Ranabaali: Third Episode, Forgotten Warriors, Untold Stories

Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s much-awaited pan-India film Ranabaali is generating considerable buzz ahead of its grand theatrical release. Directed by Rahul Sankrityan, the film is presented by T-Series and produced by Naveen Yerneni and Y. Ravi Shankar under the Mythri Movie Makers banner.

Mounted on a lavish scale, Ranabaali is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on October 16, coinciding with the festive occasion of Vijayadashami.

As part of the promotional campaign, the makers have launched a four-episode documentary series titled “Ranabaali – Never Forget The Truth.” The third episode, titled “The Men We Forgot,” is now streaming on YouTube. In this episode, director Rahul Sankrityan opens up about the historical inspiration behind the film’s central character, Ranabaali.

According to the director, the character has been inspired by several legendary warriors from Rayalaseema who fought for their people and homeland. He specifically spoke about figures such as Budda Vengal Reddy, Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy and Gadekal Bobbili Nagireddy, whose stories continue to live on through the region’s traditional folk ballads.

Rahul Sankrityan explained that his interest in the story began after learning about Gadekal Bobbili Nagireddy. He was known for his association with horses and was believed by people to possess a spiritual connection with the divine. The director said that Nagireddy ultimately met his end as a result of conspiracies.

While researching the history of the great famine, Sankrityan also came across the remarkable story of Budda Vengal Reddy. During the famine, Vengal Reddy reportedly sold his own assets and established gruel centres to help people in need, saving the lives of thousands.

The director also highlighted the legacy of Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy, who fought against British rule and emerged as a formidable force during the struggle against the colonial regime.

Speaking about his personal connection to the region, Rahul Sankrityan said that he too belongs to the soil of Rayalaseema. He recalled witnessing people during his childhood who displayed extraordinary courage, determination and a strong desire to contribute to society.

According to the filmmaker, the physical strength, fearlessness and bravery associated with these historical figures became a major source of inspiration while designing the character of Ranabaali.

The third episode of “Ranabaali – Never Forget The Truth” offers audiences a glimpse into the historical and cultural influences behind the film. The makers are expected to announce the streaming date of the fourth and final episode, “The Last Load,” soon.

With the film arriving during the Vijayadashami festive season, Ranabaali is one of the highly anticipated pan-India releases starring Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna.