Tollywood Starting New Villain Trends? What’s Happening?

Telugu cinema is known to be the most progressive and commercial successful film production unit in Indian Cinema, and they have now started a new trend when it comes to villain character presentation.

Telugu cinema is witnessing a new trend where villains are being portrayed with physical challenges, giving a fresh dimension to storytelling.

Traditionally, villains were shown as powerful and intimidating figures, but recent films are redefining that image by adding emotional depth and complexity to antagonists.

But now Telugu film makers have started to experiment with the physical attributes of villains. In Baahubali, S. S. Rajamouli introduced Bijjaladeva, played by Nazar, a physically disabled yet power-hungry and cunning villain.

Similarly, in Kalki 2898 AD, Kamal Haasan is said to play a partially bodiless antagonist named Supreme Yaskin, which has already sparked curiosity.

Adding to this unique lineup, Mahesh Babu’s upcoming film SSMB29 reportedly features Prithviraj Sukumaran as a villain who cannot use his hands or legs but commands fear and intelligence through his presence.

This creative shift shows how filmmakers are moving beyond the usual physical strength trope, focusing more on psychological power and dramatic impact. These characters are not just disabled; they are designed to be brilliant, manipulative, and unforgettable.

This growing interest in differently-abled villains brings diversity to Telugu cinema and proves that even physical limitations can’t restrict the strength or influence of a strong antagonist.