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‘Sankranthiki Vasthunam’, the Telugu family entertainer starring Venkatesh Daggubati and directed by Anil Ravipudi, has been a significant crowd-puller in theaters since its release on January 14, 2025. As the movie continues to enjoy a decent box office run, the anticipation for its digital release is steadily growing. With the rise of OTT platforms, Sankranthiki Vasthunam is set to reach an even wider audience with its streaming debut on ZEE5. Here’s everything you need to know about the film’s OTT release.
A Strong Theatrical Run
Released during the Sankranthi festival, Sankranthiki Vasthunam has made an impression with its light-hearted narrative and engaging performances. The film collected approximately ₹15 crore nett in India on its opening day and has since performed well, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
The story, which combines family dynamics, humor, and a touch of suspense, has resonated with audiences seeking festive entertainment. Lead actor Venkatesh’s portrayal of ACP Y.D. Raju has been widely appreciated, along with commendable performances by Aishwarya Rajesh and Meenakshi Chaudhary.
OTT Platform and Streaming Rights
According to reports, the streaming rights for Sankranthiki Vasthunam have been acquired by ZEE5, a platform known for its extensive collection of Telugu content. ZEE5 has been expanding its footprint in regional cinema and has become a go-to destination for Telugu film enthusiasts worldwide.
The movie’s OTT release will make it accessible to audiences who missed the theatrical experience or wish to revisit the film at their convenience.
Expected OTT Release Date
While the exact streaming date has not been officially confirmed, industry insiders suggest that Sankranthiki Vasthunam will premiere on ZEE5 by mid-February 2025. Typically, Telugu films follow a four-to-six-week gap between their theatrical release and digital debut, making this timeline likely.
Satellite Rights and TV Premiere
Apart from its OTT release, the film’s satellite rights have been secured by Zee Telugu and Zee Cinemalu. Following its digital run, the film will be telecast on these channels, allowing television viewers to enjoy it as part of their Sankranthi festivities.
Why the OTT Release Matters
The OTT debut of Sankranthiki Vasthunam is significant for several reasons:
1. Wider Reach
The film’s digital release will allow audiences across the globe to access it, especially the Telugu diaspora in countries like the U.S., U.K., and Australia. With subtitles available, the film also has the potential to attract non-Telugu-speaking viewers.
2. Repeat Viewings
OTT platforms provide the convenience of re-watching favorite moments. Fans of Venkatesh and Anil Ravipudi’s unique brand of humor will undoubtedly enjoy reliving the film’s comedic and emotional beats.
3. Convenience and Accessibility
For viewers who prefer home entertainment over the theatrical experience, the OTT release is an excellent opportunity to catch the film.
Plot Summary: A Festive Entertainer
Sankranthiki Vasthunam revolves around ACP Y.D. Raju (Venkatesh), a retired police officer living a peaceful life with his wife, Bhagyalakshmi (Aishwarya Rajesh). Their quiet existence is disrupted when Raju’s ex-girlfriend, Meenakshi (Meenakshi Chaudhary), now a serving IPS officer, seeks his help in solving a high-profile kidnapping case.
As Raju reluctantly re-enters the world of crime-solving, Bhagyalakshmi becomes suspicious of his interactions with Meenakshi and decides to join the investigation. The resulting story is a mix of comedy, drama, and suspense, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Sankranthi celebrations.
Performances and Reception
The film has been praised for its performances, particularly Venkatesh’s ability to balance humor and emotional depth. Aishwarya Rajesh and Meenakshi Chaudhary also deliver strong performances, adding complexity to the story.
Critics and audiences have highlighted the film’s first half as engaging and entertaining, though some felt that the second half relied too much on exaggerated humor.
What to Expect from the ZEE5 Release
Viewers who plan to watch Sankranthiki Vasthunam on ZEE5 can look forward to the following:
- High-Quality Streaming: With ZEE5’s user-friendly platform, viewers can enjoy the film in HD with seamless playback.
- Subtitles: The addition of subtitles will make the film accessible to non-Telugu-speaking audiences.
- Flexibility: Whether watching on a smart TV, smartphone, or laptop, ZEE5 ensures a smooth viewing experience.
Steps to Watch ‘Sankranthiki Vasthunam’ on ZEE5
To enjoy the film on ZEE5:
- Subscription: Sign up for a ZEE5 subscription. Various plans are available, including monthly and annual packages.
- Search: Once the movie is released, search for Sankranthiki Vasthunam in the platform’s library.
- Stream: Hit play and enjoy the film at your convenience.
Conclusion: An Awaited OTT Release
Sankranthiki Vasthunam has already made its mark as a festive entertainer, and its upcoming OTT release is set to extend its reach to a broader audience. The film’s combination of humor, drama, and family-centric storytelling makes it a perfect watch for viewers seeking lighthearted entertainment.
For fans of Venkatesh and Telugu cinema, the ZEE5 release offers the opportunity to relive the movie’s best moments or experience it for the first time. With its engaging narrative and stellar performances, Sankranthiki Vasthunam is poised to delight audiences in its digital avatar.
Stay tuned for updates on the official OTT release date, and make sure to catch this festive entertainer on ZEE5 soon!
