Ghaati is a 2025 Indian Telugu-language action crime drama film directed by Krish Jagarlamudi (also known as Radha Krishna Jagarlamudi). Produced by Yeduguru Rajeev Reddy and Saibabu Jagarlamudi under First Frame Entertainments, and presented by UV Creations, the movie stars Anushka Shetty in the lead role, marking a significant comeback for her after Miss Shetty Mr Polishetty (2023). It also features Vikram Prabhu, Chaitanya Rao Madadi, Ravindra Vijay, and Jagapathi Babu in key supporting roles.

Ghaati Plot Summary

Set against the rugged Eastern Ghats on the Andhra-Odisha border (around Koraput), the story revolves around the marginalized “Ghaatis”—a community of local porters historically involved in transporting goods across the mountains. In modern times, they are exploited into cannabis cultivation and smuggling by powerful syndicates led by the ruthless Naidu brothers (Kundhul Naidu played by Chaitanya Rao and Kaastala Naidu by Ravindra Vijay).

The protagonist, Sheelavathi (Anushka Shetty), an empowered woman, gets entangled in the weed trade due to dire circumstances. Alongside Desi Raju (Vikram Prabhu), she seeks revenge and aims to liberate her community from this cycle of exploitation, clashing with the cartel and corrupt elements like a police officer (Jagapathi Babu).

The narrative draws inspiration from real-life issues of marijuana hauls in the region and evokes comparisons to Pushpa: The Rise in its depiction of resistance against dominant forces. Themes include survival, dignity, justice, and the moral complexities of rebellion, with a focus on female empowerment in a male-dominated crime world.

Release and Reception

• Initial Release Plans: Originally slated for April 18, 2025, then postponed to July 11, 2025, before an indefinite delay. It was finally released on ibomma on September 5, 2025, in Telugu and Tamil, with English subtitles available in select international markets.
• Box Office and Rights: Non-theatrical and satellite rights were sold for ₹36 crore, the highest ever for a woman-centric Telugu film. As of September 15, 2025, it’s running in theatres like Cinemark, Regal, and Marcus Theatres, with ongoing showtimes in India via BookMyShow.
• Critical Response:
  • Praised for Anushka Shetty’s commanding performance, intense action sequences, and world-building that highlights cannabis cultivation in India. Reviewers call it one of her best roles, showcasing her regal presence and physicality in fight scenes.
  • Criticisms include familiar revenge drama tropes, melodrama in the climax, and a lack of nuance in supporting characters.
  • Ratings: IMDb – 5.2/10; Times of India – 3/5 stars; The Hindu notes it as a “gripping” but trope-heavy spectacle.

Recent Buzz (as of September 15, 2025)

• On X (formerly Twitter), fans are sharing theatre watchlists including Ghaati alongside 2025 hits like Game Changer, Hit 3, and Mirai. Box office trackers report decent openings, with full houses in Telugu circuits.
• TV Schedule: Airing on channels like Star Maa, Zee Telugu, Gemini TV, and ETV Telugu starting September 15, 2025.
• Fan Sentiment: High praise for Anushka’s “cutie Sheela” moments and action prowess; some users list it as a top watch for its message on resistance.

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