From Saailu Kampati to Sai Marthand: Top 5 young Telugu directors who stole the spotlight in 2025
Telugu cinema had some memorable hits in 2025. But there are a few debutante and young directors who stunned one and all with their new-age films. Check out the list
Last Updated: 01.56 PM, Dec 29, 2025
2025 is finally coming to an end, and close to 250 movies have come out in Telugu alone. While star directors like Boyapati Sreenu failed to create an impact, there are a few young and debut directors who impressed one and all with their films. From Saailu Kampati to Sai Marthand, here are the top five Telugu directors who impressed one and all in 2025. Check out the list.
Telugu directors who impressed in 2025
Mirai – Karthik Ghattamaneni
After making his directorial debut with Surya vs Surya, Karthik took a long gap and continued his work as a cinematographer. In 2025, he came up with Mirai, which ended as a massive hit at the box office. Featuring Teja Sajja as the main lead, Mirai was made on a budget of Rs 60 crore and stunned one and all with its production values and amazing narrative. The way Karthik mixed devotional elements with solid emotions made Mirai a smash hit and gave Karthik a new lease on life in his career.
Anaganaga – Sunny Sanjay
Anaganaga was supposed to be a theatrical release, but it ended as a direct OTT release, as the hero Sumanth did not have a proper market. The moment Anaganaga landed on OTT, it became a viral hit and clocked over 200 million streaming minutes online. The film is about a teacher who goes against the education system and brings a massive change in the way content-based teaching is taught to students. The way Sunny executed the film with a solid family drama and heartbreaking moments in the second half made this film a smash hit on OTT.
Little Hearts – Sai Marthand
Little Hearts is a low-budget comedy caper that not many knew about. Even after the trailer was out, there was no noise about this film, which has a social media influencer, Mouli, as the main lead. Little Hearts is about two young students who fail their exams and fall in love. The manner in which the love story is showcased in a hilarious way won the hearts of many. Little Hearts made close to Rs 30 crore gross at the box office, making Sai Marthand a new sensation.
Shambhala – Ugandhar Muni
Raju Weds Rambai – Saailu Kampati
Raju Weds Rambai was a surprise hit in 2025 and shocked one and all with its narrative. Based on a true story, the romantic village drama was directed by debutant Saailu Kampati. The romantic drama is about a couple who go against their parents and end up in all sorts of trouble. The shocking climax twist became a talking point, and director Saailu was praised for choosing such an unorthodox climax.
Must-watch Telugu films of 2025 FAQs
Q. Where to stream Mirai on OTT?
A. Teja Sajja's Mirai can be streamed on JioHotstar and here on OTTplay Premium.
Q. Where to stream Raju Weds Rambai on OTT?
A. You can stream the film on ETV Win and here on OTTplay Premium
Q. Where to Little Hearts on OTT?
A. You can stream the show on ETV Win and here on OTTplay Premium