“It all felt so right”: Nagarjuna reflects on finding meaning in 'Kuberaa'

The Mumbai launch of Kuberaa’s song “Pippi Pippi Dum Dum Dum” turned into more than just a music event—it offered a rare glimpse into what drew superstar Nagarjuna Akkineni to the film. The evening kicked off with not one but two teaser screenings, giving attendees an early taste of what the film promises. But the real moment came when Nagarjuna addressed the audience, speaking candidly about why Kuberaa marks a turning point in his career.

Sharing the stage with the film’s team, the actor opened up about reaching a phase in his journey where familiar roles no longer excited him. He was searching for something with deeper resonance. That’s when director Sekhar Kammula approached him. Without hesitation, Nagarjuna agreed. It was, he said, the collaboration he had waited over a decade for.

The actor spoke with quiet conviction about Kammula’s cinematic language, noting how the filmmaker’s storytelling reflects genuine emotion without dramatics. What particularly struck him, Nagarjuna shared, was the clarity with which the director brought the characters to life, making it easy for actors to connect with the material.

He also reflected on how his own instincts aligned with the project from the start. While he didn’t go into specifics about the plot or his role, his confidence in the film’s vision was clear. He described the experience as a professional reset—something that gave him fresh purpose.

Kuberaa is directed by National Award-winner Sekhar Kammula and stars Nagarjuna, Dhanush, and Rashmika Mandanna. The film is being released in multiple Indian languages and features music by Devi Sri Prasad.

The event also served as a promotional kickoff for the film’s national rollout. Backed by Sri Venkateswara Cinemas LLP and Amigos Creations Pvt Ltd, the production is also supported by Mugafi, which will distribute the film across northern territories. Co-producers Vipul Agarwal and Manish Vasisth round out the team behind this ambitious pan-India venture.

Kuberaa is slated to release worldwide on June 20, 2025.