Vijay Deverakonda defends ‘Ranabaali’ after period drama draws poor reviews

Vijay Deverakonda defended *Ranabaali* as one of the best Telugu films of 2026 after the period drama opened in theatres on October 16 to a lukewarm critical response.

At a Friday press conference, Deverakonda said the film would remain an important part of his career and predicted it would become a hit. He argued that director Rahul Sankrityan and the team had pursued a larger purpose than box-office success by bringing attention to events surrounding the Great Madras Famine of 1876-78.

The film stars Deverakonda as Singanamalla Bobbili Ranabaali, a fictional Rayalaseema chieftain inspired by three historical palegars who resists British colonial forces. Rashmika Mandanna plays his wife, Jayamma. It is the actors’ third film together after *Geetha Govindam* and *Dear Comrade*, and their first joint release since their February 2026 marriage.

In an interview with *The Hindu*, Deverakonda said Sankrityan researched gazettes and books in several cities while developing the story. The production incorporated Rayalaseema dialect, clothing, architecture and the folk storytelling form *burra katha*, while taking some creative liberties.

Early audience commentary compiled by *The Indian Express* praised the lead performances and production design but criticised the screenplay, action and second half. Deverakonda said he had also read positive reactions and remained certain the film would hold a special place in Telugu cinema. Mandanna urged audiences to watch the film.