Cast: Sumanth, Kajal Choudhary, Avasarala Srinivas, Master Viharsh, Anu Hasan, Rakesh Rachakonda, Kaumidi Nemani and others
Music: Chandu Ravi
Cinematography: Pavan Pappula
Producers: Rakesh Reddy Gaddam, Rudra Madireddy
Director: Sunny Sanjay
Streaming OTT: Direct release on ETV Win
Rating: 3/5
Suresh Kavirayani
Actor Sumanth is not often seen these days in regular films, but he has made cameos in films like Sita Ramam and Sir. He plays the lead in Anaganaga…, which has had a direct release on ETV Win OTT. Sunny Sanjay directs the film, while Miss India Bihar and Miss Universe India 2024 finalist Kajal Choudhary makes her debut as the female lead. Here’s how the story unfolds.
Story:
Vyas (Sumanth) works as a personality development teacher in an international school. His wife Bhagyalakshmi (Kajal Choudhary) is the principal at the same school, and Raja Reddy (Avasarala Srinivas) serves as the chairman. Vyas strongly believes that rote learning may help students pass exams but will not help them succeed in life. On the other hand, the chairman pressures the principal, Bhagya, to ensure a 100% pass rate for the school. To achieve this, the school gives badges to top-ranking students while tagging failed students with “failure” badges.
Vyas is firmly against this practice and argues with the school management, urging them not to pressure students just for rankings or reputation. Although his wife is the principal, she supports the management’s approach and disapproves of Vyas’s ideology, eventually removing him from his job. When a failed student dies by suicide, Vyas decides to take in all the failed students and turn them into top achievers. What methods does he use? How does Bhagya respond after realizing the value of her husband’s teaching philosophy? How does Vyas’s life unfold in the end?
Analysis:
Director Sunny Sanjay opens the film with a scene where parents take their child to a psychiatrist, claiming he’s not good at studies. From this very scene, it becomes clear what the director aims to communicate. The film critiques the current education system, especially in corporate schools, where undue pressure is placed on children for ranks and academic results. With high fees, excessive syllabus, and homework, students are facing severe mental strain.
This is not a satirical take but a direct commentary on the mental burden imposed on children. The director also emphasizes that parents should treat their children with love and gently understand their challenges rather than being harsh or dismissive.
Although the narration is slow, the emotional storytelling stands out—especially the bond between father and son over academics. Similarly, scenes of the mother, a principal, scolding her son for poor marks are well-executed.
The portrayal of school management issuing failure badges and forcing children to perform for the sake of school rankings is depicted effectively. The suicide attempt of a boy under pressure from both his father and teacher—and the chairman’s attempt to cover it up—is shown with realism.
The director successfully underlines the fact that many children today are suffering due to unrealistic expectations from both parents and teachers. Despite some twists, the narration is sluggish, and a few scenes feel stretched. However, the film succeeds in its emotional portrayal of teaching methods and the flaws of the education system.
The message is clear—both parents working and sending their child to an expensive international school might seem like a good decision, but what the child truly needs is love and emotional connection. The money spent means little to a child lacking affection.
Also, parents should never compare their child with others. Each child learns differently; some grasp concepts quickly, while others need more time. After parents, it’s the teacher’s responsibility to guide students properly. However, in the race to finish the syllabus quickly, some teachers teach at high speed without ensuring that students understand the concepts. The director touches on these important issues in a sensitive and emotional way.
Performances:
Sumanth delivers a dignified portrayal of Vyas Sir. After a long time, he offers a performance that stands out, especially in the emotional scenes with his son and wife.
Kajal Choudhary, making her debut as the female lead, never appears to be a newcomer. She performs authentically and gracefully, donning sarees throughout the film and appearing pleasant and beautiful. She is fortunate to debut with a performance-oriented role.
Viharsh, who plays young Ram, is simply superb. Avasarala, Anu Hasan, Kaumidi Nemani, BVS Ravi, and Rakesh Rachakonda also support the film well with their performances.
The music, composed by Chandu Ravi, is soothing and aligns beautifully with the story. It provides a refreshing change from the loud, violence-driven scores common today.
Technical Aspects
Technically, the film is well-made with high production values. Despite being shot in limited locations, Pavan’s cinematography ensures visually appealing scenes. The dialogues are effective and support the narrative.
Verdict:
Anaganaga… is a commendable watch that highlights the flaws in today’s education system and how children are suffering mentally due to the overwhelming burden. While the pacing lags in places, the film is thought-provoking. Sumanth and Kajal Choudhary deliver standout performances in a film that calls for urgent reflection on how we educate and treat our children.
