Indian cinema has always been fascinated by grandeur, power, and the human pursuit of wealth. In 2025, Kuberaa emerges as one of the most ambitious projects, blending mythology-inspired themes with a modern crime drama narrative. Directed by Sekhar Kammula and featuring a stellar cast including Dhanush, Nagarjuna, Rashmika Mandanna, and Jim Sarbh, Kuberaa has already become one of the most talked-about films of the year.
With its rich visuals, strong performances, and philosophical undertones, the film promises more than just entertainment—it dives into questions about greed, morality, and redemption.
Storyline Overview
The name “Kubera” traditionally refers to the Hindu God of wealth, often associated with prosperity and abundance. In this movie, however, the name takes on a symbolic meaning.
The story follows Arjun (played by Dhanush), a man born into poverty but with unshakable dreams of power and riches. His path collides with Nagarjuna’s character, a morally grey kingpin who controls an underground empire. What begins as admiration soon turns into rivalry, with greed and betrayal setting the stage for a high-stakes power struggle.
Adding emotional depth is Rashmika Mandanna’s role, portraying a woman who challenges Arjun’s moral compass. Meanwhile, Jim Sarbh enters the narrative as a cunning antagonist whose intellectual warfare raises the stakes even higher.
The film weaves between mythological allegories and gritty realism, showing how the lust for wealth can either build empires or destroy souls.
Cast & Crew of Kuberaa (2025)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Movie Title | Kuberaa (2025) |
| Genre | Mythology-Inspired Crime Drama / Action Thriller |
| Lead Actor | Dhanush (as Arjun – the dreamer turned empire-builder) |
| Supporting Actor | Nagarjuna (as the underworld kingpin/mentor figure) |
| Lead Actress | Rashmika Mandanna (as moral anchor and emotional strength of Arjun) |
| Antagonist | Jim Sarbh (as a sharp, manipulative rival) |
| Director | Sekhar Kammula |
| Producers | Suniel Narang, Puskur Ram Mohan Rao, and Amigos Creations |
| Writer/Screenplay | Sekhar Kammula |
| Music Composer | Devi Sri Prasad (DSP) |
| Cinematographer | Niketh Bommi |
| Editor | Marthand K. Venkatesh |
| Production House | Sri Venkateswara Cinemas LLP |
| Filming Locations | Hyderabad, Mumbai, and international locales (Dubai, Istanbul) |
| Release Date | May 2025 |
| OTT Release (Expected) | Netflix / Disney+ Hotstar (post-theatrical run) |
| Runtime | Approx. 2 hours 40 minutes |
| Languages | Telugu, Tamil, Hindi (dubbed), Malayalam, Kannada (Pan-India release) |
Performances
- Dhanush delivers yet another powerhouse performance. His portrayal of Arjun, a man torn between ambition and morality, is nuanced, raw, and deeply emotional. He balances intensity with vulnerability, ensuring the audience roots for him even when his choices turn dark.
- Nagarjuna brings gravitas to the screen, portraying the underworld kingpin with charm and menace. His mentor-turned-rival arc is one of the film’s strongest highlights.
- Rashmika Mandanna adds warmth and heart to the gritty drama. Her chemistry with Dhanush provides emotional balance to the otherwise dark tone.
- Jim Sarbh shines as the cerebral villain. His calculated moves and subtle performance give the story an intellectual edge.
Direction & Screenplay
Sekhar Kammula, known for his storytelling finesse, takes a bold leap with Kuberaa. Unlike his earlier socially conscious dramas, here he attempts a mythological-crime crossover. The screenplay is layered—part rise-and-fall gangster saga, part allegory of Kubera’s mythology, and part moral lesson about the dangers of unchecked ambition.
The dialogues are sharp, and the pacing, though occasionally indulgent, serves the film’s grand vision.
Music & Technical Aspects
- Devi Sri Prasad’s (DSP) music is electrifying, mixing pulsating beats for action sequences with soulful ballads for emotional depth. The background score elevates tension throughout the film.
- Cinematography by Niketh Bommi captures the duality of glitzy wealth and gritty underworld life, creating a visually rich canvas.
- Editing by Marthand K. Venkatesh ensures that despite its nearly 3-hour runtime, the narrative remains engaging.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Stellar performances from Dhanush and Nagarjuna.
- Unique blend of mythology and crime drama.
- High production values with world-class cinematography and music.
- Jim Sarbh’s villainous role adds depth and unpredictability.
- Engaging Pan-India appeal with multi-language release.
Weaknesses:
- Runtime may feel long for some viewers.
- Philosophical undertones may not connect with all audiences.
- Some secondary characters are underdeveloped compared to the leads.
Final Verdict
Kuberaa (2025) is a bold, ambitious, and visually stunning cinematic experience. It combines the grandeur of myth with the grit of underworld crime, making it a rare film that entertains while provoking thought. Dhanush delivers one of his finest performances, while Sekhar Kammula successfully crafts a story that resonates beyond language and culture.
⭐ Rating: 4.2/5
If you’re a fan of high-stakes drama, powerful performances, and meaningful storytelling, Kuberaa is a must-watch.
FAQs on Kuberaa (2025)
Q1. Who plays the lead role in Kuberaa (2025)?
Dhanush plays Arjun, the central character of the film.
Q2. Is Kuberaa based on mythology?
While inspired by the mythological Kubera (God of wealth), the story is a modern crime-drama with symbolic references.
Q3. What is the release date of Kuberaa?
The movie released theatrically in May 2025.
Q4. On which OTT platform will Kuberaa release?
It is expected to release on Netflix or Disney+ Hotstar after its cinema run.
Q5. What genre does the film belong to?
It is a mythology-inspired crime drama and action thriller.