On February 7, Bollywood films like Loveyapa and Badass Ravi Kumar were released but failed to make an impact. However, the re-release of Sanam Teri Kasam after nine years performed well. On the same day, the Telugu film Thandel, starring Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi, also hit theaters. Directed by Chandoo Mondeti, this romantic drama is based on a real-life incident. The film was released in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi. Despite facing competition from Loveyapa, Badass Ravi Kumar, Sanam Teri Kasam, Padmaavat, and Interstellar, Thandel has made a strong mark at the box office.
Thandel’s Box Office Performance
Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi’s film has been performing exceptionally well. According to the production house Geetha Arts, the film has grossed ₹62.37 crore worldwide in three days. As per IMDb, Thandel was made on a budget of approximately ₹75 crore, and it is expected to recover its costs soon. The film’s music has been composed by Devi Sri Prasad, and Naga Chaitanya’s performance is receiving high praise.
Thandel’s Story
In Thandel, Naga Chaitanya plays the role of Raju, a fisherman, while Sai Pallavi portrays his girlfriend, Satya. The film is based on a real-life incident where a fisherman accidentally crosses into Pakistani waters and is captured. The story is inspired by an event in 2018 when fishermen from Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, unknowingly entered Pakistani territory and were detained.
Thandel’s strong box office performance and compelling storyline have made it a standout release despite facing stiff competition.