Atithi Devo Bhava release date: When and where to watch the Telugu thriller starring Aadi Saikumar, Nuveksha

A good chunk of small budget films are trying to reap benefits out of the postponement of director SS Rajamouli's much-delayed historical fiction saga RRR. Atithi Devo Bhava is among the first films to have confirmed their release for the Sankranti season after the news surrounding RRR's delay did the rounds. The film, a romantic thriller starring Aadi Saikumar, Nuveksha in lead roles, is helmed by Polimera Nageshwar and slated to hit theatres on January 7. First-time producers Raja Babu Miryala and Ashok Reddy Miryala have bankrolled the project.

The teaser, released a couple of weeks ago, hints at a novel premise. The glimpse initially discusses a few characters who make fun and exploit other's weaknesses. Aadi is introduced as a hot-headed youngster who is never afraid to confront his odds in the hour of crisis. There's considerable dose of action followed by a romantic track between Aadi and Nuveksha. The later part of the teaser has Aadi speaking strangely as if he's been posessed by a ghost. However, the makers assure that there's no horror angle in the story and it's just done to make audiences curious.

"Many people have messaged after the teaser launch enquiring me about the genre of Atithi Devo Bhava. It's a full-fledged family entertainer and one that I am really excited about. I had the same energy while shooting for it. The music has certainly caught up with the crowds. The film has turned out very well and will offer a different experience for viewers. I hope audiences encourage our effort by watching the film in theatres. Like all other films, I wish they bless us with their continued patronage," Aadi said recently.

Shekar Chandra has scored the music for the film while Pushpa-fame Karthika Srinivas has handled the edits. The number Baguntundi Nuvvu Navvithe, sung by Sid Sriram, has caught the attention of music lovers. Amarnadh Bommireddy has cranked the camera for the same.