Megastar Chiranjeevi headlines Mega 157, a high-energy action-comedy directed by Anil Ravipudi, with filming across Hyderabad and other locations starting May 20, 2025. Produced by Sahu Garapati and Sushmita Konidela under Shine Screens and Goldbox Entertainment, the film promises a festive Sankranthi 2026 release. This marks Chiranjeevi’s return to full-length comedy, crafted to blend mass appeal with humor.
In This Article:
A Star-Studded Collaboration
Mega 157 reunites Chiranjeevi with Nayanthara, their third collaboration after Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy and Godfather. Nayanthara’s casting was announced with a vibrant video where she speaks Telugu, vibes to Chiranjeevi’s classic songs, and delivers an iconic dialogue, hinting at a lively role. Sources say Ravipudi has written a refreshing, memorable character for her, ensuring strong on-screen chemistry. Speculation swirls about a second female lead, with Catherine Tresa reportedly in talks.
Anil Ravipudi’s Winning Streak
Fresh off the 300-crore success of Sankranthiki Vasthunam, Ravipudi is leveraging his knack for slapstick comedy and mass entertainers. Launched with a grand Ugadi pooja on March 30, 2025, Mega 157 kicked off promotions early with a fun video introducing the crew—writers, cinematographer, and music director Bheems Ceciroleo—each delivering Chiranjeevi-inspired dialogues. Ravipudi’s eight-film blockbuster streak fuels confidence in this project’s box-office potential.
Redemption and Fan Expectations
After Bhola Shankar’s 2023 flop, Chiranjeevi sees Mega 157 as a redemption arc, banking on Ravipudi’s script to revive his action-comedy legacy, reminiscent of Shankar Dada MBBS. Fans on X are buzzing, with some calling the Nayanthara announcement “epic” for its grand presentation, though others urge focus on content over hype, craving a classic. The film’s Sankranthi 2026 slot positions it as a festive crowd-puller.
Production and Vision
With pre-production in full swing, Mega 157 blends high-energy action, humor, and emotion. Aditi Rao Hydari and Parineeti Chopra were considered for roles, but Nayanthara’s casting has stolen the spotlight. The film’s vibrant promotions and Ravipudi’s track record set high expectations for a visual and emotional treat, aiming to cement Chiranjeevi’s enduring stardom.
-By Manoj H