In a delightful addition to the Sankranthi film lineup, choreographer Vijay Binni has stepped into the director’s chair with “Naa Saami Ranga,” a Telugu adaptation of the 2019 Malayalam film “Porinju Mariam Jose.” Starring Nagarjuna, Ashika Ranganath, Allari Naresh, Mirnaa Menon, Raj Tarun, and Ruhani Sharma, the film brings a mix of action, drama, and festive cheer to the big screen.
Set in the year 1988, the narrative revolves around the deep bond between Kishtaiyah (Nagarjuna) and Anji (Naresh), who are fiercely loyal to village head Peddayya (Nassar). Tasked with protecting Bhaskar (Raj), who has fallen in love with Kumari (Ruksha1r) from a neighboring village, their lives take an unexpected turn.
Despite being the last release for Sankranthi, “Naa Saami Ranga” manages to stand out, offering a mix of entertainment and festival vibes. The film’s events unfold during the Bhogi and Sankranthi festivals, with Dasaradhi Sivendra’s cinematography and MM Keeravaani’s music contributing to the festive atmosphere.
One notable aspect of the film is its incorporation of the Konaseema-native ritual of prabhala teertham, adding a cultural touch to the storyline. While the plot may not leave a lasting impact, the film succeeds in captivating audiences during the viewing experience.
The ensemble cast breezes through their roles, with special mention to Ashika Ranganath, who steals the show as Varalakshmi. Her character, Varalu, becomes a scene-stealer with a commendable performance, standing out even in the midst of multiple plot points. The film also breaks traditional stereotypes, portraying Varalu as a strong female lead who stands up for herself.
However, the adaptation is not without its flaws. “Naa Saami Ranga” inherits some of the shortcomings of its source material, as the story heavily relies on the audience caring about a diverse set of characters. Certain character arcs, such as Anji and Manga’s (Mirnaa), could have been more fleshed out to enhance emotional engagement.
Nevertheless, Vijay Binni’s approach to the film, emphasizing mass masala elements, proves effective. The director successfully balances the commercial aspects, offering moments that will undoubtedly thrill Nagarjuna’s fans. The old-fashioned romance between Kishtayya and Varalu lingers, contributing to the film’s charm.
In summary, “Naa Saami Ranga” emerges as a no-nonsense rural drama that holds its ground as a decent Sankranthi entertainer. Despite some imperfections, the film’s festive spirit, coupled with engaging performances, makes it a worthwhile watch for audiences seeking a dose of mass masala entertainment during the holiday season.
Sources By Agencies
