Venkatesh-Kalyan Ram film #VenkyAnil5 launched; Keerthy Suresh, Krithi Shetty join cast
Synopsis
Two Telugu film dynasties — Daggubati and Nandamuri — are set to share the screen in Anil Ravipudi's #VenkyAnil5, launched in Hyderabad on 18 June. With Keerthy Suresh, Krithi Shetty, and National Award-winning composer G V Prakash on board, and a Sankranthi 2026 release in sight, this is shaping up as one of the most anticipated Telugu entertainers of the year.
Key Takeaways
Anil Ravipudi's new film #VenkyAnil5 – #NKRAR2 was launched with a pooja ceremony in Hyderabad on 18 June .
Venkatesh and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram lead the cast; Keerthy Suresh and Krithi Shetty confirmed as part of the unit.
The first clap was given by veteran producer Allu Aravind .
National Award-winning music director G V Prakash was recently welcomed on board by the director.
This is Ravipudi's fifth film with Venkatesh and his second with Kalyan Ram after 'Pataas'.
The film is targeting a Sankranthi 2026 (January) theatrical release, according to sources.
Director Anil Ravipudi's highly anticipated next film, tentatively titled #VenkyAnil5 – #NKRAR2, was officially launched with a traditional pooja ceremony in Hyderabad on Thursday, 18 June, marking the formal commencement of one of Telugu cinema's most-watched projects. The film stars Venkatesh and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram in the lead roles, and the makers confirmed on the occasion that actresses Keerthy Suresh and Krithi Shetty have also joined the unit.
The Launch Ceremony
The first clap for the project was given by veteran producer Allu Aravind, father of actor Allu Arjun, lending the launch a ceremonial weight befitting a big-ticket entertainer. Production house Shine Screen Studios, one of the banners backing the film, shared images from the event and described it as “The journey of #VenkyAnil5 – #NKRAR2 begins with a magnificent Pooja Ceremony. The grand Sankranthi entertainer was formally launched today with the presence of the industry dignitaries. Shoot begins soon.”
Cast and Crew Coming Together
Just days before the launch, Anil Ravipudi announced that National Award-winning music director G V Prakash had been brought on board. Ravipudi posted a video on his X timeline, saying: ‘I’ve always admired @gvprakash’s ability to make music that connects instantly with audiences. Thrilled to welcome him on board for #VenkyAnil5 – #NKRAnil2.’ The video opened with a nostalgic tribute to legendary Telugu filmmaker Jandhyala, recreating an iconic scene from the classic 'Aha Naa Pellanta', in which characters were seen buried in the sand up to their necks — a playful nod to the film’s comedic DNA.
A Landmark Collaboration
This project holds special significance as it marks Anil Ravipudi's fifth collaboration with Venkatesh, following the blockbuster run of 'F2', 'F3', 'Sankranthiki Vasthunnam', and an extended cameo in 'MSG'. It is also his second film with Kalyan Ram, after the acclaimed entertainer 'Pataas'. The casting notably brings together stars from both the Daggubati and Nandamuri families — two of Telugu cinema’s most celebrated dynasties — under one roof.
What to Expect
According to sources close to the production, the film is being crafted as a clean, wholesome entertainer with a fresh and highly relatable storyline, designed to appeal to audiences across all age groups. It will reportedly blend humour, emotion, and strong entertainment values — hallmarks of Ravipudi’s filmmaking style. The film is being planned as a Sankranthi 2026 release, with sources indicating it is likely to arrive in cinemas in January next year.
Point of View
And adding Kalyan Ram replicates the multi-hero formula that made 'Pataas' a sensation. The Sankranthi window is fiercely contested in Telugu cinema, and locking it this early signals producer confidence. Whether G V Prakash's mass-connect music style can blend with Ravipudi's comedic sensibility — and whether the Daggubati-Nandamuri pairing draws the crossover family audience both camps command — will determine if this becomes the festival blockbuster it is being positioned as.
NationPress
4 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #VenkyAnil5 film about?
It is a Telugu entertainer directed by Anil Ravipudi, starring Venkatesh and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram, described by sources as a clean, wholesome film with a fresh and relatable storyline. The film is planned as a festive treat blending humour, emotion, and strong entertainment, in line with Ravipudi's signature style.
Who are the lead actors and actresses in #VenkyAnil5?
The film stars Venkatesh and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram in the lead roles. Actresses Keerthy Suresh and Krithi Shetty were confirmed as part of the cast at the pooja ceremony on 18 June.
When is #VenkyAnil5 expected to release?
According to sources close to the production, the film is targeting a Sankranthi 2026 release, likely in January next year. An official release date has not yet been announced.
Who is composing music for #VenkyAnil5?
National Award-winning music director G V Prakash has been brought on board to compose the film's music. Director Anil Ravipudi announced the collaboration on X just days before the film's formal launch.
How significant is this collaboration for Anil Ravipudi?
This marks Anil Ravipudi's fifth film with Venkatesh, following blockbusters like 'F2', 'F3', and 'Sankranthiki Vasthunnam'. It is also his second film with Kalyan Ram after 'Pataas', making it a landmark reunion project for the director.
