Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu is the latest film directed by Anil Ravipudi, starring Megastar Chiranjeevi in the lead role. The movie also features Nayanthara as the female lead, with Venkatesh appearing in a guest role. Produced under the banners Shine Screens and Gold Box Entertainments, the film’s catchy “Meesala Pilla” song and festive release for Sankranti generated strong buzz prior to release. Let’s see how the film fares.

Plot Summary

Shankara Vara Prasad (Chiranjeevi) works as an officer in the National Security Agency, while his wife Shashirekha (Nayanthara) is a successful businesswoman managing her father GVR’s (Sachin Khedekar) empire. The couple has been separated for 10 years, and Prasad feels deeply hurt as he’s been kept away from his children.

Determined to reconnect with them, he joins their school as a PT master under disguise. He gradually wins over his kids, who start wishing for such a father in their lives. To get closer to them and Shashirekha again, Prasad re-enters their household as a security officer when an unexpected threat looms.

Meanwhile, Virendra Panda (Sudev Nair), a suspended police officer turned criminal, is released from jail and sets out to harm Shashirekha and her family. Why did Prasad and Shashirekha separate? Will Prasad succeed in reuniting his family? What’s Virendra Panda’s motive, and how does Venky Gowda (Venkatesh) fit into this story? The film unfolds around these questions.

Analysis

Anil Ravipudi is known for his light-hearted entertainers rather than heavy emotional dramas or complex stories. His focus has always been on keeping audiences entertained with continuous humor and breezy storytelling — and Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu is no exception.

He smartly brings Chiranjeevi — usually seen in action-heavy roles — into his signature comedy zone. Chiru’s comedic timing and charm elevate the fun quotient. The inclusion of Venkatesh as Venky Gowda adds to the humor, making their combination scenes particularly lively.

The first half moves briskly with fun sequences like the PT master disguise, Prasad’s interactions with his kids, and the comical “adoption” episode involving Bulliraju (Sugunesh). The second half picks up energy with Chiru and Venky’s dynamic combo, though the villain track feels underwhelming compared to Chiranjeevi’s dominance.

Performances

Chiranjeevi shines in three shades — as a national officer, husband, and father. His youthful look and energy, especially in casual outfits, are sure to please fans. Nayanthara brings elegance and balance to her role as a strong yet emotional mother. Venkatesh’s cameo as Venky Gowda is a major attraction, infusing humor and nostalgia.

Sudev Nair does a decent job but lacks the intensity needed for a powerful villain opposite the Megastar. Supporting actors like Catherine Tresa and Harsha Vardhan contribute well to the flow.

Technical Aspects

Sameer Reddy’s cinematography deserves praise — Chiranjeevi’s stylish visuals, particularly in the “Shashirekha” song, are impressive. Bheems Ceciroleo’s music and background score instantly connect with the audience, maintaining the festive mood. Editor Tammiraju keeps the pace tight, avoiding unnecessary scenes.

The dialogue — “If your husband is foolish, you can leave him, but don’t make someone a fool just to leave him” — stands out as one of the film’s memorable lines. Anil Ravipudi’s direction once again ensures laughter and energy throughout.

Final Verdict

Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu isn’t a story-heavy or emotional film — it’s a clean, lighthearted family entertainer filled with fun, music, and festive charm. Anil Ravipudi’s comic touch, Chiranjeevi’s youthful screen presence, and Venkatesh’s delightful cameo make this a cheerful Sankranti treat.