Teja Sajja’s ‘Mirai’ Redefines Tollywood: Mythology, VFX, and Storytelling Take Center Stage

Tollywood is witnessing a transformative moment as Teja Sajja’s fantasy adventure, Mirai, breaks free from the traditional star-driven formula, emerging as a box office sensation. Following the success of his surprise hit Hanu-Man (2024), Sajja has once again demonstrated that compelling narratives rooted in Indian mythology, supported by high-quality VFX, are increasingly resonating with audiences.

In a year marked by mixed performances—where even big-budget star-studded films like Daaku Maharaaj and Sankranthiki Vasthunaam soared, while titles such as Game Changer, Kuberaa, HIT 3, and Kingdom fell short—Mirai stands out as a classic underdog triumph. With a domestic net collection of Rs 56.75 crore in just five days and an opening weekend gross of Rs 71.50 crore, the film signals a shift from traditional star power to story-driven success.

The secret behind Mirai’s appeal lies in its mythological narrative—a “Super Yodha” on a quest to protect sacred scriptures from a dark sorcerer—blending action, culture, and emotional resonance. The film’s visuals and VFX quality have also struck a chord with younger audiences, particularly Gen-Z viewers accustomed to international fantasy and superhero content. Comparisons with films like the Malayalam superhero Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra and anime such as Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle underscore how folklore-driven fantasy is gaining traction in Indian cinema.

However, the question remains whether Mirai can maintain its momentum. Upcoming heavy-hitters such as OG and Vrusshabha could challenge its dominance. Yet, the broader impact of Mirai lies in its strategic lesson: compelling stories enriched with mythological themes and cutting-edge VFX can now rival traditional star-centric formulas, opening new avenues for filmmakers in Telugu cinema.