In a significant milestone for regional Indian cinema, the Telugu-language fantasy horror-comedy Raakaasa has claimed the top position on Netflix India’s movie charts, outperforming all competitors despite the absence of a Hindi dubbed version or audio track.
The film, which premiered on the streaming platform on 1 May 2026, is currently available exclusively in its original Telugu audio along with Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam dubs. Its rapid ascent to the No. 1 spot underscores the growing audience appetite for authentic South Indian content across linguistic borders, without reliance on pan-Indian Hindi adaptations.
Directed by Manasa Sharma and produced by Niharika Konidela under Pink Elephant Pictures, Raakaasa tells the story of Veerababu (played by Sangeeth Sobhan), a carefree NRI who returns to his ancestral village in India after a decade abroad for a family wedding. What begins as a light-hearted reunion quickly spirals into chaos when he inadvertently awakens an ancient evil with a voracious appetite for human sacrifice. Blending horror, comedy, and fantasy elements, the film features a talented ensemble cast including Nayan Sarika, Getup Srinu, Vennela Kishore, and Ashish Vidyarthi.
Originally released in theatres on 3 April 2026, Raakaasa received positive responses for its engaging narrative, sharp humour, and effective blend of scares and family-friendly entertainment. Its transition to Netflix has now extended its reach to a nationwide digital audience, particularly in southern states where the multi-language audio options have proven highly effective.
Industry observers note that the film’s success without Hindi dubbing highlights a notable shift in viewer preferences. “Raakaasa demonstrates that well-crafted regional stories, presented in their cultural and linguistic authenticity, can command national attention,” said a senior entertainment analyst. “This achievement is particularly impressive given the competitive landscape on OTT platforms.”
The availability in four South Indian languages—Telugu (original), Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam—has enabled Raakaasa to connect directly with diverse regional audiences, fostering broader cultural resonance. Netflix has confirmed that English subtitles are provided for wider accessibility.
As Raakaasa continues its strong performance on the global streaming service, it joins a growing list of Telugu productions making substantial inroads into the Indian OTT market. Audiences can stream the film now on Netflix in the supported languages.
For those seeking a fresh mix of laughter, thrills, and supernatural intrigue, Raakaasa offers an entertaining family watch that has already proven its mettle at both the box office and on digital charts.
