; described as a career-best performance after a decade-long hiatus in the story [11, 4, 27]. Arjun Sarkaar HIT: The 3rd Case
6. Sri Devi as the Defense Attorney ( Court - State Vs. A Nobody )
: A high-stakes espionage role requiring absolute mental sharpness and physical agility. The performance moves away from typical cinematic patriotism, diving instead into the moral ambiguities, isolation, and psychological toll of espionage. The Evolution of Tollywood Casting and Audition Standards 7 movie roles telugu 2025 verified
This role is tailored for Balakrishna's "mass" image but offers a dramatic arc, transitioning from a professional to a violent outlaw and then a protective guardian. 3. Dhanush as a 'Compassionate Beggar' in Kuberaa Status: Verified (Release Date: June 20, 2025)
Bringing a timeless tale of devotion to the big screen, Vishnu Manchu delivered a passionate performance as the titular character in the mythological epic Kannappa . The film tells the story of Thinnadu, a tribal warrior and staunch atheist whose journey leads him to become a deeply devoted follower of Lord Shiva, to the point of plucking out his own eyes in an act of extreme faith. Vishnu Manchu, who also wrote the screenplay, lived and breathed the role, heading an ensemble cast that includes cameos from superstars like Prabhas and Akshay Kumar. His dedication to the physically and emotionally demanding role was widely praised, making Kannappa a grand cinematic spectacle. ; described as a career-best performance after a
Making a massive return to the underworld genre, Pawan Kalyan portrays , a retired gangster who resurfaces in 1993 Mumbai to take down a powerful crime lord. Released on September 25, 2025, this role became the highest-grossing Telugu character of the year, breaking opening day records with its raw, "original gangster" energy. Chiranjeevi as a Heroic Savior in Vishwambhara
Kingdom , Ghaati , Mirai , They Call Him OG A Nobody ) : A high-stakes espionage role
The long-awaited return of Pawan Kalyan to the big screen in 2025 was nothing short of an event. Directed by Sujeeth, They Call Him OG features the Power Star in the titular role of , a feared and stylish gangster who resurfaces from the Mumbai underworld after a decade to settle old scores. Adding to the film's gravitas was Emraan Hashmi, making his Telugu debut as the ruthless crime boss, Omi Bhau. Pawan Kalyan's powerful screen presence and mass appeal made this role a verified, highly anticipated blockbuster.
: Based on real-life incidents, this role follows a fisherman who accidentally crosses international waters and gets caught by Pakistani forces. Nandamuri Balakrishna as a Daring Robber Daaku Maharaaj
Moving from mass entertainers to compelling dramas, Court: State vs A Nobody emerged as one of the year's most critically acclaimed sleeper hits. , known for his comedic timing, delivered a career-best nuanced performance as Surya Teja, a junior lawyer fighting a seemingly impossible POCSO case. His portrayal, marked by restrained dialogue delivery and powerful body language, was praised for its honesty and conviction. The film, a gripping courtroom drama, was produced by Nani and earned a spot on Netflix, solidifying Priyadarshi's role as a verified powerhouse performer.
, Sajja portrays a protector of nine sacred scriptures capable of turning mortals into deities, blending mythology with heroism. Rashmika Mandanna as Bhooma Devi The Girlfriend : Available on
