Chiranjeevi, Prabhas lead packed Telugu cinema slate in 2026
HYDERABAD: After staying away from theatres for most of last year, top Telugu stars are set for multiple releases in 2026. Several leading actors are targeting the year, with more than 10 big-budget or high-buzz films lined up for theatrical release.
The Sankranthi race features The Raja Saab and Mana Shankaravaraprasad Garu. The Prabhas-led film has generated buzz with its trailers and is positioned as a horror-comedy with mainstream appeal. The Chiranjeevi film targets family audiences, with initial promotional content receiving a positive response. The trailer is expected to play a decisive role in audience interest.
March will see Paradise, starring Nani, and Peddi, featuring Ram Charan, release within a day of each other. Both films carry strong pre-release hype. Trade circles say strong content could translate into blockbuster talk.
In April, Ustaad Bhagat Singh starring Pawan Kalyan is expected to arrive. While remake rumours have circulated for months, the team has denied them. The film’s buzz is likely to depend on upcoming promotional material.
Chiranjeevi is also likely to have another release in June or July with Vishwambhara. The film was delayed following criticism of its graphics, and expectations remain muted for now.
The second half of the year will feature Fauji, a period war drama headlined by Prabhas, and Dragon, starring NTR. While official promotional material has been limited, industry buzz around both projects remains strong. Trade analysts say even a partial connect could trigger major box office collections.
Beyond star vehicles, other notable releases include Dacoit, Swayambhu, G2, Rowdy Janardhana and Vrishakarma. Two of these star Adivi Sesh, who is returning to the big screen after a long gap and is confident of delivering a hit.
At present, films led by Nikhil Siddhartha, Vijay Deverakonda and Naga Chaitanya are not carrying strong pre-release buzz. However, the makers are banking on content to drive word-of-mouth and box office results.
