Sobhita Dhulipala interview: The podcast angle in Cheekatilo is unique and grippingly narrated
Sobhita Dhulipala returns to Telugu cinema after a very long time with Cheekatilo. The suspense thriller also has Vishwadev Rachakonda in the lead, and Sharan Kopisetty is the director.
Sobhita Dhulipala on Cheekatilo
Last Updated: 03.11 PM, Jan 21, 2026
Cheekatilo is Sobhita Dhulipala’s new Telugu film that will premiere on Amazon Prime Video on January 23, 2026. OTTplay subscribers can watch the film with a top-up option. Sobhita speaks about returning to Telugu cinema, her character, the backdrop of Cheekatilo, and her future projects. Here is the transcript.
Sobhita Dhulipala opens up on returning to Telugu Cinema with Cheekatilo
What made you say yes to a Telugu film after a long gap?
It has been quite some time since I did a Telugu film. When I was looking for a strong female-oriented script, Cheekatilo came to me through Amazon Prime, with whom I had earlier worked on Made in Heaven. They thought of me and felt that I would be a perfect choice to play the lead. This made me feel privileged, and I decided to take up the film.
Which aspect of Cheekatilo attracted you the most?
The film has a tailor-made character written for me. The character of Sandhya is gutsy and bold, with strong leadership qualities. This gives her an edge over the routine female characters that are usually written. Also, the film features a podcast that fits neatly into the narrative. Podcasts are a growing trend, and when such an element is seamlessly interwoven into the script and narrated grippingly, it makes the film even more interesting.
What is Cheekatilo all about?
The film revolves around a journalist who steps away from her job and starts her own crime podcast. Through the podcast, she investigates crimes and becomes fixated on one criminal with a disturbing past. As she digs deeper, the case begins to connect to her own life and haunt her. How she deals with all of these forms the crux of the story. The layered character and the subtle message conveyed make Cheekatilo stand apart.
Any special preparation to play the role of Sandhya?
I play a very intense role and am portrayed as a bold and daring woman. However, when she is chased by a dreaded criminal, the fear factor becomes very real. This is something I haven’t explored before. My director, Sharan, was very clear about how the character should be portrayed, and I followed his instructions. Shooting a Telugu film with different sensibilities was also a new experience for me.
Is there a romantic angle in Cheekatilo?
Not much. Vishwadev Rachakonda plays my husband, and our relationship is quite different from a typical husband-wife dynamic. I am deeply engrossed in my crime reporting, while he longs for time and emotional connection. This aspect has been handled well and forms an important part of my character’s backstory.
How does a podcast help solve the crime? Are audiences mature enough?
Audiences today are quite mature, especially those who consume OTT content. Cheekatilo is a full-fledged thriller told in a very engaging manner. There is no confusion, and the crimes and thrills showcased are fresh and will capture your imagination. The podcast angle is unique, and how it is used as a tool will be revealed only when you watch the film.
Is there a backstory to the crimes? Who plays the villain in Cheekatilo?
Yes, there is a villain, but that will be revealed only when you stream the film. The crimes depicted are contemporary in nature. Every criminal has a troubled past or negative influences. The film shows how even a small issue can push a person toward extreme actions and make him go wild.
Future projects?
In Telugu, I haven’t signed anything apart from Cheekatilo. In Tamil, I am doing Vettuvum with Pa. Ranjith, a project I am eagerly looking forward to as it offers a very unique and intense role.
Cheekatilo FAQs
Q. Who are the lead actors in Cheekatilo?
A. Viswadev Rachakonda and Sobhita Dhulipala play the lead roles in Cheekatilo.
Q. Where and when to watch Cheekatilo?
A. Cheekatilo will be streaming on Amazon Prime Video from January 23, 2026. OTTplay subscribers can watch the film through a top-up option
Q. Who has directed Sobhitha Dhulipala's Cheekatilo?
A. Sharan Kopisetty has directed the film.