Bhairavam (2025) Review – Rating, Verdict & Box Office | Tollybo
Last updated: 10 Jul 2026
Bhairavam (2025) Review
A review of Bhairavam (2025) (Telugu action), directed by Vijay Kanakamedala. Starring Bellamkonda Srinivas, Manchu Manoj, Aditi Shankar. The relationship between three childhood friends begins to crumble as their loyalty is tested. Our Rating: 2.5/5. Verdict: BELOW AVERAGE. Released: 30 May 2025. Runtime: 2h 35m.


Bhairavam(2025)
Telugu · Action
2h 35m · 30 May 2025
Music: Sricharan Pakala | DOP: Hari K. Vedantam | Writer: Vijay Kanakamedala, Ramachandra Ragipindi, Satyarshi
Ratings
Our Rating
2.5
📖 Story
Set in the village of Devipuram, the story follows the intertwined lives of three individuals: Gajapathi (Manchu Manoj) and Varadha (Nara Rohith), close friends from powerful families, and Bantu Srinu (Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas), an orphan raised by Gajapathi's grandmother as their loyal confidant. Their bond is shattered when a corrupt minister attempts to seize 1000 acres of sacred temple land. As greed and political manipulation drive a wedge between the friends, Seenu is forced to choose between his unwavering loyalty and the path of justice, leading to a violent and spiritual confrontation.
Bhairavam, a remake of the Tamil hit 'Garudan', is a rustic action drama that attempts to balance commercial elements with a grounded, myth-inspired narrative. The film starts on a slow note, dedicating significant time to the childhood backstory and establishing the deep friendship between the leads. While the first half features neat performances and well-presented action, it is weighed down by predictable beats and unnecessary song placements that act as speed breakers.
The second half gains momentum post-interval, particularly with the twist in the 'Mamidi Thota' sequence which heightens the emotional stakes. The climax, steeped in ritualistic rage, serves as a high point for mass audiences. However, the film lacks the raw emotional depth of the original, as the director’s attempt to provide a 'commercial coating'—including a weak romantic track and forced comedy—often dilutes the intensity of the central conflict between friendship and betrayal.
Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas: Delivers a restrained and emotionally layered performance, showcasing noticeable growth; his transformation in the final act is a major highlight.
Manchu Manoj Kumar: Makes a powerful comeback with a fiery screen presence and intense dialogue delivery, though his portrayal is occasionally loud.
Naara Rohith: Brings calm control and subtle strength to his role, effectively portraying a character with multiple shades.
Aditi Shankar: Her role is underutilised and limited to a standard commercial heroine template with an artificial-sounding dubbing.
Jayasudha: Lends quiet dignity to the proceedings, anchoring the emotional core of the first half.
💪 Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- ✓Solid performances from the lead trio (Sreenivas, Manoj, and Rohith)
- ✓Impactful action choreography, especially the interval and climax
- ✓High production values and rustic visual appeal
- ✓Intense background score that elevates dramatic scenes
Weaknesses
- ✕Uneven pacing and a sluggish second half
- ✕Predictable screenplay with outdated commercial tropes
- ✕Underdeveloped female characters and weak romantic track
- ✕Lack of strong emotional connect compared to the original version
🎬 Direction & Writing
Vijay Kanakamedala succeeds in creating a visually strong rustic drama but falters in the writing department. By adding typical commercial ingredients like unnecessary songs and comedy, he misses the opportunity to craft the gripping, emotion-driven narrative that the premise of betrayal deserved.
- - Cinematography by Hari K. Vedantam effectively captures the earthy tones of the rural setting.
- - Background score by Sricharan Pakala is a major plus, providing the necessary intensity.
- - Action blocks are well-conceived and executed with flair.
- - Editing by Chota K. Prasad is uneven and could have been tighter to maintain narrative flow.
📰 Ratings Sources
| Source | Rating |
|---|---|
| 3.00 / 5 | |
| 2.50 / 5 | |
| 2.50 / 5 | |
| 2.75 / 5 | |
| 3.00 / 5 | |
| 2.50 / 5 | |
| 2.00 / 5 |
Our Rating
💰 Box Office Collection
No collection data available yet.
🏛️ Centers & 🏅 Awards
No centers data available.
No awards data available.
🏆 Records & Box Office
- - Opening Weekend: ~₹7.50 Cr Worldwide Gross
- - Final Gross: ~₹16.75 Cr
😊 Sentiment Breakdown & 🧠 Critics
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | Strong appreciation for the lead actors' performances and high-octane action scenes. |
| Neutral | The storyline was considered decent but executed in a standard commercial format. |
| Negative | Critical of the sluggish pacing, loud melodrama, and predictable screenplay. |
Critics
Critics largely viewed the film as a mixed bag. While the performances and action sequences received praise, the predictable narrative and commercial deviations were cited as drawbacks. It was generally regarded as a one-time watch for action lovers, though it failed to leave a lasting impact.
Final Box-Office Result
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
When did Bhairavam release in theatres?▾
Bhairavam released on 30 May 2025 (2025).
Is Bhairavam a hit or flop?▾
Bhairavam is declared a BELOW AVERAGE at the box office.
Where to watch Bhairavam online? OTT release date?▾
Bhairavam is available on ZEE5 from 18 July 2025.
Who directed Bhairavam?▾
Bhairavam directed by Vijay Kanakamedala. Produced by K.K. Radha Mohan.
Who are the main cast members of Bhairavam?▾
Bhairavam stars Bellamkonda Srinivas, Manchu Manoj, Aditi Shankar.
What is the Tollybo rating for Bhairavam?▾
Tollybo rates Bhairavam 2.5/5. Verdict: BELOW AVERAGE.
Who composed the music for Bhairavam?▾
Music for Bhairavam composed by Sricharan Pakala.
What is the genre and runtime of Bhairavam?▾
Bhairavam — Genre: Action, Runtime: 155 minutes, Language: Telugu.
