23-05-2025
No Trailer, No ShowTime: Tovino Thomas-starrer Narivetta's Telugu Version Shelved?
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While the film was released as scheduled in Malayalam and Hindi, the Telugu version, titled Narivetta: Thodelu Veta, was missing from theatres in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Tovino Thomas's latest film, Narivetta, hit the theatres on Friday, May 23. Anuraj Manohar's action-thriller has opened to positive reviews from both fans and critics, thanks to its gripping storyline, powerful performance and sharp direction. The film was scheduled to be released in three languages – Malayalam, Telugu and Hindi. But in an unexpected twist, it did not get a Telugu release.
While the film was released as scheduled in Malayalam and Hindi, the Telugu version, titled Narivetta: Thodelu Veta, was seen missing from theatres in Andhra Pradesh or Telangana, reported 123Telugu. Despite official announcements promising a simultaneous multilingual launch, not a single theatre has opened bookings or released trailers for Telugu audiences.
In Hindi, the film was distributed by Mumbai-based Wide Angle Media Pvt. Ltd., AGS Entertainment took over the responsibility of the Tamil version, Narivettai.
Bangalore Kumar Films had the distribution rights in Karnataka, while Mythri Movie Makers handled the Telugu version. But the distributor has remained tight-lipped on the matter till now. This unexpected delay has left many fans disappointed in the Telugu states.
A few theatres in Hyderabad are screening the Malayalam version, and Telugu fans are still waiting for an official announcement on whether or not the film will be released in their language and, if so, when.
Coming back to Narivetta, the Malayalam film is penned by Abin Joseph and directed by Anuraj Manohar. The action drama, headlined by Tovino Thomas, also boasts a talented ensemble including Suraj Venjaramoodu, Priyamvada Krishnan, Rini Udayakumar, Cheran, Arya Salim, Jithin Eden and more in vital roles. The film is backed by Tippu Shah and Shiyas Hassan under the Indian Cinema Company, while Jakes Bejoy has composed the musical score of the film.
Narivetta delves deep into the themes of state violence and tribal resistance. Key scenes of Tovino Thomas's film were shot across Kottayam, Wayanad and Alappuzha for a naturalistic effect.
The Malayalam flick has drawn heavy inspiration from the long-forgotten 2003 Muthanga incident. It was a poignant chapter in Kerala's history that saw a protest by the Adivasi community over land rights.
On February 19, 2003, the officials attempted to evict them from Muthanga Sanctuary, but it resulted in the death of an Adivasi protester and police officer.
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