Aiming to produce and support rooted content and filmmakers from the heartlands of Telugu states, India’s leading OTT platform ZEE5, is now focusing on supporting local, authentic stories. Kicking off this journey, ZEE5 Telugu is launching “Mothevari Love Story”, a dramedy set in rural Telangana. Written and directed by Shiva Krishna Burra, the series will premiere exclusively on ZEE5 starting August 8.
Starring YouTube sensation Anil Geela and Varshini in lead roles, Mothevari Love Story is set in Arepalli village and follows Parshi (Anil Geela), who falls in love with a girl from a neighbouring village. Their innocent romance takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of two elderly men, leading to a land dispute that triggers a series of humorous and emotional events.
Mothevari Love Story also stars Muralidhar, Sadanna, Sujatha, and others in prominent roles. The series is produced by Madhura Sreedhar and Sriram Srikanth, with Sreekanth Arupula handling cinematography, Anil Geela as the editor, and Charan Arjun composing the music. Sriram Prashanth and Anil Geela served as Executive Producers.
Earlier today, the first four episodes of the series were screened for select media members and audiences in Hyderabad, receiving a warm and positive response. The cast and crew were present at the premiere, and renowned philanthropist Kandakatla Siddu Reddy graced the event as the chief guest.
Speaking at the event, Siddu Reddy shared, “Mothevari Love Story doesn’t feel like a web series, it feels like a movie. These creators come from the very sands of the Telangana heartland. The story starts light but builds emotional depth by the fourth episode. I hope Anil and his team continue to bring such rooted stories to life.”
Lead actor Anil Geela said, “This is not just six months of work—it’s an eight-year journey. Our My Village Show team worked selflessly. With Madhura Sreedhar garu’s push, the project picked up pace. Four episodes were screened today, and all seven episodes will be released on August 8. Our rural audience will contribute greatly to ZEE5 subscriptions this year.”
Lead actress Varshini said, “Thanks to Shiva garu for trusting me. Please watch the show, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.”
Producer Madhura Sreedhar Reddy stated, “ZEE5 supporting such rooted stories is commendable. Every actor, especially Sadanna, shines in this project. I’ve known Charan Arjun since Sneha Geetham, and I’m happy to see him compose music for this.”
Producer Sriram Srikanth noted, “Initially, I planned to produce this alone. But with an OTT platform like ZEE5 involved, I needed support. That’s when Madhura Sreedhar garu came in. Charan Arjun is another pillar of the show. I believe Mothevari Love Story is a stepping stone toward building a Pixar-like banner from a village.”
ZEE5 Telugu’s Vice President Deshraj Sai Teja said, “Last year, we envisioned telling rooted stories from every region. Telugu has many dialects, and every region deserves a story. When we thought of this idea, My Village Show came to mind. We collaborated with Anil earlier on Hello World, and now on Mothevari Love Story. We urge everyone to watch it on ZEE5 and not resort to piracy. We’re also launching a writers’ room to support storytellers from across the Telugu states. We want more Anil Geelas and Gangavvas to emerge.”
Music Director Charan Arjun stated, “People ask why I don’t work with big heroes, now I can say I’ve worked with a future star, Anil. Everyone in this show is a hero. I’m glad audiences are connecting with the music.”
Cinematographer Srikanth Arupula added, “Director Shiva couldn’t attend as he’s busy with re-recording. We’ve been working day and night for the past week. This story is close to our hearts.”
Lyricist Ganguprasad said, “Anil and Shiva gave me my first chance. Charan Anna guided me in songwriting. I hope for more such opportunities.”
Actress Manasi expressed gratitude by saying, “Though I’m not fluent in Telugu, Shiva believed in me and trained me in the dialect.”
Actor Raju also shared his happiness of being a part of this show by stating, “This is my first project with ZEE5. I’m thankful for the opportunity.”
Actor Sadanna said, “Thank you for this opportunity. I hope more such rural stories follow.”
Actor Ravichandra shared, “I’m a priest by profession. I thank Anil for this opportunity. Everyone on this stage has a bright future.”
The team also interacted with the media after the screening. Here are the excerpts:
*Q: The show feels like a film. Was it ever considered for theatrical release?*
*Anil:* It was a pre-approved web series script by ZEE5, but we always dreamt of making content for the big screen. That’s why it feels cinematic—thanks to Charan Arjun’s music and Srikanth’s visuals.
*Q: What sets *Mothevari Love Story apart from other village-based stories?**
*Anil:* Three things—raw performances by non-actors, cinematography that feels cinematic, bringing out the true visuals of rural Telangana, and authentic dialects spoken naturally.
*Q: How do you feel about the journey from YouTube to OTT and now toward cinema?*
*Anil:* It’s been possible only because of the team’s and audience’s unwavering support.
*Q: What are ZEE5’s future plans for regional content?*
*Deshraj Sai Teja:* While we are known for thrillers, we want to explore multiple genres. Mothevari Love Story is set in Karimnagar. Our next projects will be based in Nellore and Bhimavaram, capturing different backdrops and introducing new talent.
