Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes
Genre: Family Drama
Release Date: 30 January 2026
Cast: Tharun Bhascker, Eesha Rebba, Brahmaji, Brahmanandam, and others
Director: A.R. Sajeev
Producers: Srujan Yarabolu, Aditya Pittie, Vivek Krishnani, Anu Chandrasekhar, Sadhik Shaik, Naveen Sanivarapu
Banner: SS Originals, Movieverse Studios
Music: Jay Krish
The Telugu remake of the acclaimed Malayalam film Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey, titled Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi, was released today. The original Malayalam film was celebrated for its compelling content and gained popularity on OTT platforms. This remake, directed by debutant A.R. Sajeev, features Tharun Bhascker and Eesha Rebba in lead roles.
Plot Overview:
Shanti (Eesha Rebba), an educated young woman, is forced into marriage with a local fish seller, Omkar Naidu (Tharun Bhascker). Post-marriage, she faces physical abuse, prompting her to fight back. The story unfolds as Shanti seeks to teach her husband a lesson, leading to escalating tensions when Omkar devises a sinister plan to dominate his wife. The narrative explores how Shanti navigates these challenges.
Performance Highlights:
The film’s strength lies in its performances. Tharun Bhascker delivers his career-best role as Omkar Naidu, convincingly portraying a negative character with a mix of humor and seriousness. His comedic timing and fear of Eesha add entertainment value. Eesha Rebba, returning to a strong role after a hiatus, fits well as Shanti, with her chemistry with Tharun adding depth. The supporting cast, including Brahmaji, contributes effectively to the film’s light-hearted moments.
Technical Aspects:
Music composer Jay Krish provides a soothing score that complements the film’s tone. The production design captures the small-town vibe against the backdrop of the Godavari, with impressive visuals. However, the editing falters in the second half, especially during the pre-climax, where pacing becomes hurried.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
While the film boasts strong performances, good production values, and light humor, it suffers from an abrupt ending, lack of emotional depth, and underdeveloped character arcs. The director’s attempt to blend humor with serious themes results in a film that feels uneven, particularly in its climax.
Analysis:
Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi is an adaptation of the Malayalam classic Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey. Despite its promising setup and engaging first half, the film struggles to evoke emotional connection, especially regarding the protagonist’s trauma. The light-hearted tone, while effective early on, hampers the development of a more impactful, serious narrative in the latter half. The climax, featuring a rushed court episode with Brahmanandam, further diminishes the film’s impact.
Final Verdict:
A half-baked family drama that entertains but falls short in emotional resonance.
