Cast: Abhiram, Geethika Tiwary, Rajat Bedi, Sadha, Ravi Kale, Kamal Kamaraju, Manoj Tiger, Kalpalatha, Devi Prasad
Director: Teja
Producer: P. Kiran
Ahimsa, the debut film of Abhiram, the grandson of legendary producer Dr. D. Ramanaidu and son of Suresh Babu, and Rana’s brother, has finally hit the screens after several delays. Directed by Teja, the film has garnered much anticipation with its intense teasers and trailers. While the OTT rights are yet to be finalized, the film will be available for streaming after its theatrical run.
Story:
Ahimsa revolves around a young man who strongly believes in nonviolence and how he reacts to a world plagued by corruption and violence. When a series of shocking incidents shatter his peaceful life, police officer Ekambaram (Ravi Kale) starts investigating the disappearance of a top politician named Dushyant Rao (Rajat Bedi) in Katheru village. During his investigation, he uncovers startling revelations about a young man named Raghu (Abhiram Daggubati), who adheres to nonviolence under all circumstances. The story delves into the connections between Raghu, Ahalya (Geethika Tiwary), her father (Devi Prasad), and lawyer Lakshmi (Sada).
Performances:
Abhiram Daggubati, hailing from the Daggubati family, makes a sincere effort in his debut performance. He attempts to showcase variations in his expressions and emotions. However, the character arc falls flat and lacks conviction.
Geethika Tiwary, in the female lead role, has limited opportunities to exhibit her talent. She is mostly relegated to pursuing the hero, constantly requesting lip-lock scenes in both English and Telugu styles. Apart from a dialogue supporting Lord Krishna over Gautam Buddha, she doesn’t receive any noteworthy lines.
Rajat Kale delivers an average performance as the typical antagonist. The remaining cast, including Sada, Devi Prasad, Ravi Kale, and others, fail to leave a lasting impression.
Verdict:
Overall, Ahimsa’s story bears the markings of a disaster. Teja seems to have lost touch with the changing tastes and preferences of the audience. The film feels trapped in the 90s era, and had it released in the 80s, it may not have survived. It is surprising how experienced professionals like Suresh Babu, Venkatesh, and Rana entrusted the debut of their young clan member, Abhiram, to an outdated director. It would have spared him from this humiliation if he hadn’t made his on-screen debut at all.
Teja’s failure spans across the story, screenplay, and direction. It is a downhill journey from there, and much like the death of Karna, there are several reasons for Ahimsa’s failures. Unfortunately, unlike Karna, Ahimsa lacks redeeming qualities.