2025 gave Telugu cinema some memorable characters that stayed with audiences long after the credits rolled. From intense performances to quirky and heartfelt roles, these actors brought their characters to life in unforgettable ways.
1. Srikanth: Game Changer
In Game Changer, Srikanth plays Bobbili Sathyamurthy, a grey-shaded Chief Minister. Using prosthetic makeup to appear older, he delivers a dark, intense performance with both positive and negative traits, adding depth and surprising twists, marking a new phase in his career.
OTT: Amazon Prime Video
2. Brahmaji: Baapu
In Baapu, Brahmaji plays Mallanna, a debt-ridden farmer in Telangana forced to face a shocking moral dilemma after a crop failure. His convincing performance as a man wrestling with guilt marks a strong return to lead roles in this satirical, real-life-inspired comedy-drama.
OTT: Jio Hotstar
3. Aamani: Naari The Women
In Naari: The Women, Aamani plays Bharathi, a resilient woman navigating life under patriarchy, shown across three phases like daughter, wife, and mother forming the heart of the film.
OTT: Airtel Xstream Play
4. Sivaji: Court
In Court – State Vs. A Nobody, Sivaji plays the antagonist Mangapathi, marking a successful comeback with both critical and commercial acclaim.
OTT: Netflix
5. Vennela Kishore: Single
In #Single, Vennela Kishore plays Aravind, a co-worker and friend, sharing screen space with Sree Vishnu’s character, Vijay.
OTT: Amazon Prime Video
6. Gavireddy Srinivas: Subham
In Subham, Srinivas Gavireddy plays one of the three main leads, portraying an alpha male with natural comedic timing. His performance blends charm, humor, and relatability, drawing from his own personality.
OTT: Jio Hotstar
7. Nikhil Devadula: Ghatikachalam
In Ghatikachalam, Nikhil Devadula shines as the lead, delivering an intense and layered performance that anchors the film and highlights his character’s struggles and emotions.
OTT: Aha
8. Ananthika: 8 Vasanthalu
In 8 Vasantalu, Ananthika Sanilkumar portrays Shuddhi Ayodhya, a complex character whose eight-year journey of love, loss, and self-discovery drives the film’s emotional core.
OTT: Netflix
9. Geeth Saini: Kanya Kumari
Geeth Saini as Kanya Kumari is a determined young woman who dreams of becoming a software engineer but works as a mall salesgirl due to financial difficulties, never giving up on her ambitions.
OTT: Aha
10. Chaitanya Rao: Ghaati
Chaitanya Rao Madadi plays Kundhul Naidu, a ruthless crime boss and key antagonist in Ghaati, who runs an illegal cannabis trade along the Andhra–Odisha border, exploiting tribal communities.
OTT: Amazon Prime Video
11. Jai Krishna: Little Hearts
In Little Hearts, Jai Krishna played a full-length role. His effortless comedy and natural timing added warmth to the film, making many scenes click strongly with audiences.
OTT: ETV Win
12. Manoj Manchu: Mirai
Manoj Manchu plays the main villain Mahabir Lama, also called the “Black Sword.” Marking his comeback after nine years, his intense performance impressed both critics and audiences, earning strong praise.
OTT: Jio Hotstar
13. Deekshith Shetty: The Girlfriend
In The Girlfriend, Deekshith Shetty plays Vikram, the main antagonist. It is his first negative role, showing a darker side of his acting.
OTT: Netflix
14. Narendra Ravi: The Great Pre Wedding Show
Narendra Ravi plays a notable role in The Great Pre Wedding Show, impressing with his natural acting and adding humor and realism to the story.
OTT: Zee 5
15. Upendra: Andhra King Taluka
In Andhra King Taluka, Upendra plays Surya Kumar, a veteran superstar nicknamed “Andhra King,” who battles career setbacks and fading stardom.
OTT: Netflix
16. Bandi Saroj: Mowgli
In Mowgli, Bandi Saroj Kumar plays a raw character and he impressed with his acting dominating each and every character in the film.
OTT: ETV Win
17. Rakendu Mouli: Mario
In Mario, Rakendu Mouli contributes both behind and in front of the camera. He worked as a co-composer alongside Sai Karthic and also appeared as an actor, making his role a notable dual contribution to the film.
OTT: Jio Hotstar
