Tharun Bhascker on Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi: Playing the negative lead was so cool

Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi is director Tharun Bhascker’s new film as an actor. He plays the main lead in this film, which is the official remake of the Malayalam hit Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey, and is all set to hit the screens on January 30, 2026. 

I always wanted to play a negative role

Tharun reprises the role played by Basil Joseph in the original and portrays a character from the Godavari region. Speaking about the film and his role, Tharun says that despite knowing his character has negative shades, he agreed to do the film as he had long wanted to play a negative role. 

“When the offer came to me, I was surprised because my character is from the Godavari region, and I am from Telangana. This was one of the biggest challenges, but I took it head-on, as I always do, wanting to play a role with negative shades as it is so cool,” says Tharun.

Eesha Rebba plays the female lead, and her role is quite strong and central to the film. Talking about working with her, Tharun says she is the real hero of the film. 

Tharun Bhascker showers praise on Eesha Rebba

“Eesha has the best role in the film. She has come a long way in the industry and finally got a role where she can prove everyone wrong and stun audiences with her performance. We share a special bond, and that reflects on screen,” he adds.

Tharun made his directorial debut with Pelli Choopulu and later directed Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi. He is currently working on the sequel while balancing his responsibilities as both an actor and director. 

“I act purely for fun and take up films at my will. With some great work coming my way, I am choosing acting assignments carefully. I am thankful to the audience for loving my performance in Keedaa Cola, and I hope my new avatar in Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi will impress everyone,” says Tharun.

When asked whether any changes have been made to the remake, Tharun says "Yes, the climax of the film has been changed completely and its a new idea. Even I am eager to see how the audience receive it" 

The filmmaker also reveals that he plans to revive his big project with Venkatesh, which was earlier stalled for various reasons. Known for his strong youth following and new-age storytelling, Tharun hopes Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi lives up to the buzz. Those who missed the original can stream Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey on OTTplay Premium.

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Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi FAQs

Q. When will Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi be released?

A. The family drama hits the screens on January 30, 2026

Q. Who is the director of Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi?

A. A. R. Sajeev has directed the film, which is the remake of the Malayalam hit Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey 

Q. Where to stream Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi on OTT?

A. The OTT platform is yet to be locked