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Thandel: Sai Pallavi calls Naga Chaitanya's performance intense and mesmerizing

Thandel: Sai Pallavi and Naga Chaitanya play main leads in the Chandoo Mondeti film, and the star heroine is in awe of her co-star's performance. Read to learn more.

Thandel: Sai Pallavi calls Naga Chaitanya's performance intense and mesmerizing

Thandel poster

Last Updated: 09.39 AM, Feb 05, 2025

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Thandel is all set to hit the screens on February 7, 2025. Bookings are open, and ticket sales are soaring, indicating that the Naga Chaitanya starrer is poised for a strong opening in the Telugu states. Sai Pallavi plays the female lead in the film and has expressed her admiration for Naga Chaitanya’s performance, stating that it completely shocked her. 

Sai Pallavi goes gaga over Naga Chaitanya's performance

In a recent interview, she shared that one particular scene in the film, filled with intense emotions, left her stunned.

"I clearly remember a scene featuring both of us. We filmed the scene, and later that evening, I watched the rushes and was taken aback by Chay's performance. The very next day, I went to my director, Chandoo Mondeti, and asked him to reshoot my portion of the scene because I felt I looked dull compared to Chay Akkineni," said Sai Pallavi.

Chay Akkineni in Thandel
Chay Akkineni in Thandel

The star actress, known for delivering powerful performances in all her films, often steals the spotlight from her co-stars. However, when asked about this, she responded, "I don't believe in such a statement. You should see what Chay has done with his character in Thandel. His transformation, his longing for love, his expressions, and his body language—he will impress everyone with his intense performance. Once the film is out, his role will be the highlight."

Naga Chaitanya was not the first choice for Thandel

Interestingly, Naga Chaitanya was not the first choice for the role. Producer Allu Aravind initially had reservations about casting him in such an intense, mass-centric role. However, director Chandoo Mondeti convinced the team, and the rest is history.

Thandel movie stills
Thandel movie stills

Recently, the makers released a short video showcasing Chay’s transformation for the film, and it has been receiving a tremendous response. Known as a posh, Ferrari-driving star in Telugu cinema, his portrayal of Raju, a local fisherman from Vizag, has taken everyone by surprise.

With so much hype surrounding his role—based on a real-life character—fans are eagerly waiting to see if he lives up to expectations. The film’s music is composed by DSP, and it has been produced by Bunny Vas under the GA2 Pictures banner. Netflix has bagged the OTT rights to the film. 

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