Paradha Movie Review: Anupama Parameswaran Leads a Tale of Traditions and Freedom

Release Date: August 22, 2025
Cast: Anupama Parameswaran, Darshana Rajendran, Sangitha Krish, Rajendra Prasad, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Rag Mayur & others
Director: Praveen Kandregula
Producers: Vijay Donkada, Sreenivasulu PV, Sridhar Makkuva
Music: Gopi Sundar
Cinematography: Mridul Sujit Sen
Editing: Dharmendra Kakarala

Story

In the village of Padathi, age-old customs dominate every woman’s life. Subba Lakshmi (Anupama Parameswaran), called Subbu, lives under a strict rule — women must keep their faces covered, and only family members can see them. Anyone who disobeys risks the curse of Jwalamma, the village goddess, feared for generations after a tragic incident.

Life goes on quietly until one unexpected event shakes the village, forcing Subbu to question her faith and confront the curse head-on. Her journey intertwines with Rathnamma (Sangitha Krish) and Amishta (Darshana Rajendran), as together they face whether tradition will continue to suppress them or freedom will finally prevail.

Performances

Anupama Parameswaran delivers a grounded performance as Subbu. After Tillu Square, she embraces a traditional role and convincingly portrays the conflict between fear, faith, and the longing for liberation.

Darshana Rajendran, making her Telugu debut, leaves an impression with her bold, witty, and vibrant performance. Her chemistry with Anupama adds depth, and her comic timing provides light moments.

Sangitha Krish proves that even smaller roles can shine. Her natural acting and sharp presence make her stand out.

Together, the trio’s interactions bring a mix of fun and drama. Supporting actors like Rajendra Prasad and Gautham Vasudev Menon, however, are underutilized.

Plus Points

• Strong central performances by Anupama and Darshana.

• Intriguing concept that highlights women’s struggles with regressive traditions.

• Some visually appealing frames and a fitting music score by Gopi Sundar.

• Moments of humor and energy between the leading trio.

Minus Points

• The film starts promisingly but slows down in the second half.

• Subbu’s emotional journey is not explored deeply enough to connect with the audience.

• Some characters, like Rajendra Prasad and Gautham Vasudev Menon, are wasted.

• The screenplay feels repetitive, especially towards the climax.

Technical Aspects

Director Praveen Kandregula shows ambition by tackling a women-centric subject, but the execution wavers. Tighter writing and pacing could have elevated the impact.

• Music: Gopi Sundar’s background score supports the mood well, though songs are inconsistent.

• Cinematography: Mridul Sujit Sen captures the village atmosphere neatly.

• Editing: Could have been sharper in the latter half.

• Production Values: Adequate but not standout.

Verdict

Paradha is a social drama that mixes traditions, superstition, and women’s fight for identity. The idea is engaging, and Anupama Parameswaran delivers one of her notable performances, supported well by Darshana Rajendran. However, the weak second half, repetitive narration, and lack of emotional high points reduce its overall impact.

 A watchable film if you like women-oriented stories, but manage your expectations.

Rating: ⭐⭐½ (2.5/5)