Anushka Shetty’s Fierce Comeback in a Gritty Revenge Saga
By NRIGlobe Entertainment Desk
Published: September 5, 2025
Anushka Shetty makes a much-anticipated return to the silver screen with Ghaati, a multilingual action-crime drama directed by Krish Jagarlamudi. Released on September 5, 2025, in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi, this film has sparked buzz for its raw narrative and Anushka’s bold new avatar. Set against the rugged backdrop of the Eastern Ghats, Ghaati promises a tale of betrayal, survival, and transformation. Does it live up to the hype? Here’s our take.
Plot: A Tale of Vengeance and Redemption
Ghaati centers on Sheelavathi (Anushka Shetty), a woman betrayed by her trusted business partners within the notorious Ghaati tribe, known for its cannabis cultivation and smuggling. Stripped of her identity and security, Sheelavathi transforms her pain into power, evolving from a victim to a feared criminal and, ultimately, a legend. The story weaves tribal culture, smuggling intrigues, and mythic undertones, drawing parallels to Maa Sita’s fierce resolve in a modern, gritty context.
The narrative follows a familiar revenge-drama arc but stands out with its unique setting and focus on Sheelavathi’s emotional and physical transformation. Supporting characters, including Desi Raju (Vikram Prabhu) and antagonists like Kundala Naidu (Chaitanya Rao), add layers to the story, though the screenplay occasionally struggles to balance their arcs.
Performances: Anushka Steals the Show
Anushka Shetty is the heart and soul of Ghaati. Her portrayal of Sheelavathi is intense, raw, and commanding, showcasing a side of the actress rarely seen before. Known for iconic roles in Baahubali and Arundhati, Anushka delivers a performance that blends emotional depth with fierce action sequences. Her rugged look and powerful screen presence make her transformation believable, though some critics note her limited emotional range in certain scenes.
Vikram Prabhu, making his Telugu debut as Desi Raju, delivers a sincere performance, bringing emotional weight to the first half. However, his character’s prominence sometimes overshadows Sheelavathi’s, which may leave fans wanting more of Anushka. Jagapathi Babu, in a brief but impactful role, adds gravitas, while Chaitanya Rao’s antagonist feels underwritten and fails to pose a significant threat. The supporting cast, including Jisshu Sengupta and Larissa Bonesi, blends well into the tribal milieu but lacks standout moments.
Direction and Technical Aspects
Krish Jagarlamudi, known for films like Vedam and Kanche, brings his signature gritty storytelling to Ghaati. His choice to embrace the unpolished textures of the Ghaati region lends authenticity, with Manojh Reddy Katasani’s cinematography capturing the rugged landscapes beautifully. The mythological undertones—likening Sheelavathi’s journey to a modern-day epic—are subtle yet effective, adding depth without overpowering the narrative.
However, the pacing falters at times. The first half feels stretched, with some scenes lacking momentum, while the second half picks up with intense action but occasionally slips into predictable territory. Nagavelli Vidya Sagar’s background score is a mixed bag—powerful in action sequences but overly loud in quieter moments, detracting from the film’s emotional core. The editing by Chanakya Reddy Toorupu is functional but could have been tighter to maintain narrative flow.
What Works and What Doesn’t
Ghaati shines in its unique backdrop and Anushka’s commanding performance. The film’s exploration of tribal culture and smuggling rackets adds freshness to the revenge-drama genre. The action sequences, particularly in the second half, are well-choreographed, with Anushka’s “Kateramma” moments earning whistles from fans.
On the downside, the screenplay lacks the depth expected from Krish, with some subplots feeling underdeveloped. The villains are one-dimensional, and the film misses opportunities for more impactful dialogues or emotional highs. The music, while serviceable, doesn’t elevate the experience as much as it could, with the background score occasionally overwhelming the narrative.
Audience Reactions
Early reactions on social media, particularly from US and UK premieres, are mixed. Fans have lauded Anushka’s action-packed performance, with one X user calling it “one of the wildest performances in her career” and praising the “crazy fight episodes” in the second half. Others, however, found the storytelling predictable, with one review labeling it “a poor man’s Pushpa” due to its familiar rustic action-drama beats. The consensus seems to be that while Anushka’s star power carries the film, the execution doesn’t always match the ambition.
Final Verdict
Ghaati is a watchable action drama that thrives on Anushka Shetty’s fierce return and a unique cultural backdrop. Despite its flaws—uneven pacing, underwritten antagonists, and inconsistent music—it delivers as a mass entertainer with moments of emotional resonance. Krish Jagarlamudi’s vision and Anushka’s performance make it worth a watch for fans and those who enjoy gritty revenge sagas. For the global Indian audience, Ghaati offers a blend of raw action and cultural intrigue, even if it doesn’t fully soar to epic heights.
Rating: 3/5
Bottom Line: Anushka Shetty’s star power and a fresh setting make Ghaati a compelling, if imperfect, comeback. Perfect for fans craving action with a touch of mythos.
NRIGlobe recommends watching it in theaters for the full experience of Anushka’s mass avatar!
