The landscape of Tollywood is changing, and it's not just about the heroes anymore. Leading actresses are increasingly demanding and securing prominent roles that showcase their strength and versatility. This shift towards female-centric narratives has sparked a wave of exciting projects, proving that Tollywood is ready to embrace stories that center around women.

While these actresses continue to grace the screen in commercial films, they are actively seeking out projects that empower women and challenge traditional narratives. This trend is not just a passing fad; it reflects a growing demand for stories that celebrate female strength, ambition, and resilience.

Here's a look at some of the leading ladies and their upcoming female-centric projects:

Anushka Shetty, a seasoned veteran, returns to the forefront with "Ghaati," her 50th film. This Krish Jagarlamudi directorial promises a powerful portrayal of a woman who transforms from victim to criminal, highlighting the complexities of human nature.

Rashmika Mandanna, the "National Crush," is breaking into the realm of female-driven narratives with "Rainbow," a bilingual Telugu-Tamil film directed by Shanthruban. She's also starring in "The Girl Friend," a Geetha Arts production directed by Rahul Ravindran.

Anupama Parameswaran, known for her charm in "Premam," is diving headfirst into the world of female-centric films with "Parada," directed by Praveen Kandregula. She's also taking on "Octopus," a Prashanth Varma directorial, alongside other projects like "Bison," "JSK," and "Pet Detective."

Keerthy Suresh, acclaimed for her National Award-winning performance in "Mahanati," continues to champion female-driven narratives with "Kannivedi" from Dream Warrior Pictures. She also has "Raghutatha" and "Revolver Rita" in the pipeline, along with a Bollywood debut in "Baby Jaan."

Kajal Aggarwal, the "Chandamama," is set to star in "Uma," a female-oriented project she announced years ago. Her recent performance in "Satyabhama" showcased her ability to portray strong female characters.

Tamannaah Bhatia, known for her versatility, is currently working on "Odela 2," a sequel to "Odela Railway Station." She's also part of a supernatural thriller directed by Ashok Teja, featuring Hebba Patel.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu, who previously showcased her strength in films like "O Baby" and "Yashoda," is making a strong comeback with a pan-India female-centric film titled "Ma Inti Bangaram." Produced under her own banner, Tralala Moving Pictures, this project promises to be a powerful exploration of female agency.

Nayanthara, the "Lady Superstar," consistently chooses films that celebrate women and challenge stereotypes. Her dedication to such roles has inspired a generation of actresses.

This wave of female-centric films marks a significant shift in Tollywood. It's a testament to the growing awareness of the need for more diverse and empowering narratives. As these projects hit the screen, we can expect to see fresh perspectives, nuanced portrayals, and captivating stories that resonate with a wider audience. This is a time of exciting change for Tollywood, where women are no longer confined to supporting roles but are taking center stage, ready to tell their own stories.