Sukumar Impressed With Rao Bahadur

The anticipation for Satya Dev and Venkatesh Maha’s upcoming psychological drama Rao Bahadur has soared to new heights after director Sukumar called it “surreal cinema” that Indian audiences have never experienced before. Presented by Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar under GMB Entertainment, the film is set for a worldwide theatrical release on July 3, 2026.

Sukumar, who watched a special preview, said the film delivers a magical and immersive experience that will surprise audiences, adding that the world building, costumes, and every technical department reflect extraordinary craftsmanship. He was especially impressed with Satya Dev’s performance, calling the titular role a rare opportunity that “every actor would be jealous of” and a wonderful gift to the artist.

Sukumar also lauded director Venkatesh Maha for writing the story and presenting it in a surreal style without losing its soul, noting that after eight years, the C/o Kancharapalem filmmaker has created something truly remarkable. Rao Bahadur is written, directed, and edited by Venkatesh Maha, who spent five years developing the script to create a “Telugu story made for the world” that blends suspense, dark comedy, and magical realism against the backdrop of a fading aristocracy.

Sukumar specifically acknowledged producer Anurag Reddy’s contribution, saying audiences will understand his passion in every frame once they watch the film. Satya Dev plays a royal figure stuck in the past who believes he is possessed by a demon, with the central tagline “Doubt is a Deadly Demon” driving the psychological tension. Produced by Anurag Reddy, Sharath Chandra, and Chinta Gopalakrishna Reddy under A+S Movies and Srichakraas Entertainments, Rao Bahadur features Deepa Thomas as the female lead alongside Vikas Muppala, Bala Parasar, Anand Bharathi, Pranay Vaka, and Master Kiran in key roles.