Ram Pothineni Turns Director With #RAPO23 Plays A Character Called Veera In The Film!

(MENAFN- IANS) Hyderabad, May 15 (IANS) Telugu star Ram Pothineni, a multi-faceted performer who has consistently showcased his versatility on screen, on Friday announced he would be turning director with his upcoming film, tentatively being referred to as #Rapo23.

Taking to his X timeline to make the announcement, he wrote, "An exciting journey begins with all your love & blessings. Introducing "Veera" in #RAPO23 -the story of a Lone Wolf. Genre: Psychological Action Thriller. Written & Directed by #RAPO. Produced by Krishna Pothineni. A @RAPO_Cinematics Production 2026 Release."

It may be recalled that the actor, after turning a lyricist with his previous film 'Andhra King Taluka', had also surprised audiences by lending his vocals for the first time.

Now, the actor has donned the director's hat, marking his debut as a filmmaker.

The project, formally announced on the occasion of his birthday, is set to be a stylish psychological action thriller - a genre rarely explored in Telugu cinema.

#RAPO23 will be produced by Krishna Pothineni under the newly formed Rapo Cinematics banner. Interestingly with this move, Ram joins the elite league of stars-turned-directors such as Sr. NTR, Krishna, and Pawan Kalyan.

The makers also unveiled a striking birthday special poster that introduced Ram Pothineni's character as Veera on the occasion.

The poster radiates a dark, intense, and gritty tone featuring Ram from behind, clad in a leather jacket. His sharp, V-cut hairstyle amplifies the raw attitude of the character.

Dominating the backdrop is a bold red“V”, symbolizing both Veera and a sense of rebellion, danger, and dominance.

The faint outlines of towering skyscrapers on either side evoke a cold, crime-infested cityscape.

Adding to the mystery, the tagline“The Story of a Lone Wolf” hints at a protagonist driven by solitude, instinct, and a complex psychological landscape.

Sources close to the unit say #RAPO23 was a powerful and groundbreaking narrative conceived by Ram Pothineni himself for his directorial debut.

He is set to portray Veera in a completely new, never-before-seen avatar, and that the transformation was already evident in the announcement poster's styling and mood.

The film's regular shoot is set to begin in June, with the makers eyeing a December release this year. Further details about the cast and technical crew will be revealed in the coming days, the sources added.

-- IANS

mkr/

MENAFN15052026000231011071ID1111119970