Tiragabadara Saami, released in August 2024, is a Telugu-language action drama directed by Ravi Kumar Chowdary. Featuring Raj Tarun and Malvi Malhotra in lead roles, the film attempts to tell a gripping tale of survival against a powerful mafia but falls short of expectations.
At the heart of Tiragabadara Saami is a young couple—Giri, played by Raj Tarun, and Sailaja, portrayed by Malvi Malhotra—who find themselves in the crosshairs of a ruthless crime boss after an altercation with one of his henchmen.
Tiragabadara Saami: A Telugu Action Drama That Misses the Mark
What starts as a minor confrontation quickly escalates into a dangerous game of survival, with the couple forced to navigate the treacherous waters of the underworld. Makarand Deshpande delivers a formidable performance as Konda Reddy, the crime boss whose shadow looms large over the entire narrative.
While the premise has the potential to be an engaging thriller, the film struggles to maintain momentum. The screenplay is formulaic, and the characters, while likable, lack depth. Despite the high stakes, the narrative often feels predictable, with few surprises to keep the audience truly invested in the outcome.
Raj Tarun, as Giri, takes on the role of a man caught in circumstances beyond his control. His performance is earnest, though the script doesn’t allow him to explore the full range of his abilities. Malvi Malhotra, as Sailaja, shines in moments of vulnerability, and her on-screen chemistry with Raj Tarun brings a sense of realism to their relationship. Mannara Chopra’s role as Radha, however, feels underdeveloped, leaving much to be desired in terms of character exploration.
Makarand Deshpande is a highlight, as his portrayal of Konda Reddy is menacing yet controlled. His presence adds a layer of intensity to the otherwise predictable storyline. The supporting cast, including veteran actors like Pragathi, Bithiri Sathi, and Raghu Babu, deliver solid performances, but the weak screenplay doesn’t give them much room to leave a lasting impression.
The soundtrack of Tiragabadara Saami is composed by Jeevan Babu, with a mix of tracks that range from upbeat to melodious. The songs, such as “Oka Poola Meghamey” and “Chaala Bagunde,” are pleasant but don’t quite stick with the audience after the credits roll. The “Celebration Song” and the title track, while energetic, feel like they were inserted to check off the formulaic “mass entertainer” boxes. Overall, the music serves its purpose but doesn’t elevate the film.
Unfortunately, Tiragabadara Saami has been met with lukewarm to negative reviews. NTV’s review called it “silly and dumb,” giving it a low rating of 1.5 out of 5. The criticism largely stemmed from the outdated story and a screenplay that failed to bring anything new to the table. While the film’s performances were generally praised, especially Makarand Deshpande’s villainous turn, many felt the narrative didn’t live up to its potential.
Eenadu also pointed out that the film’s attempt to present an action-packed, gripping drama fell flat due to its lackluster writing and reliance on clichéd tropes. The film’s outdated story and execution disappointed many viewers who had expected more from a film that promised intense action and emotional stakes.
Tiragabadara Saami had all the ingredients to be a thrilling action drama—a strong lead cast, an intense storyline, and a menacing villain. However, the film suffers from a weak screenplay, predictable plot points, and a lack of innovation. While Raj Tarun and Malvi Malhotra’s performances are commendable, they aren’t enough to save the film from being a missed opportunity.
In the crowded landscape of Telugu cinema, where action-packed dramas are a dime a dozen, Tiragabadara Saami struggles to stand out. It’s a film that, while not without its moments, ultimately doesn’t leave a lasting impact. Fans of Raj Tarun may still enjoy the film, but for most viewers, it’s likely to be a forgettable entry in the action drama genre.
