Sankranthi has always been a golden season for Telugu cinema, and 2026 is shaping up to be no different. With more than six months to go, the festival race is already heating up. Four big films—three straight Telugu releases and one dubbed, have locked their spots for the Sankranthi window and interestingly all four are targeting the family audience.
Leading the race is Jana Nayagan, the Telugu version of Thalapathy Vijay’s last film before his political plunge. Directed by H. Vinoth and produced by KVN Productions, the film dropped its teaser The First Roar today on Vijay’s birthday, confirming a January 9th release. While rumors suggest it’s loosely inspired by Bhagavanth Kesari, the makers are tight-lipped about the plot.
Next up is Mega157, starring Megastar Chiranjeevi and directed by Anil Ravipudi, who has a proven Sankranthi track record. The makers have confirmed the festival release, though the exact date is awaited. With Nayanthara as the female lead and a much likely cameo by Venkatesh, this mass entertainer is expected to draw huge crowds.
Then comes Anaganaga Oka Raju, hitting theatres on January 14th. A fun-filled rural comedy set in the Godavari region, it stars Naveen Polishetty alongside Meenakshi Chaudhary. The film promises clean comedy and feel-good emotions, ideal for the festive mood.
Wrapping up the lineup is RT76, Ravi Teja’s new project with director Kishore Tirumala. Officially launched in June, it’s said to be a family drama laced with Ravi Teja’s trademark energy. Bheems Ceciroleo is scoring the music, and the team is working on a fast track for Sankranthi.
With all four films aiming for the same audience, Sankranthi 2026 is heading toward one of the most exciting box office battles in recent times.
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