Tollywood Classic Manam to Release Theatrically in Japan on August 8
Cult Telugu drama Manam is all set for a grand theatrical release in Japan on August 8, 2025 — over a decade after its original release in 2014.
Starring three generations of the Akkineni family — the legendary Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), Nagarjuna, and Naga Chaitanya — Manam is remembered not only for its unique storytelling but also as the last film of ANR, making it a landmark project in Tollywood history.
Why Japan, and Why Now?
The answer lies in the growing love for Indian cinema in Japan, especially films that highlight family emotions and cultural depth. After the success of films like RRR, Japanese audiences are increasingly embracing Indian movies that focus on relationships and sentiment, not just action.
More specifically, Nagarjuna has built a loyal fanbase in Japan, particularly after his appearance in Brahmastra. Fans there fondly call him “Nag Sama” — “Sama” being a respectful honorific in Japanese, reserved for people of divine or revered status.
Special Fan Connect
To mark the release, Nagarjuna will join his Japanese fans via a live video call on release day, a gesture that has further excited his overseas admirers.
A Rare International Revival
While international releases of Indian films are not new, re-releasing an older regional classic in a foreign theatrical market is a rare and bold move. However, the signs are promising — Manam recently had a limited re-release in Hyderabad and played to full houses, proving its emotional resonance remains strong.
What’s Next?
If Manam performs well in Japan, more films from the Akkineni vault — such as Hello Brother, Ninne Pelladatha, and Nuvvu Vastavani — could follow suit, further deepening the cultural bridge between Tollywood and Japan.
