“Dhandoraa Promises a Stirring, Thought-Provoking Rural Drama”: Director Murali Kanth

After delivering distinctive films like Colour Photo and the blockbuster Bedurulanka 2012, Loukya Entertainments head Ravindra Banerjee Muppaneni is set to return with his new production Dhandoraa, a rooted rural drama that aims to leave a lasting emotional impact. Directed by debutant MuraliKanth, the film stars Shivaji in a pivotal role, supported by Navdeep, Nandu, Ravi Krishna, Manika Chikkala, Mounika Reddy, Bindu Madhavi, Radhya, and Aditi Bhavaraju. Dhandoraa is scheduled for a grand theatrical release on December 25.
Set in a Telangana village, Dhandoraa explores the intense social, emotional, and political tensions that arise around a death—specifically focusing on what happens before cremation. Unlike conventional narratives that deal with post-death rituals, the film examines how caste, dignity, power, and discrimination continue to influence even the final journey of a human being. The story is inspired by real-life incidents, lived experiences, and strong literary influences, making it deeply rooted and relevant.
Speaking during promotions, director MuraliKanth revealed that his background played a crucial role in shaping the film. Originally from Medak, he left a stable career in the US to pursue cinema, driven by a desire to tell stories grounded in reality. Drawing inspiration from writers like Kesava Reddy, Yandamoori Veerendranath, and K. Bala Gopal, he chose to focus on rural life and uncomfortable truths that often remain unseen or ignored. According to him, Dhandoraa reflects realities that still exist in villages today, including caste-based segregation even in cremation grounds.
MuraliKanth clarified that while comparisons may arise, Dhandoraa is very different from films like Balagam. The narrative unfolds entirely before cremation, asking difficult questions about why such conflicts exist and how society responds to them. Shivaji’s character forms the emotional core of the film, but every supporting character plays a significant role, contributing meaningfully to the single, cohesive narrative.
The director also highlighted the strong presence of women in the story. Characters played by Bindu Madhavi and others are portrayed as decisive and impactful, challenging the notion that men alone drive important decisions in rural households. MuraliKanth believes this perspective adds depth and authenticity to the film.
Produced with strong conviction by Ravindra Banerjee Muppaneni, Dhandoraa was made with careful attention to scale and quality. The producer reportedly connected instantly with the story and supported the director’s vision throughout the process. The film also features a powerful background score by Mark K. Robin, which is expected to elevate the emotional experience.
With a bold title that reflects its intensity, Dhandoraa aims to surprise audiences and spark conversation. MuraliKanth says viewers can expect a deeply moving, layered, and thought-provoking cinematic experience that lingers long after they leave the theatre.
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