Odela 2, a Telugu supernatural thriller starring Tamannaah Bhatia, premiered on Amazon Prime Video, captivating audiences with its eerie narrative and intense visuals. Directed by Ashok Teja, the film hit theaters on April 17, 2025, in Telangana and other regions, earning mixed reviews for its bold horror elements. Following a modest theatrical run, the sequel to Odela Railway Station (2022) transitioned to OTT, available in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam. The digital release, secured for Rs. 18 crore, fulfills fans’ anticipation for a chilling home-viewing experience.
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A Haunting Tale Unfolds
Set in the fictional village of Odela, Telangana, Odela 2 delves into supernatural terror. The story follows the vengeful spirit of Tirupati (Vasishta N. Simha), a serial rapist and murderer killed by his wife, Radha (Hebah Patel), in the first film. Denied cremation, his spirit returns six months later, possessing men and targeting newlywed brides. Enter Shiva Shakthi (Tamannaah), a fierce Naga Sadhu and Lord Shiva devotee, who arrives to confront the malevolent force. With rituals and spiritual strength, she battles Tirupati’s chaos, aided by a local Muslim baba (Murali Sharma). The 150-minute film, rated ‘A’ for its gore, explores themes of divine justice and village folklore.
Tamannaah’s Powerful Performance
Tamannaah’s portrayal of Shiva Shakthi, a spiritually awakened sadhvi, anchors the film. Her commanding presence and transformation into an Aghori have drawn praise, though critics noted a sluggish second half and reliance on familiar horror tropes. B. Ajaneesh Loknath’s soundtrack, blending Telugu folk and devotional motifs, enhances the eerie atmosphere. Tracks like “Yemulada Rajanna” and “Giya Giya Joy of Odela” amplify the film’s cultural vibe. Soundararajan’s cinematography captures the village’s haunting beauty, despite narrative flaws.
OTT Release and Reception
Amazon Prime Video acquired Odela 2’s streaming rights before its theatrical debut, reflecting its market appeal. The film’s early OTT release, just three weeks after theaters, signals its underwhelming box office performance. Reviews, like The Times of India’s 2.5/5 rating, commend Tamannaah’s intensity but critique the uneven pacing. Posts on X echo mixed sentiments, with some praising the last 15 minutes and Tamannaah’s role, while others found the storyline predictable. Fans of supernatural thrillers can stream it for its bold visuals and rooted horror.
A Genre-Pushing Saga
Despite its flaws, Odela 2 pushes Indian cinema’s horror boundaries with its spiritual narrative and Tamannaah’s standout performance. For the best experience, watch Odela Railway Station first on Aha. Available on Prime Video, this thriller promises a gripping, if uneven, ride for genre enthusiasts.
-By Manoj H
