Pokiri(2006)
Pokiri is a 2006 Indian Telugu-language action thriller film written and directed by Puri Jagannadh. The film stars Mahesh Babu, Ileana D'Cruz, and Prakash Raj. The story follows Pandu, a local thug who joins a powerful crime boss's gang, but is secretly an undercover police officer on a mission to dismantle the criminal empire. The film was shot primarily in Hyderabad and Chennai, with a song filmed in Thailand. It received positive reviews for its direction, action sequences, and Mahesh Babu's performance. Pokiri won five Nandi Awards and two Filmfare Awards South. It was a major commercial success, becoming the highest-grossing Telugu film at the time. The film was released on 28 April 2006.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Hotstar, Netflix, Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 28 April 2006
- Director
- Puri Jagannadh
- Language
- Telugu
- Runtime
- 2h 48m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
Pandu is a ruthless thug who works for the highest bidder in Hyderabad. He catches the eye of a dangerous crime boss and joins his gang. But Pandu has a secret. He is actually an undercover police officer. He must take down the boss and the corrupt cop who threatens the woman he loves.
“The rogue who will change everything.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Pokiri
Cast reunions in this film: Prakash Raj & Brahmanandam (59 films together), Nassar & Prakash Raj (41 films together), Nassar & Brahmanandam (37 films together), Sayaji Shinde & Brahmanandam (30 films together), Mani Sharma & Brahmanandam (27 films together), and Prakash Raj & Mani Sharma (24 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Pokiri' is a Telugu slang word for a fearless, rule-breaking person, which became a popular term after the movie.
- Mahesh Babu's iconic whistle tune in the film was composed by Mani Sharma and became a signature style for the actor.
- The movie was remade in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi as 'Wanted' with Salman Khan, which also became a blockbuster.
- Director Puri Jagannadh wrote the script in just three days, inspired by the idea of an anti-hero with a hidden moral code.
- The film's climax was shot in Hyderabad's old city area, with tight security to manage crowds of Mahesh Babu fans.
- Pokiri was the first Telugu film to gross over 50 crore rupees, setting a new benchmark for box office success in Tollywood.
- Actress Ileana D'Cruz made her Telugu debut with this film, and her role was initially offered to another actress who declined.