Pottel is a powerful Telugu drama that portrays the journey of Gangadhar (played by Yuva Chandra Krishna), a humble shepherd with a bold dream: to provide his daughter with a formal education. Set in the remote village of Gurramgattu, the film explores Gangadhar's struggle against the village’s oppressive caste system, where the idea of educating a woman is taboo.
The film captures Gangadhar’s resistance to this rigid tradition as he risks everything to give his daughter the future he never had. His battle against the village elders, led by the ruthless Patel (played by Ajay), makes for a gripping narrative filled with intense moments of conflict. Ajay’s performance as Patel, particularly in the scenes where he becomes possessed by the village goddess, creates an eerie atmosphere that adds tension to the story.
The performances in Pottel are exceptional, particularly that of Yuva Chandra Krishna, who brings authenticity and depth to the role of Gangadhar. His portrayal of a father determined to break free from societal restrictions is both moving and inspiring. Ananya Nagalla, who plays Gangadhar’s wife, Bujjamma, delivers a quiet but powerful performance that anchors the emotional core of the film.
Monish Bhupathi Raju’s cinematography captures the rustic beauty of the village, enhancing the film’s grounded atmosphere. The scenic shots of Kerala add a raw, realistic charm to the narrative. Shekar Chandra’s music complements the film’s tone, adding emotional depth to the scenes while maintaining the authenticity of the setting.
Main Cast:
- Yuva Chandra Krishna as Pedda Gangadhar
- Ananya Nagalla as Bujjamma, Gangadhar’s wife
- Ajay as Patel, the village leader
- Noel Sean in a key supporting role
- Srikanth Iyengar in a supporting role
- Chatrapathi Sekhar in a supporting role
- Thanasvi Chowdary in a supporting role
Technical Team:
- Director: Sahit Mothkhuri
- Cinematography: Monish Bhupathi Raju
- Music Director: Shekar Chandra
Despite its compelling narrative, *Pottel* struggles with pacing. At 160 minutes, the film can feel unnecessarily long, and some scenes, especially in the second half, drag. The emotional highs occasionally veer into melodrama, which diminishes the impact of the story’s message. The lack of resolution for some conflicts and the film’s slow pace may cause it to lose momentum as it progresses.
Nevertheless, Pottel is an important film that highlights the harsh realities of caste discrimination and the fight for change. The film’s heartfelt performances and timely message make it a significant addition to Telugu cinema, though it could have benefited from a tighter edit and more focused storytelling.