Over the past decade, Telugu cinema has leaned towards hero driven blockbusters where larger than life male roles dominate. Women centric films have become rare. A decade ago, hits like Arundhati, Anasuya, Mantra, and Anukokunda Oka Roju showed that audiences do connect with strong female led stories. Yet in recent years, producers have hesitated to back them.
One of the few attempts was Parada starring Anupama Parameswaran. The director insisted heroines deserve equal elevation as heroes. But the film’s commercial failure only deepened industry doubts about women led stories.
This is why all eyes are on Ghaati, Anushka Shetty’s awaited comeback directed by Krish. The film is releasing this week. Anushka takes on a mass hero style role rarely seen in Tollywood. The stakes are high as success could prove women led cinema can be both artistic and profitable.
Anushka carries the weight of history. Arundhati broke box office records. Bhaagamathie turned out successful despite mixed reviews. With her star power, even a decently strong script could impress audiences and trade analysts.
If Ghaati works, it may inspire stronger roles for Samantha, Tamannaah, Sai Pallavi, and others. More importantly, it can help Telugu cinema move toward balance where heroines are not only support but central drivers of the story.
For now, the big question is simple. Can Anushka Shetty once again emerge as the torchbearer of women centric storytelling in Tollywood?
