and continues to grow across international platforms as well. Committee Kurrollu has become the visiting card through which I am getting new opportunities. I am truly happy and grateful to Niharika garu and Phani garu for trusting me.”
Continuing the celebrations, cinematographer Raj Edrolu reflected on the unexpected journey that eventually led him to become a part of Committee Kurrollu and the pride of receiving a National Award with his debut feature as a cinematographer.
DOP Raj Edrolu:
“Hello, everyone. This is an honour and a moment of great pride for me. Winning a National Award for my debut film is something I never imagined would happen in my life. Four or five years ago, Vamsee came to my house and narrated the film to me. After that, I moved on to work on my web series, and he continued with his journey. Then, after a long gap, I was at Pink Elephant Productions and was surprised to see him there as well, still carrying the same script. We spoke again, and I’m glad to have become a part of his manifestation. I would also like to thank my producers for giving me this opportunity.”
Actress Rishika shared how the National Award has transformed not just the film’s journey but also the way people around her perceive her.
Actress Rishika:
“I’ve been congratulating everyone until now, and today, everyone is congratulating me. I was manifesting success for Committee Kurrollu, but I never expected this. The wishes and congratulations are still pouring in. With this achievement, the perspective of my friends and family has completely changed. Thank you so much, Vamsee sir, Lady Boss Niharika garu, and the audience for celebrating this film. I believe this celebration will continue for the next ten years as well.”
Still overwhelmed by the announcement, actress Tejaswini recalled how the team’s long-standing dream of winning a National Award had finally come true.
Actress Tejaswini:
“I still can’t believe what happened. I was checking every group and social media platform for updates about the National Award for the film. Our group was named ‘Target – National Awards,’ and we achieved it. I never knew manifestation could work on that scale. I am so happy and proud of this achievement. This is one of the most wonderful moments of my life. Thank you, everyone, for this opportunity, and congratulations to the entire team. Thank you.”
Actor Sandeep Saroj emotionally spoke about how the film gave him an identity that he will cherish forever.
Actor Sandeep Saroj:
“Hello, everyone. First of all, congratulations to everyone. I am very happy that our film has reached this height. Thank you, Vamsee anna and Phani sir, for choosing me to play the character of Shiva. And Niharika garu, thank you so much. I’ve told you this many times, and I’ll keep saying it again and again. This film gave me an identity and the strength of knowing that I have such a big family. I am so happy that I don’t even mind changing my name to Shiva.”
For actor Shyam Kalyan, Committee Kurrollu became the answer to everyone who once doubted his dreams.
Actor Shyam Kalyan:
“Vamsee anna, I came from Bheemavaram to become an actor. Everyone told me it wasn’t possible, and Committee Kurrollu is my answer to all of them. From now on, people ask me, ‘What’s next?’ They no longer say, ‘You can’t do it.’ That alone is enough for me. Thank you so much, madam. I only wanted to see myself on the big screen, but I got this film. I am thankful to God for it. I can’t ask for anything more.”
The emotional celebrations continued as more members of the cast took the stage to reflect on how Committee Kurrollu had transformed their lives and careers.
Calling the film an answer for every aspiring actor who arrives in the industry with hope, Trinadh Varma spoke about the opportunities it created for an entire generation of newcomers.
Actor Trinadh Varma:
“Congratulations to my entire Committee Kurrollu family, and congratulations to Ravi anna as well for winning the Best Makeup Award. For everyone who comes here with the hope of making it, Committee Kurrollu is the answer. This film has helped shape the careers of 11 boys and 4 girls, and it all happened through Pink Elephant and Niharika garu. This is a happiness that cannot be expressed in words. If Committee Kurrollu is the action, the National Award is its reaction. Thank you.”
Recalling how the film helped him through one of the lowest phases of his life, Akshay Srinivas expressed gratitude to the entire team.
Actor Akshay Srinivas:
“Congratulations to my entire team, and thank you to the audience. We have won SIIMA, GAMA, Gaddar, Filmfare, and now the National Awards. I can’t even remember some of the other awards we’ve received. I was at a low point in my life, and these victories brought me out of it. I sincerely thank my producer and Vamsee anna for that. And for the talent that Ravi anna possesses, I believe the National Award is a very small recognition. I hope you continue to reach even greater heights. Thank you.”
Bringing laughter to the event with his trademark energy, Shiva Kumar Matta reflected on his inspiring journey from being a set boy to standing on a National Award-winning stage.
Actor Shiva Kumar Matta:
“Kinda Meeda Oppu… Committee Kurrollu Thopu! Congratulations to my entire team, and I thank the Central Government for honouring us with this award. From being a set boy to standing here today, I have come a long way. Being here today has been possible only because of Niharika garu. There was a time when I didn’t even have enough food to eat, and today I am able to eat whatever I want, thanks to Vamsee anna. I am grateful to both of you for my entire life. I will even name my children after the two of you. Thank you so much.”
Looking back at the day the team first entered the Pink Elephant office together, Manikanta Parasu shared how every milestone after the film has felt like another dream fulfilled.
Actor Manikanta Parasu:
“Hi, everyone. I still remember the day Vamsee anna took all of us to the Pink Elephant office. It truly felt like a school for us. After the film, I expressed my desire to become a director, and Manyam Ramesh sir gave me an opportunity by appointing me to the direction team of his project. While I was on that journey, I received a call from Pink Elephant about our IFFI recognition. Then came another call about the Gaddar Awards. With every new honour, we kept coming back together to celebrate. Thank you, Niharika garu and Vamsee anna, for giving me this opportunity. From now on, I can proudly say that I am an actor from the National Award-winning Committee Kurrollu. Thank you.”
Actor Prasad Behara credited the film’s success to Yadhu Vamsee’s conviction and the unwavering support of Pink Elephant Pictures.
Actor Prasad Behara:
“Congratulations to the entire team on winning the National Awards. Yadhu Vamsee worked extremely hard and met many people during this journey, but it was Pink Elephant that stood by him. Vamsee is a wonderful director. He knows how to bring out the best in actors in front of the camera, regardless of where they come from or what their background is. I am also happy that all the actors are immensely talented and hardworking. Because of Committee Kurrollu, I have gone on to act in around 16 films. Thank you, Vamsee, Niharika garu, and Manyam Ramesh garu.”
Actor Raghuvaran described Committee Kurrollu not merely as a film, but as a life-changing journey that continues to earn love even today.
Actor Raghuvaran:
“Good evening, everyone. I would like to thank the audience for loving this film so much, and the media for taking it to the audience. It feels like there is no stopping this film. For me, this is not just a film—it is a journey. Thank you so much, Vamsee, Niharika garu, and everyone who supported us throughout this journey. There were many people who discouraged me before, and today, those very same people have called to congratulate me after the National Awards. Thank you.”
As the celebrations progressed, more members of the Committee Kurrollu family reflected on how the film had become the foundation for their personal and professional journeys.
Actor Eshwar Rachiraju spoke about coming from a middle-class family in Eluru and how the film changed the course of his life.
Actor Eshwar Rachiraju:
“Hello, everyone. I am from Eluru, from a middle-class family that would save money just to watch films. For someone like me, coming to Hyderabad itself was a big step. Then I started giving auditions, got selected for Committee Kurrollu, and all of us worked extremely hard on this film. Since then, we have been receiving one award after another. It has been almost two years since the film was released, and for someone like me, all of this is truly huge. From now on, every project I take up and every film I make will be because of the foundation that Committee Kurrollu has given me. It all feels like a dream. Thank you all.”
Actor Kancharapalem Kishore looked back on how Yadhu Vamsee approached him with the role and gave him another opportunity to prove himself as an actor.
Actor Kancharapalem Kishore:
“After Kancharapalem, I was at a low point. One day, a young man came to me and said that he saw a particular character in me and that we would make a National Award-winning film. That was Vamsee. We met, and then we made Committee Kurrollu. He gave me a character through which I could prove myself once again. Love you, macha, Vamsee. Niharika garu was also very supportive. Whenever there was an important character, she would call me, and out of the respect I have for her, I would agree to do it. Every role has been a great one. Anudeep, you did a fantastic job. And Vamsee, there was one scene where he performed it himself and showed me exactly how to do it. I was shocked—I couldn’t tell whether he was an actor or a director. It gave me goosebumps. I even lost weight for this role. Everywhere I go, people talk about Vamsee. They say he introduced so many wonderful actors through this film. He is destined to reach even greater heights. Thank you.”
Lyricist Nagarjuna recalled how Vamsee gave him his first opportunity in cinema and how the team’s belief ultimately led to the National Awards.
Lyricist Nagarjuna:
“Hello, everyone, and welcome to the media. When you come to Hyderabad, the first question everyone faces is, ‘Where do I start?’ For me, Vamsee anna was that starting point. We met, he narrated the story, and we believed that we were going to create something special. He heard what I had written, called me, shared the tune, and asked me to write the lyrics. He is the one who made me a lyricist. While I was working on this film, many people asked me why I was working with newcomers who had no identity. Today, we are standing here with National Awards. I am grateful to Vamsee anna, Niharika garu, and Phani anna, who have been a solid support throughout this journey. Anudeep is like my second brother. I am very happy about this. Thank you all.”
Manyam Ramesh:
“Hello, everyone. This film began its journey three years ago, and even today, neither the film nor Vamsee has left us. He went away for a year to make another film, but eventually came back to us again. Vamsee strongly believes in the story and the producer. He never compromises until he gets exactly what he wants. He has excellent communication and management skills. That’s why we firmly believe he will make films as great as Committee Kurrollu. We are happy that we have started his next film under our production house as well. The team has also never behaved formally with us. I often find them having lunch at our office. When I ask why they’re here, they simply say they happened to be in the area for some work and dropped in for lunch. We genuinely feel as though our own relatives have come home. Every film’s WhatsApp group eventually becomes inactive, but the Committee Kurrollu group has never stopped. Even during functions for other projects, some people may be absent, but when it comes to Committee Kurrollu, no one misses it. We are truly happy with what our production house has become because of this journey. I would also like to sincerely thank the media for taking our projects so strongly to the people. My special thanks to our PRO Naidu garu for building and maintaining such a strong relationship with the media for all our projects. Thank you.”
National Award-winning Makeup Artist Ramesh brought smiles to everyone with his humour before acknowledging the people behind his achievement.
National Award-winning Makeup Artist Ramesh:
“Good evening, everyone. Ever since the announcement, I’ve been receiving so many calls. One person even asked me about my gothram and nakshatram. I told him, ‘My gothram is Pink Elephant, and my nakshatram is Niharika!’ I truly believe that anyone who comes to Pink Elephant goes through a film school. If I have to put it this way—Karta is Niharika garu, Karma is Ramesh garu, and Kriya is Vamsee garu. Niharika garu brought together 15 artists and placed them under my responsibility, and Vamsee garu made it all happen through his execution. I am very happy to have received this award. I would also like to invite my entire team onto the stage for a photograph. Thank you.”
The evening reached its emotional peak as director Yadhu Vamsee addressed the gathering. Looking back on the years of belief, struggle and unwavering conviction that shaped Committee Kurrollu, he dedicated the National Award to every member of the team, saying that the honour belonged not to one individual but to everyone who made the film possible.
Director Yadhu Vamsee:
“First of all, I would like to welcome everyone here, especially the media. Thank you for being with us. From the very beginning, I kept manifesting this moment. It has been a long journey, and I believed deeply in this film. I kept telling everyone I met that this film would win a National Award. Many people tried to make this film before us, but they weren’t gutsy enough to make it with almost 20 newcomers in the cast. I somehow managed the budget discussions with Ramesh garu. He caught me on a few things, but he was always supportive and asked me to go ahead. Then I started searching for my characters, and I found diamonds. With many of them, we went back and forth because of their commitments and schedules. Finally, I locked the cast, took them to the office, and said, ‘This is my team.’ The production house simply said, ‘Okay.’ I couldn’t understand how they accepted everyone I brought without any hesitation. The same thing happened with the songs. If I liked someone and brought them in, they simply trusted me and said, ‘Okay.’ Our actors did tremendous work. They lost weight for their roles and are immensely talented. I expected certain awards for this film, but most of the recognition came to me and Niharika garu, not to the actors, and I genuinely felt sad about that. We have won two National Awards, and one of them is for Makeup. At first, I didn’t fully understand the significance of the Makeup Award. We even discussed whether we might have overshadowed everyone else. That’s why I want to say this today: Best Film means the best actors, the best editor, the best music, the best action, and every single department that came together to make this film what it is. This award does not belong to one person. It belongs to all of us. Every one of you standing here is a National Award winner. Ravi, you are representing a very important craft, and your victory means a lot. I became emotional because of it. Makeup is truly a makeover. It includes everything—from hair to nails. Our film also has time jumps, so every character required countless details and transformations. We all worked extremely hard. Now I am manifesting for 2030. By then, I want to see every one of you at the next level in your careers. Just like a graduation batch, this Committee Kurrollu team will always remain with me. Ramesh garu, after spending a year working elsewhere, I came back to this production house because of you. One has to be fortunate to work with Ramesh garu. He is the kind of guide every new talent needs to move forward successfully. Thank you so much, sir. Without you, Committee Kurrollu would not have been possible. Phani anna, thank you so much. You have been a pillar of support for me, and I will remember that for the rest of my life. Next, my boss—my sister—Niharika garu. However much I say about her, it will always be less. Even today, she asks me, ‘Why did you trust me without any experience?’ The truth is, we still don’t know why we trusted each other so completely. She always had my back. She trusted me with the edit, the songs, and every creative decision. After completing the first half, I even asked her whether we should trim anything because the runtime felt long. She simply said, ‘Everything is fine.’ I couldn’t have asked for more. Before the film’s release, we didn’t even have an OTT deal. There was a lot of negative talk saying we should cut this or remove that. She refused to change anything. She trusted her instincts and thought only about the people who had invested their money in this project. She carried the responsibility of a ₹9 crore film on her shoulders, and she pulled it off. She is that brave. She carried this entire film with trust, and today, we are standing here with two National Awards. This life has been given to me by Niharika garu. I am happy for everyone here because every single person worked hard for this. My father was extremely happy yesterday, and I received calls from so many people. I also want to thank my younger brother, Shankar. When I said I wanted to get into films, he was the one who fed me and stood by me. Without all of you, I wouldn’t be here today. I won’t just thank you—I will make you proud. Congratulations, everyone. Thank you.”
The celebrations concluded with producer Niharika Konidela, who reflected on the emotional fulfilment Committee Kurrollu has brought into her life. Speaking about the unwavering belief that shaped the film’s journey, she shared how what began as Yadhu Vamsee’s dream eventually became her own, leading to one of the proudest moments of her career.
Producer Niharika Konidela:
“Should I just say ‘thank you’ and leave? (Laughs.) I can keep listening to these people’s stories and journeys. I think this is probably the tenth time I’ve heard them. Every one of them has come from villages and distant places with a dream. Listening to them gives me a sense of fulfilment—the kind you feel after doing something truly meaningful. I had never experienced that feeling before. If I have ever felt it, it was the moment I decided to make Committee Kurrollu. I took a couple of days to listen to the story, and once I did, there was no looking back. From that day onwards, this became my film. I decided that I would put my life into it and take it wherever I possibly could. That makes me very happy. Firstly, as I always say, even if you make a great film, if people don’t know about it, nobody will come to watch it. That’s why we went on promotional tours twice, covering even the smallest villages. At the same time, no matter how great your promotions are, a bad film will never become a hit. That’s why I feel Committee Kurrollu has the biggest heart. It carries everyone’s blood, sweat, and tears. I met most of the parents of our team members and spent time talking to them. For the first time in my life, I experienced a feeling that I still don’t know how to describe. If this is what it feels like after making a good film, then I will never leave the film industry. From the very beginning, Vamsee kept saying that this was a National Award-winning film. That was never my dream initially. But after I began this journey with everyone, I borrowed that dream from him, and eventually it became everyone’s dream. For the amount of hard work that went into this film, I wanted it to receive the highest honour possible—the National Award. It was on my vision board, and I am happy that my manifestation worked too. Vamsee, thank you for sharing that dream with me. The makeover work in this film was not easy. Akshay, you handled all of that like a taskmaster. You deserve the biggest round of applause. Ravi Kumar—we all call him Bobby—I am so happy that he received the National Award for this film. Everyone at Pink Elephant knows Bobby’s place in our family. We are simply fortunate to find people like him. My father won three National Awards for Rudra Veena 36 years ago. At that time, I wasn’t even born. Even when I used to say that Committee Kurrollu should win a National Award, I sometimes felt I was speaking beyond my place. In my family, Chiranjeevi garu and Pawan Kalyan garu have achieved so much. Cinema-wise, I always felt I was simply there as a member of the family. Today, because of Committee Kurrollu, I feel like I have earned my own place. I truly feel I deserve to be a part of the Mega family. I don’t know everything about cinema. All I know is that either I will go in search of good cinema, or good cinema should find its way to Pink Elephant. A very special thank you to the jury members for recognising our film and honouring it with two prestigious National Awards. I also congratulate all the other winners. Today, I can proudly say that Committee Kurrollu has won not one, but two National Awards. I haven’t met everyone yet, but my father told me that Chiranjeevi garu and Surekha garu are extremely happy. He also told me that Chiranjeevi garu said that after he received this honour 36 years ago, seeing me receive it now is a matter of immense pride for our family. Finally, I am truly grateful to the universe and to God for choosing me to bring such wonderful films to life. Thank you.”
As the celebrations came to a close, Committee Kurrollu stood as a testament to the power of conviction, collaboration and authentic storytelling. What began as the dream of a young filmmaker and a first-time producer has now become one of Telugu cinema’s most celebrated success stories, creating opportunities for an entire generation of newcomers while earning the highest honour in Indian cinema.
Produced by Pink Elephant Pictures in association with Radha Damodar Studios and directed by Yadhu Vamsee, Committee Kurrollu has now added two National Film Awards to an already remarkable journey that includes critical acclaim, commercial success and recognition across multiple prestigious award platforms. The film is currently streaming on ETV Win, continuing to reach new audiences while inspiring aspiring filmmakers and artists with the story behind its making.
After drawing widespread appreciation with back-to-back short films such as Ammulu, The Guilt, Ani-‘Male’, and Dear Future Me”, senior film journalist and analyst Dheeraja Appaji is back with his latest zero-budget short film, “Re-Valuation”, carrying the tagline “Second Chance at Love.”
With a runtime of under 12 minutes, the film stars Suresh Jagannadham and Anushree in the lead roles. Staying true to his tradition of appearing in every film he creates, Dheeraj Appaji makes a special cameo in Re-Valuation—a character that plays a crucial role in justifying the film’s title.
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The voices for the off-screen phone characters have been provided by Lakshmi Pendyala, Swathi Bolishetty, and Venkat Vihari. The film is jointly presented by Karri Veera Ganesh and Kommidi Srinivasa Reddy, with Wild Wolf YouTube Channel and Golden Spoon Café serving as location partners.
The story revolves around an intriguing question: Why did a young woman reject a groom whom everyone else approved of during “Pellichoopulu”? Determined to find the answer, the young man sets out to meet her again. Did he succeed in winning a second chance at love? The film unfolds this heartfelt journey with an emotional and refreshing narrative.
After drawing widespread appreciation with back-to-back short films such as Ammulu, The Guilt, Yaani-‘Male’, and Dear Future Me, senior film journalist and analyst Dheeraj Appaji is back with his latest zero-budget short film, “Re-Valuation”, carrying the tagline “Second Chance at Love.”
With a runtime of under 12 minutes, the film stars Suresh Jagannadham and Anushree in the lead roles. Staying true to his tradition of appearing in every film he creates, Dheeraj Appaji makes a special cameo in Re-Valuation—a character that plays a crucial role in justifying the film’s title.
The voices for the off-screen phone characters have been provided by Lakshmi Pendyala, Swathi Bolishetty, and Venkat Vihari. The film is jointly presented by Karri Veera Ganesh and Kommidi Srinivasa Reddy, with Wild Wolf YouTube Channel and Golden Spoon Café serving as location partners.
The story revolves around an intriguing question: Why did a young woman reject a groom whom everyone else approved of during a traditional matchmaking meeting? Determined to find the answer, the young man sets out to meet her again. Did he succeed in winning a second chance at love? The film unfolds this heartfelt journey with an emotional and refreshing narrative.
Star cast : Family hero Thiruveer, Natural Beauty Aishwarya Rajesh, Muralidhar Goud, Jhansi, Srinivas GhaviReddy,Amani
Producer : Maheswara Reddy Mooli
Director: Bharath Darshan
Release date: July 17th 2026
The story is set in Telangana villages, Damini(Aishwarya Rajesh) is born with a rare biological defect having excess electricity in her body and anyone who touches her gets electric shock.
Her electric shock nature becomes a big headache in her village, the village Sarpanch (Muralidhar Goud) , Village head Jhansi decided to get her married hiding her defect and to send her from their village.
Yadgiri(Thiruveer) an aspiring politician from a different village looking for alliance for his own personal gains accidentally falls in love with Damini.Villagers get Damini married to Yadgiri hiding her defect in a comedy of errors situation.
The rest of the story is how Aishwarya Rajesh uses her electric shock nature manufacturing defect to her advantage to solve her village, her husband Thiruveer political, family problems to be superwoman, and will Damini (Aishwarya Rajesh) come out of her electric shocking nature defect.
Director Bharath Darshan made the film with all cinematic liberties using the heroine electric shock nature problem.
The movie has hilarious quotient through the situational comedy generated because of the heroine’s electric shock nature problem, the second half was not entertaining.
Comedy and fight sequences using Aishwarya Rajesh electric shock nature were shot effectively to be hilarious and entertaining.
It’s all the way Aishwarya Rajesh,Thiruveer film ably supported by other characters performance.
Jhansi and Muralidhar Goud got meaty roles and stole the show,Amani was ok as hero mother, Jeevan Kumar as a village sarpanch and Yadgiri political opponent did well
