VenkyAnil5 makers warn public about fake casting call fraud
Synopsis
Even before the cameras rolled, #VenkyAnil5 made headlines for the wrong reason — fraudsters circulating a fake casting call in the film's name. Shine Screen Studios moved swiftly to warn the public, as the Venkatesh–Kalyan Ram entertainer began shooting on 22 June with Keerthy Suresh, Krithi Shetty, and National Award-winner GV Prakash already locked in.
Key Takeaways
Shine Screen Studios issued a public fraud alert on 22 June against a fake casting call circulating in the name of #VenkyAnil5 – #NKRAR2 .
The public was warned not to share personal information, photographs, documents, or money with anyone claiming to represent the film.
Principal photography reportedly commenced on Monday, 22 June ; the film's pooja launch was held the previous Thursday.
The cast includes Venkatesh , Nandamuri Kalyan Ram , Keerthy Suresh , and Krithi Shetty ; G V Prakash is the music director.
This is director Anil Ravipudi 's fifth film with Venkatesh and second with Kalyan Ram; a Sankranthi 2026 release is reportedly being targeted.
The makers of Anil Ravipudi's upcoming Telugu entertainer, tentatively titled #VenkyAnil5 – #NKRAR2 and starring Venkatesh and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram, on Monday, 22 June issued a public advisory warning audiences against a fraudulent casting call being circulated in the film's name. The alert came from Shine Screen Studios, one of the production houses behind the project.
The Fraud Alert
In an official statement shared across its social media handles, Shine Screen Studios said, 'It has come to our notice that a fake casting call is being circulated in the name of our film. We hereby clarify that the said casting call is completely false and unauthorized. We request everyone not to fall prey to such fraudulent activities or share any personal information, photographs, documents, or money with individuals claiming to represent the film.'
The production house further urged the public to rely only on verified channels: 'Any official announcements regarding casting opportunities for our film will be made only through our verified and official social media handles. We urge everyone to stay vigilant and rely solely on information shared through our official channels.'
Shoot Begins, Key Cast Confirmed
According to sources close to the unit, principal photography for #VenkyAnil5 was set to commence on the same Monday. The film had been formally launched with a traditional pooja ceremony the previous Thursday, with the first clap given by veteran producer Allu Aravind, father of actor Allu Arjun.
Shine Screen Studios had earlier confirmed that actresses Keerthy Suresh and Krithi Shetty have joined the cast. National Award-winning music director G V Prakash was also welcomed aboard by director Ravipudi, who announced the collaboration on his X timeline with a video paying tribute to legendary filmmaker Jandhyala, recreating an iconic scene from 'Aha Naa Pellanta'.
In his post, Ravipudi said, 'I've always admired @gvprakash's ability to make music that connects instantly with audiences. Thrilled to welcome him on board for #VenkyAnil5 - #NKRAnil2... Looking forward to making some beautiful memories together brother.'
What Makes This Film Notable
This project marks Anil Ravipudi's fifth collaboration with Venkatesh, following blockbusters including 'F2', 'F3', 'Sankranthiki Vasthunnam', and an extended cameo in 'MSG'. It is also his second film with Kalyan Ram, after the blockbuster 'Pataas'. The film notably brings together stars from both the Daggubati and Nandamuri families.
Sources describe the film as a clean entertainer with a fresh, relatable storyline designed to appeal to audiences across all age groups, staying true to Ravipudi's trademark blend of humour, emotion, and wholesome entertainment.
Targeted Release Window
According to sources close to the director, the film is reportedly being planned for a Sankranthi release in January 2026 — the same festival window that delivered Ravipudi and Venkatesh's last outing, 'Sankranthiki Vasthunnam', a major box-office success. All eyes will now be on whether the team can replicate that festive magic.
Point of View
And high-profile Telugu productions are increasingly prime targets given their social-media-driven buzz cycles. The fact that fraudsters moved within days of the film's launch pooja — before a single frame was shot — underscores how quickly misinformation exploits anticipation. Production houses issuing timely, platform-native alerts is the right response, but the broader ecosystem needs faster grievance mechanisms so that ordinary aspirants, often from smaller towns, are not financially or emotionally harmed while chasing a screen dream.
NationPress
22 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fake casting call scam linked to VenkyAnil5?
Fraudsters have been circulating an unauthorised casting call in the name of the Telugu film #VenkyAnil5 – #NKRAR2. Production house Shine Screen Studios clarified on 22 June that no such casting call was issued and urged the public not to share personal details or money with anyone claiming to represent the film.
Who are the lead actors in VenkyAnil5?
The film stars Venkatesh and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram in the lead roles, with Keerthy Suresh and Krithi Shetty also confirmed as part of the cast. It is directed by Anil Ravipudi.
When does VenkyAnil5 begin shooting and when will it release?
Principal photography reportedly began on Monday, 22 June 2025, following the film's formal launch pooja the previous Thursday. Sources indicate the team is targeting a Sankranthi release in January 2026.
Who is the music director for VenkyAnil5?
National Award-winning music director G V Prakash has been confirmed for the film. Director Anil Ravipudi announced the collaboration on X, sharing a tribute video inspired by legendary filmmaker Jandhyala.
How can the public verify official casting calls for VenkyAnil5?
Shine Screen Studios has stated that all legitimate casting announcements will be made exclusively through the production house's verified and official social media handles. Any other source should be treated as fraudulent.
