Uppu Kappurambu

Uppu Kappurambu is a 2025 Telugu-language film that blends comedy, drama, and social satire. Directed by Ani I.V. Sasi (known for the offbeat romance Ninnila Ninnila), it draws inspiration from a 17th-century Telugu poem by philosopher Vemana, using the metaphor of “uppu” (salt) and “kappu” (camphor)—similar in look but distinct in essence—to explore themes like community bonds, dignity in death, patriarchy, communal divisions, and leadership. The title evokes absurdity and hidden truths, mirroring the film’s quirky take on rural life.

Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free)

Set in the fictional 1990s village of Chitti Jayapuram, the story revolves around a bizarre crisis: the local cemetery is running out of burial space. Apoorva (Keerthy Suresh), the reluctant new village head after her father’s death, teams up with Chinna (Suhas), the graveyard caretaker, to find a solution. What follows is a series of hilarious and chaotic events that expose the village’s idiosyncrasies, leading to unexpected unity amid socio-political tensions like misogyny and dynasty politics. It’s a madcap satire on death, land scarcity, and legacy, wrapped in heartwarming humor.

Uppu Kappurambu Key Details – Cast and Crew

The movie has received mixed-to-positive reviews, praised for its fresh premise and performances, but critiqued for uneven pacing and over-the-top humor in the second half. It starts strong with a witty setup, but it can feel exaggerated later.

Suhas delivers arguably the film’s standout performance as Chinna. He brings a quiet, grounded dignity to the role of a gravedigger who understands mortality better than anyone. His emotional sincerity acts as the film’s backbone, particularly in scenes involving his ailing mother (Talluri Rameswari).

Keerthy Suresh embraces a different, more exaggerated comedic style as Apoorva. While her initial, manic energy might be jarring for some viewers accustomed to her previous roles, she skillfully evolves her character from a bumbling, unwilling leader into an empathetic figure. Her commitment to the quirky demands of the role is commendable, proving her versatility in this Telugu dark comedy. Supporting actors like Babu Mohan and Shatru add necessary friction as the political agitators trying to undermine Apoorva’s authority.

Direction and Technicals

Ani I. V. Sasi’s direction maintains a light, farcical tone while ensuring the satire lands effectively. The screenplay, penned by Vasanth Maringanti, is the true star, crafting an offbeat premise that feels both bizarre and pressingly relevant. While critics have noted that the pace is occasionally sluggish, particularly in the first half, the emotional payoff and the sharpness of the social commentary in the second half largely redeem these minor flaws. The cinematography by Divakar Mani warmly captures the rural, 1990s setting of Chitti Jayapuram.

Uppu Kappurambu is a unique, thought-provoking comedy that uses death to talk about life, inequality, and tradition. If you enjoy films that utilize absurdity for clever social commentary, this is one of the more interesting new Telugu movie releases available for streaming.

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