Vijay Deverakonda Opens Up About Ranabaali: ‘We Made This Film With a Purpose’

October 10, 2026 Published by rajeshe092eb6a68

Vijay Deverakonda is gearing up for the release of his ambitious pan-India film Ranabaali, which promises to explore a lesser-known chapter of Indian history. Starring Rashmika Mandanna as the female lead, the film is directed by Rahul Sankrityan and produced by Naveen Yerneni and Y. Ravi Shankar under the Mythri Movie Makers banner. Presented by T-Series, the film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on October 16, coinciding with Vijayadashami.

In a recent interview, Vijay Deverakonda spoke at length about the film’s historical background, its creative vision, the extensive preparation involved, and why he believes stories about India’s past deserve greater attention.

Ranabaali Is More Than a Commercial Entertainer

Vijay revealed that Ranabaali was made with a specific purpose rather than simply to entertain audiences. He explained that learning about the hardships and injustices suffered by Indians during British rule deeply affected him and strengthened his belief that cinema can bring forgotten historical stories to the forefront.

According to the actor, many aspects of India’s colonial history remain unfamiliar to younger generations. He believes that understanding these events is essential to understanding the country’s present and future.

Vijay also expressed hope that the film could encourage more filmmakers to explore lesser-known historical events and the lives of warriors who resisted oppression.

Vijay Deverakonda Discusses British Rule and Forgotten History

One of the major themes Vijay discussed was the impact of British colonial rule on ordinary Indians. He spoke about historical famines, the exploitation of local resources and the difficult conditions endured by people during that period.

The actor pointed out that railway infrastructure was also used to transport resources such as grain, cotton and gold from India to ports. He argued that conventional accounts of history often focus on battles and political developments while giving less attention to the suffering of ordinary people.

Vijay further explained how divisions among Indian rulers, internal conflicts and colonial strategies helped the British gradually expand their control over different kingdoms.

Through Ranabaali, the team aims to portray these historical circumstances and encourage audiences to look beyond familiar textbook accounts of the past.

Folk Songs and Local Warriors Inspired Ranabaali

Vijay revealed that the film draws inspiration from the stories of historical warriors whose bravery and sacrifices were preserved through folk songs and local traditions.

Director Rahul Sankrityan once shared a video recorded at a jatara in Anantapur, featuring people singing folk songs about historical warriors. That cultural reference became an important source of inspiration for the film, which also opens with a folk song.

The actor explained that the film seeks to recreate the atmosphere of villages during that period while highlighting regional culture, the struggles of ordinary people and the courage of those who stood up against oppression.

He also stressed that the promotional campaign is intended to communicate the film’s actual tone rather than create hype through disconnected scenes.

Vijay Deverakonda’s Transformation for Ranabaali

Playing Ranabaali required Vijay to undergo extensive preparation, particularly for the Rayalaseema dialect and horse riding.

The actor revealed that he practised the dialect and dialogues for two to three months to ensure authenticity. Having studied in Puttaparthi for ten years, he already had some familiarity with the regional accent, but he worked further to refine his delivery for the character.

Vijay also explained that director Rahul wanted the protagonist to speak with the force and intensity associated with warriors of that era. Unlike characters who communicate through minimal dialogue, Ranabaali has a strong and commanding voice.

The actor said the director adopted a realistic, mass-oriented approach to the character and the film’s overall presentation.

Action Sequences Designed to Reflect the Period

Vijay revealed that the action sequences were designed to reflect the harsh realities of the historical setting. He noted that conflicts during those times could quickly become matters of life and death, making a restrained portrayal unsuitable for the story.

However, the team chose the level of violence according to the film’s narrative requirements rather than depicting every historical atrocity on screen.

With a runtime of approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, Ranabaali aims to deliver an immersive theatrical experience built around storytelling, emotional depth and intense action.

Vijay expressed confidence that audiences would become immersed in the film’s world within the first few minutes.

Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s Emotional Chemistry

Rashmika Mandanna plays Jayamma, the female lead in Ranabaali. Vijay revealed that Rahul Sankrityan suggested her for the role, and he agreed that she was the right choice.

The actor said their characters share a strong emotional and dramatic connection that plays an important role in the story. He also believes their real-life familiarity adds another dimension to their on-screen performances.

Vijay explained that he wanted their collaboration to be part of something special, making Ranabaali a significant project for both actors.

The film also features Arnold Vosloo in an important role.

No Ticket Price Hikes for Ranabaali

In a notable statement, Vijay Deverakonda said there would be no ticket price hikes for Ranabaali or his upcoming films, with the exception of a possible collaboration with director S. S. Rajamouli.

Recalling his college days, the actor said he had experienced disappointment when higher ticket prices prevented him from watching certain films. He explained that this experience influenced his view on cinema accessibility.

Vijay believes audiences should be able to watch films without being discouraged by increased ticket prices.

Vijay Deverakonda Confident About Ranabaali’s Success

Vijay expressed strong confidence in Ranabaali and credited Rahul Sankrityan for shaping the film’s vision, casting and storytelling. He described the director as the driving force behind the project.

The actor hopes the film will leave audiences discussing Indian history, regional culture and the sacrifices of forgotten warriors even after they leave theatres.

With its historical backdrop, Rayalaseema setting, intense action and the pairing of Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna, Ranabaali is positioning itself as one of the notable theatrical releases scheduled for October 16.

The film’s reception will ultimately depend on how effectively it combines its historical themes with engaging cinematic storytelling.