Sriya Reddy Opens Up About Role in "They Call Him OG" Ahead of Release

A Glimpse Into a Highly Anticipated Action Drama

Actress Sriya Reddy has shared fresh insights into her role in the much-awaited film "They Call Him OG," directed by Sujeeth andd by power star Pawan Kalyan. The highly ambitious gangster-action drama, which also features Emraan Hashmi and Priyanka Mohan, has been the subject of feverish anticipation since its announcement. With production milestones now completed, the film is entering its release phase after a long period of interruptions tied to Pawan Kalyan’s political commitments.

Reddy revealed a candid behind-the-scenes moment from her casting journey, recalling a phone call with director Sujeeth. She explained that Sujeeth, known for his meticulous narrative style, initially resisted narrating the script over the phone. Eventually, however, he walked her through her character and the film’s arc within a brisk five-minute conversation that left her deeply impressed. According to Reddy, that brief narration alone convinced her of the clarity and conviction with which Sujeeth envisioned the project.

The Film’s Interrupted Journey

"They Call Him OG" began production amid enormous buzz but faced several pauses due to Pawan Kalyan’s political engagements in 2024. Filming stopped for extended stretches, creating a ripple effect across the industry as major Telugu film releases often dominate the regional box office calendar. Shooting finally resumed in October 2024, allowing the ambitious project to regain momentum.

By June 2025, Pawan Kalyan had successfully wrapped his portions of the film, giving way to a massive pre-release event in Hyderabad. Industry observers noted that the celebratory event both reassured fans and underscored the film’s scale, as such grand events are more often reserved for high-stakes productions.

Sriya Reddy on Her Character

For Sriya Reddy, "They Call Him OG" marks another pivotal entry in her career, which has often intertwined with bold and unconventional roles. Known for her striking screen presence in Tamil and Telugu cinema, her return to a high-profile ensemble has sparked heightened interest from fans. In her remarks, she emphasized the strength and depth of her character in the story, noting that it was neither ornamental nor secondary—elements that have historically challenged female actors in male-dominated action films.

Reddy’s excitement reflects a broader shift in South Indian cinema, where evolving narratives have been offering more layered roles to women. While the film’s promotional team has kept much of her role under wraps, her hints about its significance to the story have raised speculation about whether her character could serve as one of the narrative pivots.

Star Cast Power: Pawan Kalyan and Emraan Hashmi

At the center of "They Call Him OG" is Pawan Kalyan, whose stature as both a political leader and film star lends the project unique cultural weight. Kalyan’s fans had been vocal about his long gaps between film releases, making this film one of the most closely monitored projects of recent years.

The inclusion of Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi, making his Telugu cinema debut, further adds to the film’s national appeal. Hashmi steps into the antagonist’s role, setting up a high-stakes face-off that has already fired speculation about the film’s direction and tone. Priyanka Mohan rounds out the ensemble as the female lead, bringing her growing popularity from Tamil and Telugu hit films into the spotlight here.

A Grand Hyderabad Pre-Release Event

The pre-release event held in Hyderabad in mid-2025 underscored the film’s significance. Thousands of fans thronged the venue, creating a celebratory atmosphere reminiscent of political rallies that often intersect with film promotions in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The stage featured electrifying performances, speeches by the cast, and carefully choreographed teaser reveals that fueled fan discussions online.

Industry analysts noted that such events are not merely promotional but serve as bellwethers of box office potential. The resurgent momentum after months of silence around the film suggested that "They Call Him OG" is being positioned as one of the year’s largest releases.

A Historical Context of Gangster Epics

"They Call Him OG" enters a cinematic tradition marked by the enduring popularity of gangster epics in Indian cinema. From Ram Gopal Varma’s gritty portrayals in the early 2000s to Mani Ratnam’s cult-classic "Nayakan," the genre carries a strong lineage of stories that magnify power struggles, moral dilemmas, and the burden of legacy. Sujeeth’s decision to enter this crowded space puts the pressure squarely on tone and originality.

The director, known for "Saaho," has previously shown an appetite for scale and stylish action choreography. His collaboration with Pawan Kalyan signals an intent to blend commercial spectacle with a grounded protagonist narrative, a move that could determine its staying power among both fans and critics.

Regional and Economic Impact

The release of "They Call Him OG" is particularly significant for the Telugu film industry, which continues to expand its market share across India and abroad. Following the unprecedented global success of Telugu blockbusters such as "RRR," filmmakers and distributors have been under pressure to produce universally appealing stories that can transcend regional boundaries.

Economically, a large-scale Pawan Kalyan release often drives local box office revenues and creates a ripple effect for associated markets such as streaming rights, satellite deals, and merchandise. Industry insiders expect "They Call Him OG" to set new benchmarks in pre-release business, with reports suggesting record-breaking theatrical deals in Nizam and Andhra regions, alongside strong overseas market enthusiasm in the United States and Gulf Cooperation Council countries where Telugu diaspora communities ensure consistent demand.

Comparisons in the Regional Landscape

The Telugu industry is currently at a crossroads, competing directly with Tamil and Hindi cinema for pan-Indian dominance. While Tamil cinema banks heavily on performers like Vijay and Ajith, Telugu’s edge has often stemmed from its unique ability to blend larger-than-life narratives with modern technical execution.

"They Call Him OG" will likely be compared to other high-stakes Telugu releases such as "Pushpa 2" and upcoming Prabhas projects. The timing of release ensures it avoids direct clashes with these heavyweights, but in terms of style and expectations, audiences will inevitably measure it against these juggernauts.

Public Reception and Online Anticipation

Online conversations about "They Call Him OG" have surged with every new development, from leaked set photos to teaser glimpses at action blocks. Pawan Kalyan’s massive fan base, often organizing themselves into dedicated online collectives, has routinely trended the film across social platforms.

Audience anticipation is not limited to Kalyan alone. The prospect of watching Emraan Hashmi step into a villainous role has intrigued Bollywood followers, suggesting the film could draw mixed audiences beyond its regional base. For Sriya Reddy, social media reception has been equally warm, with fans celebrating her comeback in a genre where her intensity and screen command may find a receptive audience.

The Road Ahead

With filming now complete and promotional activity in full swing, "They Call Him OG" is expected to lock a release date that aligns with a major festival season. The strategic release timing is crucial, as box office numbers for star-driven Telugu films often hinge on aligning with public holidays, ensuring maximum theater footfalls during opening weekends.

The film’s producers have indicated a widespread release across multiple countries, banking on the increasing global appetite for South Indian action cinema. Early trade reports point to massive pre-release revenues, with marketing campaigns set to expand aggressively as the release date approaches.

"They Call Him OG" thus stands at the crossroads of cinema and spectacle, offering not only a thrilling narrative but also a marker of where Telugu cinema is heading in the second half of the decade. For Sriya Reddy, Sujeeth, and above all, Pawan Kalyan, the film represents more than entertainment—it is an assertion of creative ambition, cultural identity, and the enduring allure of the big-screen experience.