Ram Gopal Varma Applauds Rao Bahadur After Sukumar, Calls It “Locally International!”

Presented by Superstar Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar’s GMB Entertainment, Rao Bahadur is a psychological thriller helmed by director Venkatesh Maha and starring Satya Dev. Jointly produced by A+S Movies and SriChakraas Entertainments, the film is now running in theatres.

Backed by Superstar Mahesh Babu, Rao Bahadur has arrived in cinemas as one of the most highly anticipated Telugu releases of the year. The psychological thriller, featuring a powerhouse performance by Satya Dev, had already piqued immense curiosity with its atmospheric and enigmatic teaser. Since making its big-screen debut, the film has struck a chord with viewers, capturing widespread acclaim from film critics, audiences, and industry insiders alike for its razor-sharp writing, technical brilliance, and standout acting.

The film continues to receive praise from some of Indian cinema’s most respected filmmakers. After acclaimed director Sukumar lauded Rao Bahadur, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has now joined the chorus of appreciation. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Varma hailed the film, calling it “locally international” and applauded every aspect of its filmmaking.

He wrote, “I don’t HATE @mahaisnotanoun for making #RaoBahadur and not making @ActorSatyaDev act — who didn’t act, but DISAPPEARED into the character in multiple DISSOLVES … The makeup, costumes, production design make every frame look LOCALLY INTERNATIONAL … 99% of films are made from MEMORY of other films but #RaoBahadur is made from ZERO MEMORY IMAGINATION and OPTIMAL LEVEL CONVICTION”

https://x.com/rgvzoomin/status/2073079170188587022?s=46&t=KmaudF5Io_IE9Iqfx170Yw

Rao Bahadur blends psychological drama with the fading echoes of an aristocratic past. Venkatesh Maha, who handles writing, direction, and editing, seems to be shaping a story that is deeply rooted in local sensibilities while carrying universal emotional resonance.

The film is backed by a strong technical team, with Kartik Parmar handling cinematography, Smaran Sai composing the music, and Rohan Singh crafting the film’s distinctive production design.

With its blend of regal imagery and cryptic undertones, Rao Bahadur is a film that draws audiences into a world where every detail may hold deeper meaning. Rao Bahadur released in cinemas worldwide on July 3, 2026.

By Keerti Kadam