The Gaddar Telangana Film Awards 2025 has emerged as a powerful testament to the rich legacy and ever-evolving brilliance of Telugu cinema. This year’s honours celebrate a dynamic mix of seasoned legends and contemporary trailblazers, including actor Mahesh Babu, director Sukumar, actor Vijay Deverakonda, and the epic film Rudhramadevi, each of whom has made a lasting impact on Indian cinema.
Mahesh Babu grateful as his films receive recognition
Superstar Mahesh Babu expressed deep gratitude as three of his acclaimed films — Srimanthudu, Maharshi and Major— were honored at the awards. In a heartfelt message, he thanked the Telangana Government and extended his love to his directors and collaborators: “Humbled and grateful to see Srimanthudu, Maharshi and Major receive their place at Gaddar Telangana Film Awards… Big love to my directors and every hand behind it…” These films, known for their compelling narratives and social consciousness, further cement Mahesh Babu’s standing as a powerhouse of both commercial and meaningful cinema.
Rudhramadevi Wins Best Feature Film
Rudhramadevi, directed by Gunasekhar and produced by Gunaa Teamworks, was recognized with the Best Feature Filmaward for 2015, honoring its cultural and cinematic impact. The film, a pioneering historical 3D epic, starred Anushka Shetty alongside Allu Arjun, Rana Daggubati and others, with music by Ilaiyaraaja.
Gunaa Teamworks expressed their joy:
“We’re deeply honoured to receive the Best Feature Film award… Thank you for recognising our passion, dedication and vision.”
Sukumar Awarded the B.N. Reddy Film Award
Visionary filmmaker Sukumar was presented with the B.N. Reddy Film Award for his outstanding contributions to Telugu cinema. From Arya to the sensational Pushpa: The Rise, Sukumar has continually pushed boundaries, blending emotional intensity with cinematic innovation.
“Receiving an award in the name of a legend like B.N. Reddy… is deeply meaningful to me,” Sukumar said, acknowledging the Telangana State Government and his collaborators. With Pushpa: The Rule highly anticipated, the award reaffirms Sukumar’s towering influence across regional and pan-Indian storytelling.
Vijay Deverakonda Receives Kantha Rao Memorial Award
One of the standout moments at this year’s event was actor Vijay Deverakonda being honored with the Kantha Rao Memorial Award, a tribute to his rising impact in Indian cinema. The award, named after legendary actor Nata Prapoorna Kantha Rao, acknowledges Deverakonda’s versatility and journey.
In a deeply personal message shared on social media, he wrote: “This recognition… is deeply humbling. My heartfelt thanks to the Government of Telangana, the jury, and everyone who believed in me.”
He also celebrated the recognition of Pelli Choopulu as the 2nd Best Film of 2016, calling it “a project that will always hold a special place in my heart.” “To my fans, this is yours. Your love continues to drive me,” he added.
