Kshanam (2016) is a Telugu-language mystery thriller directed by Ravikanth Perepu. The film stars Adivi Sesh, who also co-wrote the screenplay, alongside Adah Sharma. The supporting cast includes Anasuya Bharadwaj, Vennela Kishore, Satyadev, Satyam Rajesh, and Ravi Varma. With music composed by Sricharan Pakala and cinematography by Shaneil Deo, Kshanam follows the gripping tale of Rishi, a man who travels to India in search of his ex-girlfriend’s missing daughter, leading him through a web of mystery, crime, and deception.
The film was released on 26th February 2016 and garnered positive reviews from both critics and audiences. Its compelling narrative and thrilling sequences made it a significant success. The film was later remade in several languages, including Tamil as Sathya (2017), Hindi as Baaghi 2 (2018), Kannada as Aadyaa (2020), and Sinhala as Kidnap.
Plot Summary
Rishi, an investment banker from San Francisco, receives a sudden call from his former girlfriend, Sweta, after a long period of silence. The two had once planned to marry, but Sweta’s father had arranged her marriage to Karthik, a wealthy entrepreneur. After years apart, Rishi still harbors feelings for Sweta and visits India under the pretext of attending a relative’s wedding.
Upon arriving, Rishi learns that Sweta’s five-year-old daughter, Riya, is missing. No one, including Sweta’s husband Karthik, believes Riya even exists. As Rishi delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers unsettling truths about Sweta’s past, including an attack on her by masked men, and the presence of Karthik’s drug-addicted brother, Bobby.
Despite several failed attempts to find Riya, Rishi continues his search, but his efforts attract the attention of local gangsters. As the investigation unfolds, Rishi discovers that Sweta’s claims of having a daughter may be more than just a figment of her imagination. His quest becomes even more complicated as he uncovers a web of lies and deceit involving not just Sweta and Karthik, but also a high-ranking police officer, ACP Jaya.
In a shocking twist, Rishi learns the truth behind Riya’s disappearance, leading to a final confrontation that exposes a complex conspiracy involving multiple characters with hidden motives.
Key Cast
- Adivi Sesh as Rishi
- Adah Sharma as Sweta
- Anasuya Bharadwaj as ACP Jaya Bharadwaj
- Satyadev as Karthik
- Vennela Kishore as Babu Khan
- Satyam Rajesh as Ravi Chowdary
- Ravi Varma as Bobby
- Baby Dolly as Riya
- Amit Sachdev as Commissioner Lucknow
- Marcellein Koffi Houessou and others in supporting roles.
Production Details
The film’s production was supported by Prasad V Potluri under the banner of PVP Cinema, with Ravikanth Perepu making his directorial debut. The screenplay was a collaboration between Sesh and Perepu, with the script undergoing several revisions over a span of ten months to ensure a fresh, engaging thriller. The filmmakers opted for a modest budget, aiming for a feasible production that would appeal to thriller enthusiasts.
Shaneil Deo served as the cinematographer, capturing the film’s intense moments and suspenseful sequences, while Sricharan Pakala provided a haunting and atmospheric score that heightened the tension throughout the film. The editing process was handled by Arjun Shastri and Sesh himself.
Themes & Inspirations
The core theme of Kshanam revolves around the mystery of a missing child, and it explores the psychological toll of doubt, confusion, and grief. Adivi Sesh drew inspiration from a real-life experience in which he felt uneasy about the safety of children in his community. The concept of a missing child is central to the plot, and the film’s structure is influenced by the 2005 thriller Flightplan.
Release and Reception
Upon its release, Kshanam quickly gained attention for its compelling story and suspenseful atmosphere. Critics were particularly impressed with the film’s pacing and the performances, especially that of Sesh. Pranita Jonnalagedda of The Times of India awarded it 3.5/5, praising the movie for offering a meaningful and exciting experience. Similarly, Suresh Kavirayani of Deccan Chronicle commended the film’s thrilling visuals and background score.
The film performed well at the box office, grossing approximately ₹ 4.8 crores in the first ten days in India. It also made a notable impact internationally, collecting $65,679 in the U.S. in its opening weekend.
Home Media and Critical Success
The satellite and digital rights of Kshanam were secured by Gemini TV and Sun NXT, ensuring that the film reached a wider audience post-theatrical release. Its success was not only in the domestic market but also in international territories, where its engaging narrative and suspenseful twists resonated with global viewers.
Remakes
The story of Kshanam was adapted into several other languages due to its success:
- Tamil: Sathya (2017) directed by Pradeep Krishnamoorty
- Hindi: Baaghi 2 (2018) starring Tiger Shroff and Disha Patani
- Kannada: Aadyaa (2020) directed by K. M. Chaitanya
- Sinhala: Kidnap (2017) directed by Suranga de Alwis.
Conclusion
Kshanam remains a notable film in Telugu cinema for its engaging mystery thriller format, brilliant performances, and unique narrative. Its success in multiple languages further attests to its universal appeal, making it one of the most talked-about thrillers in Indian cinema of its time.