Imagine sitting in a packed theater, the lights dim, and the screen lights up with a story that grips you from the first frame. That’s Kuberaa, the Telugu crime drama that’s got Indian movie lovers buzzing. Released on June 20, 2025, this Sekhar Kammula directorial isn’t just another film—it’s a bold exploration of money, power, and morality that’s sparking conversations across the country. But what makes Kuberaa so special? Is it the star-studded cast, the gripping storyline, or something deeper? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Kuberaa, from its cast and reviews to its box office performance and OTT release.
Table of Contents
What Is Kuberaa All About?
Kuberaa isn’t your typical commercial potboiler. Directed by Sekhar Kammula, known for feel-good hits like Anand and Fidaa, this film takes a darker, more introspective turn. It’s a social thriller that weaves together themes of greed, ambition, and humanity, centered around a massive ₹1 lakh crore scam. The story follows three key characters:
- Deva (Dhanush): A beggar with a photographic memory and a zest for life, whose journey from the streets to unexpected wealth is the heart of the film.
- Deepak (Nagarjuna): A CBI officer, falsely imprisoned, who orchestrates a plan involving beggars to catch corrupt billionaires.
- Neeraj Mitra (Jim Sarbh): A ruthless businessman aiming to control oil reserves through a web of corruption.
The plot explores the collision of these worlds—poverty, power, and justice—delivering a narrative that’s both emotionally resonant and thought-provoking. Unlike Kammula’s earlier works, Kuberaa swaps tenderness for tension, making it a standout in South Indian cinema.
The Cast of Kuberaa: A Powerhouse Ensemble
One of the biggest draws of Kuberaa is its stellar cast, each bringing something unique to the table. Here’s a closer look:
- Dhanush as Deva: Dhanush’s performance is the soul of the film. Fans and critics alike are calling it award-worthy, with his portrayal of a physically challenged beggar marked by authenticity and emotional depth. His subtle hand gestures and guileless expressions have won hearts across India.
- Nagarjuna Akkineni as Deepak: Nagarjuna delivers a restrained, stoic performance as the CBI officer caught in a moral dilemma. His ability to keep audiences guessing—hero or anti-hero?—adds layers to the story.
- Rashmika Mandanna: Playing a key role in the second half, Rashmika brings charm and innocence, though some feel her character lacks the depth of Kammula’s usual female leads.
- Jim Sarbh as Neeraj Mitra: As the cold, calculating antagonist, Sarbh’s command of Telugu and menacing presence make him a standout.
- Supporting Cast: Actors like Sayaji Shinde and Sunainaa add texture, though some roles could’ve been fleshed out more.
Read More: Vettaiyan Movie Review: Rajinikanth’s Action-Packed Social Drama
Kuberaa Reviews: What Are Audiences and Critics Saying?
Since its release, Kuberaa has generated a flood of reactions, particularly on social media platforms like X. Indian audiences, especially Telugu and Tamil movie lovers, have been vocal about their experience. Here’s a snapshot of the buzz:
- Praise for Performances: Dhanush’s acting is universally lauded, with fans calling it a “National Award-worthy” performance. One X user wrote, “From interval goosebumps to climax chills, #Kuberaa has zero dull moments.”
- Emotional Depth: Many describe the film as an “emotional ride,” with a gripping first half and a touching second half. A netizen noted, “The second half is the life and soul of the film, with emotional scenes that hit hard.”
- Criticism on Pacing: Some reviews point out pacing issues, particularly in the first half, which feels slow to some. A critic from The Hindu called it “partly riveting, partly choppy,” citing a need for tighter editing.
- Overall Verdict: Ratings range from 3 to 4.5 out of 5, with most agreeing it’s a “blockbuster” worth watching for its unique concept and strong performances. MensXP dubbed it “a gripping social thriller,” while News18 called it a “must-watch.”
Kuberaa Box Office Collection: A Blockbuster in the Making?
Kuberaa has made a strong start at the box office, with early reports suggesting a blockbuster response. Released in multiple languages (Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam), the film has resonated with a pan-India audience. While exact figures are still trickling in, social media posts indicate packed theaters, especially in Hyderabad and Chennai. One X post from Tamil TV Channel Express highlighted the “grand worldwide release” with bookings open across Tamil Nadu.
Compared to competing releases like Sitaare Zameen Par, Kuberaa has held its own, driven by its star power and Kammula’s reputation. However, the lack of pre-release buzz due to underwhelming songs slightly dampened initial hype.
Kuberaa OTT Release Date: When Can You Stream It?
As of September 19, 2025, no official OTT release date for Kuberaa has been announced. However, based on industry trends, films typically hit streaming platforms 4–8 weeks after their theatrical run. Given Kuberaa’s release on June 20, 2025, we can expect it to stream on a major platform like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney+ Hotstar by August or September 2025. Keep an eye on official announcements from Sree Venkateswara Cinemas or Amigos Creations for updates.
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Why Kuberaa Stands Out: A Deeper Look
What sets Kuberaa apart from other Telugu thrillers? It’s the way it humanizes the marginalized while exposing the rot of corruption. The film’s exploration of beggars as “invisible” members of society—brushed aside at traffic signals or temples—strikes a chord. A poignant scene addressing the lack of dignity in their deaths, followed by a rousing song-and-dance sequence, elevates the narrative.
Sekhar Kammula’s direction is another highlight. Known for feel-good stories, he takes a risk with this darker, socially conscious narrative. The cinematography by Niketh Bommireddy contrasts the grandeur of Mumbai’s high-rises with the grit of Tirupati’s streets, while Devi Sri Prasad’s background score amplifies the emotional beats.
Micro-Anecdote: I remember watching Fidaa years ago and being swept away by Kammula’s ability to make everyday characters feel larger than life. With Kuberaa, he’s done it again, but this time, it’s the underdog’s fight against a corrupt system that left me thinking long after the credits rolled.
Pros and Cons of Kuberaa
To give you a balanced view, here’s what works and what doesn’t:
Pros
- ** Stellar Performances**: Dhanush and Nagarjuna deliver career-defining roles.
- Social Relevance: The film tackles corruption and inequality head-on, making it relatable for Indian audiences.
- Visual and Sound Design: Niketh Bommireddy’s cinematography and Devi Sri Prasad’s score elevate the experience.
- Engaging Screenplay: Despite pacing issues, the story keeps you hooked with its twists and emotional depth.
Cons
- Pacing Issues: The first half drags for some, with a runtime of 3 hours and 2 minutes feeling excessive.
- Underdeveloped Roles: Rashmika’s character lacks the depth of Kammula’s usual female leads.
- Conventional Ending: Some critics feel the climax, while emotional, leans too predictable.
How Does Kuberaa Compare to Other Telugu Films?
Compared to recent Telugu hits like Pushpa 2 or RRR, Kuberaa is less action-packed but more introspective. While Pushpa thrives on high-octane drama, Kuberaa focuses on character-driven storytelling and social commentary. Its runtime (182 minutes) is similar to RRR but feels longer due to slower pacing in parts. However, its unique premise—using beggars in a ₹1 lakh crore scam—sets it apart from the typical hero-worship narratives.
Content Gap: Most reviews compare Kuberaa to Kammula’s earlier works but don’t explore its place in the broader Telugu cinema landscape. This section fills that gap by positioning it as a bridge between commercial and socially conscious filmmaking.
FAQ: Your Top Kuberaa Questions Answered
Is Kuberaa worth watching in theaters?
Absolutely. The film’s visuals, emotional depth, and Dhanush’s performance make it a theatrical experience. However, if you prefer shorter runtimes, you might find the pacing a bit slow.
Who is the lead actor in Kuberaa?
Dhanush plays the central character, Deva, with Nagarjuna and Rashmika Mandanna in key supporting roles.
What is the story of Kuberaa?
Kuberaa follows a beggar, Deva, who gets entangled in a ₹1 lakh crore scam orchestrated by a CBI officer (Nagarjuna) to trap a corrupt businessman (Jim Sarbh). It’s a tale of greed, morality, and survival.
When will Kuberaa be available on OTT platforms?
While no official date is confirmed, expect it on a major platform like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video by August–September 2025, based on typical release patterns.
Conclusion: Why Kuberaa Is a Must-Watch for Indian Movie Lovers
Kuberaa isn’t just a movie—it’s a mirror to society’s highs and lows, wrapped in a gripping thriller. Dhanush’s raw performance, Nagarjuna’s nuanced acting, and Sekhar Kammula’s bold storytelling make it a film that lingers. Sure, it has its flaws—pacing issues and a slightly predictable climax—but the emotional payoff and social commentary make it worth your time. Whether you’re catching it in theaters or waiting for the OTT release, Kuberaa is a cinematic experience that’ll leave you thinking.
