Political support for Telugu films is not new, but it often becomes a talking point when a big release is approaching. Nara Lokesh has now praised Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s Ranabaali after watching its trailer ahead of its October 16 release.
Lokesh took to X to praise the film’s recreation of 19th-century Rayalaseema and its portrayal of famine and British oppression. He called Vijay “effortlessly fierce” and appreciated Rashmika’s presence, while congratulating director Rahul Sankrityan and the entire team for bringing an untold chapter of history to the screen. Vijay responded warmly, thanking Lokesh and saying the film would make people proud of their land and its history.
The tweet has also drawn attention because of a similar show of support for another much-awaited film a few weeks ago. Telangana former minister KTR publicly backed Nani’s The Paradise, praising the film before its theatrical run. However, the film eventually received mixed-to-negative reviews and failed to meet its box-office expectations.
Now, with Lokesh supporting Ranabaali, the comparison is inevitable. Some movie fans may jokingly wonder whether political leaders’ public support can become a lucky charm for films. But The Paradise’s outcome also serves as a reminder that a political endorsement can generate attention but not guarantee commercial success.
Ranabaali has its own challenges. The trailer presents a grand period setting, a fierce lead character and a story rooted in colonial oppression. Vijay’s intense appearance has attracted attention, while Rashmika adds star power. But the familiar revolutionary storyline means the film will need strong writing, emotional depth and convincing execution to stand apart.
KTR’s support could not save The Paradise from a disappointing theatrical outcome. Whether Nara Lokesh’s endorsement gives Ranabaali a different story at the box office remains to be seen.
