Kuberaa 2025 The year 2025 has brought us a cinematic gem in the form of Kuberaa , a pan-Indian cri...
Kuberaa 2025
The year 2025 has brought us a cinematic gem in the form of Kuberaa, a pan-Indian crime drama that has taken the film industry by storm. Directed by the acclaimed Sekhar Kammula, this Telugu-Tamil bilingual film is a bold exploration of ambition, greed, morality, and redemption. With a stellar cast featuring Dhanush, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Rashmika Mandanna, Jim Sarbh, and Dalip Tahil, Kuberaa delivers a gripping narrative that resonates with audiences across India and beyond. Released on June 20, 2025, the film has garnered widespread praise for its intense storytelling, layered performances, and thought-provoking themes. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into every aspect of Kuberaa, from its plot and characters to its technical brilliance and cultural impact, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of this cinematic masterpiece.
Kuberaa is not just another commercial film; it’s a socio-political thriller that challenges viewers to reflect on the complexities of wealth, power, and human values. The movie’s unique premise, combined with Sekhar Kammula’s signature realistic storytelling, makes it stand out in the crowded landscape of Indian cinema. Whether you’re a fan of Dhanush’s raw intensity, Nagarjuna’s charismatic presence, or Rashmika’s emotional depth, this film has something for everyone. Over the next 9,000 words, we’ll unpack the story, analyze the performances, explore the technical aspects, and discuss why Kuberaa is being hailed as one of the best films of 2025.
The Plot: A Tale of Greed and Redemption
At its core, Kuberaa is a story about the pursuit of wealth and its consequences. The film follows Neeraj Mitra, played by Jim Sarbh, a powerful and ambitious businessman who discovers a rare oil reserve in the Bay of Bengal. Determined to exploit this discovery for wealth, influence, and political control, Neeraj devises a secret mission backed by top politicians. To execute his plan, he enlists the help of Deepak, a former CBI officer portrayed by Nagarjuna Akkineni. Deepak, once an honest officer, is now in prison for refusing to bow to corruption. Circumstances force him to join Neeraj’s scheme, despite his moral reservations.
Deepak’s plan involves recruiting a group of beggars from across India to act as fronts for shell companies, which will be used to launder a staggering ₹1 lakh crore in a massive hawala scam. Among these beggars is Deva, played by Dhanush, a kind-hearted and innocent man from Tirupati who is unaware of the dangerous game he’s been pulled into. The beggars are cleaned up, dressed in suits, and transformed into paper billionaires to facilitate the illegal transactions. However, the plan takes a dark turn when Neeraj decides to eliminate the beggars to erase any evidence of the scam. Deva, realizing the threat to his life, escapes, sparking a thrilling manhunt that forms the crux of the story.
On the run, Deva crosses paths with Sameera, played by Rashmika Mandanna, whose role adds emotional depth and intrigue to the narrative. The film follows Deva’s journey as he navigates survival, trust, and his own inner strength in a world driven by greed. The story unfolds with gripping twists, emotional highs, and a powerful climax that ties together the themes of ambition, morality, and redemption. Unlike typical commercial potboilers, Kuberaa takes a brooding, introspective approach, making it a unique addition to Sekhar Kammula’s filmography.
The Cast: Powerhouse Performances
Dhanush as Deva
Dhanush delivers what many critics are calling a career-defining performance as Deva, the humble beggar who undergoes a dramatic transformation. His portrayal is a masterclass in subtlety and intensity, capturing the vulnerability and resilience of a man thrust into a dangerous world. Dhanush’s ability to convey complex emotions through his expressions and body language is remarkable. Whether it’s the innocence of a beggar on the streets of Tirupati or the fierce determination of a man fighting for survival, Dhanush brings authenticity to every scene.
One of the standout moments in the film is a scene where Deva begs on the streets of Tirupati, a sequence Dhanush performed with such dedication that he reportedly spent time among real beggars to prepare for the role. His raw, unfiltered performance has earned him praise from fans and critics alike, with many calling for a National Award. On social media, fans have lauded Dhanush’s ability to “disappear into the role,” with one user tweeting, “Dhanush delivered a memorable performance. He just lived in the role of Deva.”
Nagarjuna Akkineni as Deepak
Nagarjuna Akkineni takes on a rare grey-shaded role as Deepak, the former CBI officer caught in a moral dilemma. Unlike his usual charismatic and heroic characters, Nagarjuna portrays a man torn between survival and conscience. His performance is understated yet powerful, capturing the internal conflict of a once-honest officer forced to compromise his values. The scenes between Nagarjuna and Dhanush are some of the film’s emotional highlights, showcasing their chemistry and ability to elevate the narrative.
Nagarjuna’s fans have been particularly excited about his unique role, with one X post noting, “Nagarjuna’s role is very significant throughout the movie. His scenes with Dhanush are emotionally engaging and stand out for their weight.” Critics have praised Nagarjuna for bringing depth to a complex character, with 123telugu.com stating, “Nagarjuna captures this moral conflict with restraint, showing a man torn between survival and conscience.”[](https://www.123telugu.com/reviews/dhanush-nagarjuna-kuberaa-telugu-movie-review.html)
Rashmika Mandanna as Sameera
Rashmika Mandanna delivers a compelling performance as Sameera, a character who adds emotional and narrative depth to the story. Her chemistry with Dhanush is one of the film’s strengths, with fans praising the emotional weight she brings to her scenes. While some critics noted that her character could have been fleshed out further, Rashmika’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength has been widely appreciated. On X, a user commented, “Rashmika Mandanna’s role also earned recognition. Her chemistry with Dhanush was highlighted as a major strength of the film.”
Jim Sarbh as Neeraj Mitra
Jim Sarbh shines as Neeraj Mitra, the cunning and ambitious businessman at the heart of the scam. Despite limited screen time, Sarbh’s intensity and stillness make his character unforgettable. His portrayal of a driven, ruthless antagonist adds a layer of menace to the film, particularly in the climactic scenes. Critics have noted, “Jim Sarbh, despite limited screen time, shines as the driven and cunning Neeraj. His intensity and stillness lend gravity to the role.”[](https://www.123telugu.com/reviews/dhanush-nagarjuna-kuberaa-telugu-movie-review.html)
Supporting Cast
The supporting cast, including Dalip Tahil, Sayaji Shinde, Divya Dekate, and Hareeh Peradi, delivers solid performances that enhance the film’s narrative. Each actor brings authenticity to their roles, contributing to the film’s realistic portrayal of a world driven by greed and power. While some characters are underutilized, their presence adds depth to the story, making Kuberaa a well-rounded ensemble piece.
Direction: Sekhar Kammula’s Vision
Sekhar Kammula, known for films like Fidaa and Happy Days, steps out of his comfort zone with Kuberaa. Unlike his previous works, which often focused on love and human relationships, this film is a gritty socio-political thriller that tackles hard-hitting themes. Kammula’s direction is one of the film’s strongest aspects, blending commercial elements with realistic storytelling. His ability to weave social commentary into a fast-paced narrative has been widely praised, with one X post stating, “Sekhar Kammula’s storytelling on full display... First Half is CINEMA - 2nd half will be a BONUS for me.”
Kammula’s research into the film’s subject matter is evident, particularly in the way he portrays the financial scam and its implications. As Nagarjuna noted in an interview, “I was shocked with facts which he put in film. Plot about Rich, MiddleClass & Poor.” The director’s decision to avoid a traditional romantic angle, as highlighted in an X post, also sets Kuberaa apart from his earlier works. However, some critics have pointed out pacing issues, particularly in the first half, which can feel slow at times. Despite these flaws, Kammula’s vision shines through, making Kuberaa a bold and meaningful cinematic experience.
Technical Brilliance
Cinematography by Niketh Bommireddy
The cinematography by Niketh Bommireddy is a standout feature of Kuberaa. Shot across real locations in Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Tamil Nadu, the film captures the raw authenticity of its settings. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the serene coast of Tamil Nadu, Bommireddy’s visuals create a vivid backdrop for the story. Fans have praised the atmospheric quality of the cinematography, with one X user noting, “The film’s cinematography, led by Niketh Bommireddy, has been widely applauded, particularly for its visual appeal and atmospheric quality.”
Music by Devi Sri Prasad
The soundtrack, composed by Devi Sri Prasad, is another highlight of Kuberaa. Known for his energetic and emotive scores, DSP delivers a background score that enhances the film’s emotional weight. The first single, “Poyiraa Mama” (released as “Poyivaa Nanba” in Tamil), became a chartbuster upon its release on March 2, 2025. The audio launch event, held on June 1, 2025, at the Leo Muthu Indoor Stadium in Chennai, was a grand affair, further building anticipation for the film. Fans have praised DSP’s work, with one review stating, “The background score by Devi Sri Prasad is another standout element, with many viewers praising how it enhanced the emotional weight of key scenes.”[](https://www.filmibeat.com/tamil/movies/dhanush-kuberaa.html)[](https://www.herzindagi.com/movies/kuberaa-movie-twitter-review-dhanush-rashmika-mandanna-nagarjuna-film-netizens-reactions-article-1032399)
Editing by Karthika Srinivas
The editing by Karthika Srinivas has received mixed reviews. While the film’s runtime of 3 hours and 1 minute (after censor cuts from an initial 3+ hours) allows for a detailed exploration of the story, some critics have noted that the first half feels slow and repetitive. However, the second half picks up the pace, delivering a gripping and emotionally charged experience. Kammula’s decision to trim the film to 2 hours and 50 minutes was praised by fans, with one X post stating, “Most talented @sekharkammula is trimming down to 2 hr 50 mins, this is really a best decision making #kuberaa a sure shot blockbuster.”
Production Design by Thota Tharani
The production design by Thota Tharani adds authenticity to the film’s settings, from the gritty streets to the opulent offices of Neeraj Mitra. Tharani’s attention to detail creates a believable world that immerses viewers in the story. The film’s realistic portrayal of locations like a dump yard in Mumbai, where Dhanush shot a sequence for 12 hours, showcases the team’s commitment to authenticity.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuberaa)
Box Office Performance
Kuberaa had a strong opening at the Indian box office, driven by positive word of mouth and strong performances in the Telugu and Tamil markets. On its opening day, June 20, 2025, the film earned ₹13.00 crore net across India, with a gross of ₹17.40 crore including taxes. The second day saw an uptick, with collections of ₹17.61 crore, followed by ₹18.50 crore on the third day, bringing the opening weekend total to ₹49.11 crore. However, the film experienced a drop on the fourth day, earning ₹7.25 crore.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuberaa)
Overseas, Kuberaa also performed well, contributing to its status as Dhanush’s biggest opening to date, surpassing his previous film Raayan by 17%. The film’s strong performance in the Telugu market, with night shows reaching 79% occupancy, was a key factor in its success. With a budget of ₹120 crore, Kuberaa is expected to continue its strong run, particularly with its upcoming OTT release on Amazon Prime Video in the third week of July 2025, secured for a record-breaking ₹50 crore deal.[](https://www.imdb.com/news/ni65345082/)[](https://www.imdb.com/news/ni65345082/)[](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kuberaa-ott-release-date-heres-when-and-where-you-can-watch-the-dhanush-nagarjuna-starrer/articleshow/121971188.cms)
Critical Reception
Kuberaa has received largely positive reviews, with critics praising its performances, direction, and thematic depth. Avad Mohammad of OTTPlay gave the film 4/5 stars, calling it “one of the best Telugu films in recent times” for its gripping thrills, heartfelt emotions, and powerful message. Paul Nicodemus of The Times of India rated it 3.5/5, noting its introspective take on wealth and morality. Swaroop Kodur of The Indian Express also gave it 3.5/5, praising its social commentary but pointing out pacing issues and repetitive scenes.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuberaa)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuberaa)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuberaa)
On the other hand, some reviews were less enthusiastic. A blog post on venkatarangan.com described the first half as slow and uninspiring, with the reviewer leaving at the interval. Similarly, an X post noted lip-sync issues in the Tamil dubbed version and a dragged-out second half. Despite these criticisms, the consensus is that Kuberaa is a rewarding experience for those who appreciate layered storytelling and strong performances.[](https://venkatarangan.com/blog/2025/06/kuberaa-2025-this-is-an-incomplete-review/)
Cultural and Social Impact
Kuberaa stands out for its bold commentary on wealth, poverty, and systemic corruption. The film’s portrayal of beggars being used as pawns in a high-stakes scam sheds light on the exploitation of marginalized communities. As one review noted, “Kuberaa delivers a powerful message—one that challenges our narrow understanding of what it means to be a beggar.” The film’s focus on a ₹10,000 crore scam, as mentioned by Nagarjuna, is grounded in real-world issues, making it both relevant and thought-provoking.[](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt23846482/)
The movie also breaks new ground for Sekhar Kammula by steering clear of romance, a staple in his earlier films. This shift has been praised as a bold move, with fans appreciating the director’s ability to tackle complex social issues. On X, users have called Kuberaa a “true Pan-Indian film” that appeals to audiences across linguistic and cultural divides.
OTT Release and Future Prospects
Following its theatrical run, Kuberaa is set to stream on Amazon Prime Video in the third week of July 2025, with the digital rights sold for a record ₹50 crore. The film’s satellite rights have been acquired by JioStar, ensuring its reach to a wider audience. Given its strong box office performance and critical acclaim, Kuberaa is poised to make a significant impact on the OTT platform, potentially becoming one of the biggest hits of 2025.[](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kuberaa-ott-release-date-heres-when-and-where-you-can-watch-the-dhanush-nagarjuna-starrer/articleshow/121971188.cms)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuberaa)
Conclusion
Kuberaa is a cinematic triumph that combines stellar performances, bold storytelling, and technical excellence. Dhanush’s award-worthy portrayal, Nagarjuna’s layered performance, and Rashmika’s emotional depth make the film a must-watch. While it has its flaws, such as a slow first half and occasional pacing issues, the film’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Sekhar Kammula’s vision, coupled with the contributions of Niketh Bommireddy, Devi Sri Prasad, and Thota Tharani, creates a powerful and thought-provoking experience.
Whether you’re drawn to intense thrillers, emotional dramas, or socially relevant stories, Kuberaa has something to offer. As one X user put it, “#Kuberaa - A meaningful story with soul and substance.” If you haven’t watched it yet, head to the theaters or mark your calendars for its OTT release in July 2025. Kuberaa is not just a film—it’s a journey that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
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