Introduction
Sri Chidambaram Garu is a Telugu film directed by debutant Vinay Ratnam. The movie presents a sensitive love story blended with inspiration and realism. Starring Vamsi Thummala in the lead role, with Sandhya Vashishta as the female lead, the film focuses on self-acceptance, inner strength, and overcoming personal fears. The director shares his thoughts through an end card, setting the emotional tone for the entire narrative.
Plot Summary
Chidambaram, also known as Salman (Vamsi Thummala), suffers from a squint eye since birth. Due to constant humiliation and ridicule during childhood, he grows up with deep-rooted inferiority and fear. To hide his physical flaw, he always wears dark glasses, day and night. After his father Poorna Paul (Kittaiah) commits suicide, Chidambaram quits his studies to repay his father’s debts and works as a construction laborer.
Leela (Sandhya Vashishta), a girl from the same village, genuinely loves Chidambaram. Though he loves her too, his lack of confidence stops him from expressing his feelings. When he finally confesses, Leela asks him to first love himself and face the world without hiding behind glasses. Hurt by her words, Chidambaram distances himself from her.
What steps does he take to overcome his physical and mental limitations? Does he regain his confidence? Do Chidambaram and Leela unite? The rest of the story unfolds on screen.
Analysis
The film revolves around the inspiring idea that disability belongs to the body, not the mind. Everyone has flaws, but success lies in transforming them into strengths. Director Vinay Ratnam weaves a simple yet heartfelt love story around this concept, supported by natural characters and scenic locations.
Such sensitive, emotion-driven films are often seen in Malayalam cinema, especially with beautiful Kerala backdrops. Sri Chidambaram Garu stands as a perfect answer to those who feel such films are not made in Telugu. The storytelling is honest, calm, and free from unnecessary drama.
The first half flows smoothly, covering childhood incidents, the father’s death, love moments between the lead pair, and light-hearted scenes involving Vikas gang. The second half focuses on Chidambaram’s efforts to overcome his condition, his realization, and emotionally rich sequences at a friend’s house in Rajahmundry. The emotional depth increases steadily, leading to touching flag scenes that stay with the audience.
Performances
Vamsi Thummala delivers a commendable performance as Chidambaram alias Salman. Portraying a character with a squint eye is challenging, and he handles it with restraint and sincerity. His body language and emotional expressions feel authentic.
Sandhya Vashishta shines as Leela, portraying a village girl with natural charm. Her confidence, dialogue delivery, and innocence make her character instantly likable. Tulasi and Kalpalatha, as the mothers, bring maturity and realism to their roles. YouTuber Gopi, as Suresh, adds light-hearted moments and humor.
Technical Aspects
Chandu Ravi’s music and background score elevate the emotional impact of the film. The songs, rich in lyrical value, enhance the narrative. A song sung by Keeravani stands out as a powerful inspirational piece that captures the essence of the story.
Akshay Ram Podishetty’s cinematography is visually pleasing, with every frame reflecting finesse. The sequences shot in Maredumilli are particularly beautiful. For a debut film, Vinay Ratnam’s direction shows remarkable clarity, humility, and confidence. The producer deserves appreciation for trusting a new team and backing such a content-driven film.
Final Verdict
Sri Chidambaram Garu is a sincere and emotionally rich love story that gently conveys the importance of self-belief and acceptance. Watching the film feels like spending time in a peaceful village surrounded by nature and warm-hearted people.
Just like enjoying a chilled Rajahmundry rose milk on a summer evening or sleeping peacefully on a cot under a cool breeze, this film offers comfort, calmness, and heartfelt joy.those who believe only Malayalam cinema delivers such sensitive emotional stories will surely be surprised. Audiences will connect deeply with Chidambaram alias Salman and carry respect for the character long after the film ends.
'Sri Chidambaram Garu' Movie Review
Movie Details
Movie Name: Sri Chidambaram Garu
Release Date: 2026-02-06
Cast: Vamsi Tummala, Sandhya Vasishta,Gopinath, Sivakumar Matta, Kalpalatha Garllapati, Arun Kumar, Tulasi, Naidu Moram, Shankar Rao
Director: Vinay Ratnam
Music: Chandu, Ravi
Banner: Sri Chakras Entertainment
Review By: Maduri Madhu
Disclaimer:
This review is based on the reviewer’s individual perspective. Audience opinions may vary.
Trailer