Movie Name: Mana Shankara Varaprasad Garu
Release Date: Jan 12, 2026
Starring: Chiranjeevi, Venkatesh, Nayanthara, Catherine Theresa, Sachin Khedekar and Others
Director: Anil Ravipudi
Producers: Sahu Garapati, Sushmita Konidela
Music Director: Bheem’s Cicerolio
Cinematographer: Sameer Reddy
Editor: Tammiraju
Rating: 3.25/5
Mana Shankara Varaprasad Garu is the latest release at the box office this Sankranthi. The film has created a huge buzz among the family audience. Let’s see in this review how this first film directed by Anil Ravipudi, featuring Megastar, came out.
Story:
The story revolves around Shankara Varaprasad, the Chief Security Advisor of the Indian Security Agency, whose personal life takes an unexpected turn after marrying business magnate Shashirekha. Circumstances lead to their separation, creating emotional distance between him, his wife, and her children. As Varaprasad re-enters their lives, new conflicts arise, especially with the entry of a rival mining baron and an unresolved threat looming over the family. Did the couple reunite? What conflicts did the family face? What happens in the end? Forms the story of the movie.
Performances:
Chiranjeevi is the soul of the film, delivering a performance that blends vintage swag, effortless comedy, and emotional depth. His comic timing, expressions, and screen presence remind audiences of the entertainer they’ve missed for years. Venkatesh makes a grand entry in the second half, and from that point on, the film reaches another level altogether. Their shared scenes, dialogues, and dance moments are pure crowd-pleasers. Nayanthara anchors the emotional core of the film with a composed and dignified performance. Sachin Khedekar adds flavor with his quirky antagonist-like role, while the supporting cast, including child actors, complements the narrative with consistent performances.
Technical Aspects
The film is mounted on a solid scale with neat production values that suit its festive tone. The production design and overall setup feel appropriate and visually pleasing without going overboard. Bheems Ceciroleo’s music is a major strength, with folk-flavored songs already popular and a background score that effectively elevates key scenes. Cinematography is clean and functional, capturing both mass moments and emotional beats well. Editing is mostly sharp, though the second half could have benefited from tighter trimming. The action sequences are well choreographed and stylishly presented.
Plus Points:
Chiranjeevi
Comedy
Direction
Performances
Minus Points:
Slow moments in Second Half
Review:
Mana Shankara Varaprasad Garu delivers exactly what it promises, a wholesome Sankranti entertainer aimed squarely at family audiences. While the story treads a predictable path, the film compensates with strong humor, star power, and emotional moments. Chiranjeevi’s form, coupled with the delightful presence of Venkatesh, becomes the film’s biggest highlight. Anil Ravipudi shows noticeable maturity by avoiding excessive cringe and focusing on clean, connectable entertainment. The first half, packed with humor, benefits immensely from Chiru’s energy. The second half slows down briefly but recovers with impactful scenes and satisfying payoffs.
Final Verdict: Mana Prasad Garu, Sankranthi Winner.
Click Here To Read Review in Telugu
