Sundarakanda [2025] Review || A Warm, Watchable Comeback for Nara Rohit || With Comedy and Heart.

Intro

Sundarakanda marks Nara Rohit’s return in a romantic comedy about a late‑thirties bachelor chasing an idealized first love, blending clean humor with family emotions for a festival‑week release. Cleared with a U/A certificate, the film opened on August 27, 2025, aligning with Ganesh Chaturthi and headlined by Rohit alongside Vriti Vaghani and Sridevi Vijaykumar. Early critical reactions call it a “watchable” entertainer with highlights in performances, music, and situational comedy.

Quick facts

• Cast: Nara Rohit, Vriti Vaghani, Sridevi Vijaykumar, Naresh, Satya, Ajay, Abhinav Gomatam, VTV Ganesh.

• Crew: Director Venkatesh Nimmalapudi; Music Leon James; Cinematography Pradeesh Varma; Editing Rohan Chillale; Production Sandeep Picture Palace.

• Release and rating: Theatrical release on Aug 27, 2025; CBFC U/A certificate for a family‑friendly romantic comedy.

Story (spoiler‑light)

Rohit plays Siddharth, a long‑time bachelor who still measures partners against qualities of a childhood crush, sparking a sweet but complicated pursuit when he meets Ira across a noticeable age gap. The first half sets up matchmaking comedy and a promising interval turn, while the second half explores compromise, maturity, and the realities behind idealized love.

What works

• Performances: Rohit looks fitter and grounded, with Satya’s comedic track frequently landing laughs and Vriti bringing charm and energy to Ira.

• Music and mood: Leon James’ songs and background score add lift and warmth, with “Dear Ira/Bahusa Bahusa” singled out in coverage as resonant with the film’s tone.

• Family tone: Clean humor, slice‑of‑life beats, and a feel‑good vibe keep it accessible to festival crowds seeking a light watch.

What could be better

• Mixed second half: Reviewers note momentum dips and some forced sequences post‑interval, with a climax that doesn’t fully maximize the setup.

• Writing balance: A few scenes lean on talky exposition, and certain emotional beats could have landed stronger with tighter writing.

Performances

Nara Rohit slips comfortably into Siddharth, carrying maturity and restraint while selling the film’s key emotional turns. Vriti Vaghani complements him with a spirited portrayal, and Sridevi Vijaykumar’s presence adds nostalgic weight to the parallel thread. Satya’s timing is a frequent highlight, while Naresh and the supporting cast round out the family fabric reliably.

Craft and music

Leon James’ music is an asset, with a background score that underlines the light, romantic tone without overpowering the scenes. Pradeesh Varma’s cinematography keeps frames bright and polished, supporting the film’s festival‑friendly visual identity. Editing is neat in the first half but could feel uneven as the second half juggles multiple resolutions.

Box‑office and reception snapshot

Trade chatter indicates a slow start despite the holiday advantage, though word of mouth highlights the film’s easygoing comedy and Rohit’s assured return. Critical takes converge on “watchable” with praise for performances and music, and a few reservations about narrative consistency in the latter half.

My Rating

Sundarakanda — Site Rating: 2.8/5

Verdict

Sundarakanda is a pleasant, family‑friendly romantic comedy that plays to Nara Rohit’s strengths, buoyed by Satya’s humor and Leon James’ melodic support, even if the second half doesn’t fully capitalize on its setup. For those seeking a clean, feel‑good festival watch with heart and laughs, it earns a solid one‑time viewing recommendation.

Should you watch it?

• Yes if: light romantic comedies with clean humor and grounded performances appeal, and festival‑week family outings are on the plan.

• Maybe skip if: uneven pacing or talky resolutions in the second half are a deal‑breaker.

Credits and release details

• Director: Venkatesh Nimmalapudi; Music: Leon James; Cinematography: Pradeesh Varma; Editor: Rohan Chillale.

• Producers: Santhosh Chinnapolla, Gowtham Reddy, Rakesh Mahankalli; Banner: Sandeep Picture Palace; Release: Aug 27, 2025 (U/A).