Telugu Detective Thriller Explores Mystery, Mythology, Emotion
India-West Staff Reporter
HYDERABAD – ZEE5 Global’s Telugu original, Vikkatakavi: The Chronicles of Amaragiri, premiered on November 28, making history as Telangana’s first-ever detective series. Set in the 1970s, the show transports viewers to the mysterious Amaragiri province, blending mythology, memory, and suspense into a captivating narrative. Directed by Pradeep Maddali and produced by Ram Talluri, the series stars Naresh Agastya as detective Ramakrishna and Megha Akash as royal princess Lakshmi.
For Naresh Agastya, Vikkatakavi offered an opportunity to explore an underrepresented genre in Indian entertainment. “Detective dramas aren’t explored much in India, especially in series format. While we have iconic films like Byomkesh Bakshi, this takes Telugu cinema in a new direction. It’s deeply rooted in Telangana’s culture and adds the intrigue of the Nallamalla Forest,” he said. Megha Akash echoed his sentiment, noting that her character, Lakshmi, is far more than just a supporting figure. “Lakshmi’s backstory is both heartbreaking and empowering. Despite her challenges, she carries herself with grace, making her a deeply layered character. The series dives deep into human emotions and struggles, which makes it so much more than just a detective thriller.”
Both actors were captivated by the period setting. Megha described stepping onto the set as stepping into a time machine. “The 1970s offered such a distinct vibe. It was a magical experience to portray a character from another era.” For Naresh, the challenge of adopting Telangana slang added to the immersion. “It was tough to crack, but it made the experience rewarding. Ramakrishna’s emotional depth also pushed me to explore new dimensions in acting,” he shared.
The actors credited ZEE5 Global for bringing regional stories like Vikkatakavi to audiences worldwide. Naresh, who previously found success with Paruvu on the platform, called OTT services a “game-changer” for Indian entertainment. “They bring our stories to global audiences and create new opportunities for actors. I hope Vikkatakavi receives the same love as Paruvu.” Megha highlighted the importance of representation, saying, “Regional stories carry so much depth and uniqueness. Platforms like ZEE5 Global allow us to share our culture and history with the world, and it’s thrilling to see these stories celebrated on a global scale.”
Set in the soon-to-be-submerged Amaragiri province, Vikkatakavi weaves suspense, culture, and human emotion into its narrative. With its period backdrop, intricate storytelling, and stellar performances, the series has positioned itself as a milestone in Telugu cinema and a testament to the growing impact of regional storytelling on the global stage.
