Nagarjuna-RGV’s Cult Classic ‘SHIVA’ Set for Historic Re-Release in Dolby Atmos and 4K

More than three decades after its release, Ram Gopal Varma’s iconic film SHIVA is returning to the big screen in a brand-new avatar. Annapurna Studios has announced that the re-release will hit theatres on August 14, coinciding with the release of Coolie, where audiences will also get to watch the first re-release teaser.

The cult classic, which originally redefined Indian cinema with its raw intensity and realistic action sequences, has undergone a complete sound transformation. For the first time, the original mono soundtrack has been converted to Dolby Atmos using advanced AI technology. Along with the new sound mix, the film will also be presented in 4K resolution.

The re-release is part of Annapurna Studios’ 50th anniversary celebrations. Speaking about the milestone, lead actor Akkineni Nagarjuna said, “SHIVA gave me an iconic hero status, and my character remains unforgettable even today. Venkat Akkineni, RGV, and I felt it was time to bring it back for both the loyal audience who made it a cult classic and the younger generation who may have only seen it online. Now, they can experience it in theatres with Dolby Atmos and 4K visuals.”

Director Ram Gopal Varma expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s unbelievable that people still remember every scene and character from SHIVA. The original sound was well-received at the time, but for this release, we wanted to match today’s audio standards. By using advanced AI technology, we have recreated the soundtrack in Dolby Atmos. People might have seen SHIVA before, but no one has experienced it like this.”

Upon its original release, SHIVA broke box office records, won widespread critical acclaim, and earned a spot in CNN-IBN’s list of the Top 100 Indian Films of All Time. With its upgraded sound and visuals, Annapurna Studios is hoping the film will once again captivate audiences when it returns to theatres on August 14.