Poster: Akhil Raj, Naga Durga Join Hands For Shanarthi

Article by Satya Published on: 12:38 pm, 14 August 2026

A new cinematic journey rooted in the soil and traditions of Telangana has begun with the launch of Shanarthi. Backed by Sampath Nandi’s Sampath Nandi Teamworks, in association with KV Sridhar Reddy of Sri Dhanalakshmi Productions, the film is presented by Aditya Movies.

The film introduces Raj Ganesh Uppunooti as a director. A protégé of Sampath Nandi, he takes charge of the project with a story developed by Sampath Nandi and his team. Set against the authentic backdrop of rural Telangana, Shanarthi promises to explore the region’s culture and traditions through an emotionally engaging narrative.

Akhil Raj of Raju Weds Rambai fame leads the cast. Opposite him is Naga Durga, a familiar face from popular Telangana folk songs, who steps into acting for the first time with this film that comes with the tagline- Tale of Culture. Suresh Bobbili scores the music. This indeed looks like a crazy combination.

Two hands clasping each other dominate the title poster, with turmeric yellow on one and vibrant red on the other. Sacred threads tied around both wrists and traditional red bangles on the red hand add layers of cultural detail. The colours and styling together reflect the spirit of Telangana rituals, celebrations and customs.

The film was launched today in Hyderabad, while the regular shoot commences soon.