Producer Dil Raju has launched a new banner, DilRaju Dreams, with the aim of encouraging young talent and backing strong-content cinema. The first project under this banner is the mythological thriller Markandeya, starring young actor Vikranth in the lead role and directed by Sistla VMK. The title glimpse of the film was unveiled at a grand event in Hyderabad, creating strong buzz among film circles and on social media.
Speaking at the event, Dil Raju said that after completing 60 films in 23 years under Sri Venkateswara Creations, DilRaju Dreams is a new creative division focused on nurturing newcomers with solid scripts. He said he was impressed by the content and vision of Markandeya and decided to make it the first film under the new banner. According to him, while big-star films carry higher risks, content-driven films with young teams have given his banner a strong success rate over the years. He added that the positive response to the title glimpse has given a big boost to the team and confirmed plans to release Markandeya during Mahashivaratri next year.
Dil Raju revealed that DilRaju Dreams will produce four more projects, with two planned for theatrical release and two for OTT platforms. He said the banner received over 330 script submissions, out of which around 100 were shortlisted for reading, and five to six films are expected to go on floors this year. He also stated that the banner will announce projects only after being fully satisfied with the script and creative alignment with the director. He mentioned that apart from Markandeya, films like Yellamma, Rowdy Janardhana and Dethadi are currently in progress under different banners.
Director Sistla VMK thanked Dil Raju for trusting and supporting newcomers and said the team has worked with great responsibility on this project. He clarified that AI was used only as a support tool in the making of the film and that no shots generated by AI are part of the final movie. He described Markandeya as a modern mythological thriller inspired by epic concepts, presenting a contemporary take on the legendary character. He said the team is committed to living up to the trust placed in them and delivering a memorable cinematic experience.
Hero Vikranth said Markandeya is inspired by ancient mythological ideas such as immortals and multiple universes, concepts that have existed in Indian epics for thousands of years. He described the film as a mystical thriller with a modern narrative, where the protagonist faces intense challenges and finds solutions with faith in Lord Shiva. He added that the project involves extensive CG work but gives more importance to human emotions than technology. Vikranth said Dil Raju’s guidance on script structure, budgeting and reaching the audience has been invaluable for the young team and promised that the first film under DilRaju Dreams will be a special one.
Cinematographer Jagadeesh Varma Bhoopathi Raju said Markandeya marks his debut as a DOP and called the project a dream start to his career. Music director Hari SR said the film’s soundtrack has the potential to gain wider recognition and thanked his mentor Thaman for guiding him in his journey. He added that the script and emotional depth of the film motivated him to give his best to the project.
With its blend of mythology, modern storytelling, emotional depth and strong technical backing, Markandeya is positioned as a promising content-driven film. The launch of DilRaju Dreams and the strong response to the title glimpse have raised expectations for the film, making it one of the most talked-about upcoming Telugu projects featuring new talent.