Anaganaga Oka Raju
Anaganaga Oka Raju is a 2026 Indian Telugu-language comedy drama film directed by Maari. Produced by Suryadevara Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya, under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas, the film stars Naveen Polishetty and Meenakshi Chaudhary. It was released on 14 January 2026, coinciding with Sankranthi''.''
Production
Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas announced the project in September 2021, with Kalyan Shankar set to make his supposed directorial debut, featuring Naveen Polishetty in the lead role. In January 2022, the title of the film Anaganaga Oka Raju was unveiled by the makers. Initially, Thaman S was announced as the music composer, but was replaced by Mickey J. Meyer. In 2023, it was reported that director Kalyan Shankar was replaced by Maari due to creative differences between the makers. Initially, Sreeleela was considered for the female lead, before Meenakshi Chaudhary was confirmed as the female lead in December 2024. The filming began in February 2025 and was completed within a six-month schedule.Music
The music was composed by Mickey J. Meyer. The audio rights of the film were acquired by Aditya Music. The first single, titled "Bhimavaram Balma", was released on 27 November 2025. It marked Naveen Polishetty's debut as a singer. The second single, titled "Raju Gaari Pelli Ro", was released on 26 December 2025.Release
Anaganaga Oka Raju was released on 14 January 2026.Home Media
The film's streaming platform will be on NetflixReception
Critical reception
Risha Ganguly of Times Now rated the film 3.5/5 stars and wrote, "Anaganaga Oka Raju is an entertaining, one-man comedy carried almost entirely by Naveen Polishetty. While the story is predictable and the writing uneven, sharp dialogues, situational humour, and energetic songs make it a more than decent festive watch." Sandeep Athreya of Sakshi Post rated the film 3.25/5 stars and wrote, "It may not be Polishetty’s funniest outing yet, but his presence alone makes it an enjoyable ride."Suresh Kavirayani of Cinema Express rated the film 3/5 stars and wrote, "Like his earlier films, Naveen Polishetty dominates the show with his natural performance and humour. Though a few scenes in the second half feel dragged, the film delivers enough laughs to keep the audience entertained." Sangeetha Devi Dundoo of The Hindu wrote, "Anaganaga Oka Raju could have benefitted with sharper, crisper writing. Despite the uneven narrative, Naveen’s comic timing and Meenakshi’s graceful screen presence make the film immensely watchable."
Swaroop Kodur of The Indian Express rated the film 3/5 stars and wrote, "Naveen Polishetty strikes good form yet again and shoulders a simple, low-stakes comedy-drama entirely on his own." Sruthi Ganapathy Raman of The Hollywood Reporter India wrote, "A light hand at writing and a hilarious Naveen Polishetty largely carry this film through a slippery second half." Sashidhar Adivi of Filmfare rated the film 3/5 stars and wrote, "Anaganaga Oka Raju is a crackling entertainer that thrives on Naveen Polishetty’s impeccable comic timing and infectious energy."
Jalapathi Gudelli of Telugucinema.com gave the film 2.75/5 stars and wrote, "Anaganaga Oka Raju offers a few funny one-liners and occasional hilarious moments, but it is weighed down by familiarity and dragging portions. It works as a time-pass entertainer, yet offers nothing new." BVS Prakash of Deccan Chronicle wrote, "Naveen Polishetty is effective in light-hearted roles and once again livens up the screen with his swag and humour. However, even his charm cannot salvage the weak story, especially as the second half drags."