Reunion with Srikanth Odela, Nani’s new avatar, Anirudh’s music: 5 reasons to watch ‘The Paradise’

Natural Star Nani is returning to the big screens with the upcoming action thriller ‘The Paradise’ directed by Srikanth Odela. The film has been in production since June 2025 and after a couple of delays is finally hitting the big screens on September 24 with some special early shows scheduled in the evening on September 23. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons to watch the film.Reunion of Nani and Srikanth Odela after ‘Dasara’‘The Paradise’ marks the second project between Nani and Srikanth Odela after their 2023 hit ‘Dasara’. The film received huge critical acclaim which captured the rustic authenticity of a coal mine. Given this was Odela's first film, he received appreciation for its polished and confident staging. Now, with ‘The Paradise’ expectations are high for the pair repeating that magic. Recently, Nani shared that he could see Srikanth Odela’s evolution as a filmmaker while speaking with Variety India. He shared that for ‘The Paradise’ Srikanth was in full control of the set unlike ‘Dasara’.“As far as ‘Dasara’ goes, Srikanth comes from this small town called Godavarikhani in Telangana and his dad worked in a coal mine there. He understood that world well and was able to make a film like ‘Dasara.’ But when it came to “The Paradise,” a lot of research was required. When Srikanth was directing ‘Dasara,’ he never imagined he’d do something like ‘The Paradise.’ But the way he has researched and evolved to make a film like this is admirable,” Nani said.Nani’s new avatar in ‘The Paradise’In the film, Nani will be seen playing the character Jadal who seems to be playing a leader of the marginalized community who are fighting for justice and against the oppression. For the film he will be seen donning a brand new look making one of the most talked-about elements of the film. Nani has long hair where he keeps two thick braids while he also wears nose piercings and a bindi, giving him a tribal, rugged aesthetic.Nani has also muscled up his physique as his looks from the films shows a noticeable build. Interestingly, Nani in his 18 years career, called ‘The Paradise’ his most physically demanding look yet. While interacting with the media during the event, the ‘HIT: The Third Case’ actor said, “The Paradise is the most tiring film of my career, both physically and mentally. If there has been a film for which I have worked very hard in these 18 years of my film career, it is 'The Paradise'.”Story of rebellion‘The Paradise’ is primarily set around the 1980's of Secunderabad and in and around a slum settlement. From the promos released one can establish that it is about a marginalized tribal community who is long denied basic rights, citizenship and face systemic oppression. Nani is described to be someone with no conventional standing, who rises from within this community to unite them and fight back.Earlier, Nani himself described the film as "India's Mad Max". It is set to show him in an unhinged avatar, some ruthlessly killings as the film has received an ‘A’ rated certificate from the censor board.Cast of ‘The Paradise’The Srikanth Odela directorial has a star studded cast as it features Nani as Jadal and also includes ‘Dragon’ fame Kayadu Lohar as the female lead. Nani will be seen clashing with the feudal lords who are holding power over the land called "Paradise". It features Tollywood veteran Mohan Babu as Shikanja Malik and Bollywood actor Raghav Juyal as his son Vikram Malik, a ruthless enforcer.The film also has Sonali Kulkarni and Sampoornesh Babu in supporting roles.Anirudh Ravichander’s soundtrackStar musician Anirudh Ravichander is composing songs for ‘The Paradise’. His first single ‘Aaya Sher’ was released as a birthday special for Nani. The song includes tribal percussion and gritty electronic layers, a touch of Anirudh. Folk singers Addula Jangireddy and Akunoori Deviah lend fierce, earthy vocals alongside Anirudh which received huge appreciation from the listeners.Another song, ‘Yeshanagula’ is a special one in the film as it brings back Keerthy Suresh who worked with Nani and Srikanth in Dasara for a special cameo.Recently the makers also dropped the third single, ‘Anjaana Anjaani’ which is a romance number features Nani and Kayadu Lohar.Get the latest Bollywood & Entertainment News, and more. Download the TOI app.Give your child the gift of confidence! Claim your exclusive TOI Masterclass spot today!