Can Young Telugu Heroes Succeed in the ‘Mass’ Genre?

In Telugu cinema, heroes are often classified based on their market value—ranging from high-range superstars to medium and low-tier actors. While every actor aspires to break into the top league, mass-action films often serve as a crucial stepping stone. Now, a new wave of young heroes seems eager to establish themselves in the ‘mass’ genre.

Actors like Siddhu Jonnalagadda, Sai Dharam Tej, and Naveen Polishetty have carved their own niche with unique performances. However, their upcoming projects hint at a shift towards mass-action films.

• Naveen Polishetty, known for his carefully chosen blockbuster projects, is gearing up for Anaganaga Oka Raju, which carries mass elements.

• Siddhu Jonnalagadda, who expanded his market with the DJ Tillu franchise, is eyeing a next-level breakthrough. While Jack and Telusu Kada are romantic dramas, his upcoming film with Ravikanth Perepu aims to elevate his mass appeal.

• Sai Dharam Tej has consistently experimented with mass films but has struggled to solidify his standing in the genre. With SYG – Sambarala Yeti Gattu, he hopes to turn the tide.

However, this strategy comes with risks. Vishwaksen attempted a similar transition with Mechanic Rocky and Gangs of Godavari, but they failed to click with audiences. The question remains: With established superstars already dominating the mass genre, will audiences embrace these young actors in the same space, or do they prefer to see them in unique, content-driven films? Only time will tell.