Thu Dec 25 05:30:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

‘Shambhala’ Attempts to Revive Aadi Saikumar’s Career with Supernatural Thrills

Hyderabad, December 25, 2025 – Actor Aadi Saikumar returns to the big screen in “Shambhala,” a supernatural horror thriller directed by Ugandhar Muni. After a string of unsuccessful films, Saikumar is hoping this collaboration will be a career turning point. The film, produced by Mahidhar Reddy and Rajasekhar Annabhimoju under Shining Pictures, features music by Sricharan Pakala and an ensemble cast.

“Shambhala” follows Vikram (Aadi Saikumar), a geoscientist who investigates a meteor crash in a remote village. Strange occurrences and violent suicides plague the village, leading Vikram to unravel the mystery behind the meteor’s impact and its connection to the village’s dark past.

Saikumar delivers a confident performance, while Archana Iyerr shines in the second half. Madhunandan impresses with his portrayal of varied emotions. However, critics note inconsistencies in the screenplay, particularly in the first half, where repetitive sequences and illogical plot points hinder the film’s momentum.

Technically, “Shambhala” presents a mixed bag. Praveen K. Bangarri’s cinematography effectively captures the night scenes, but Shravan Katikaneni’s editing could be tighter. Sricharan Pakala’s background score is criticized for being too loud, although a song used to introduce key characters is a highlight. Budget limitations are evident in the animated flashbacks, which detract from the overall visual experience.

Despite its flaws, “Shambhala” boasts a compelling storyline that blends science, religion, and mythology. The second half gains momentum with intriguing twists and a racy screenplay. The film’s core message about overcoming inner demons resonates, making it a decent watch for horror fans.

Verdict: “Shambhala” showcases a good concept but suffers from mid execution. Aadi Saikumar, while delivers one of his better performances is restricted by the script. The film is expected to perform reasonably well at the box office during the holiday season.

Rating: 2.5/5

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