Khaleja Movie Review: A Cult Classic That Deserves Reappraisal
Khaleja (2010), directed by Trivikram Srinivas and starring Mahesh Babu and Anushka Shetty, is a Telugu-language action drama that arrived with sky-high expectations but initially stumbled at the box office. Over time, however, it has carved out a niche as a cult favorite, celebrated for its unique blend of action, comedy, and philosophical undertones. This review delves into the film’s strengths, weaknesses, and enduring appeal, exploring why Khaleja remains a significant entry in Telugu cinema and a testament to Mahesh Babu’s charisma.
Plot Overview
Khaleja follows G. Seetharama Raju, or Raju (Mahesh Babu), a quick-witted and carefree taxi driver in Hyderabad who finds himself entangled in a larger-than-life mission. A remote village, Pali, is plagued by a mysterious disease that claims lives indiscriminately, leaving its people in despair. The village priest prophesies that a divine savior will rescue them, and his assistant, Siddhappa (Shafi), identifies Raju as this prophesied figure. Raju, however, is far from a conventional hero—he’s a man who avoids trouble and prioritizes his own survival. Alongside Subhashini (Anushka Shetty), a woman whose presence seems to bring bad luck, Raju is drawn into a conflict involving a ruthless businessman, GK (Prakash Raj), whose greed for iridium deposits in Pali fuels the village’s woes. The narrative weaves action, comedy, and spiritual elements, culminating in Raju’s transformation into an unlikely protector.
Mahesh Babu’s Tour de Force
At the heart of Khaleja is Mahesh Babu’s electrifying performance as Raju. After a three-year hiatus, Mahesh returned with a role that showcased a new dimension of his acting prowess. Unlike his earlier intense or stoic characters, Raju is talkative, humorous, and effortlessly charismatic. Mahesh’s dialogue delivery, laced with Trivikram’s signature wit, is a standout, turning even mundane lines into laugh-out-loud moments. His body language—confident yet relatable—makes Raju a character audiences can root for, whether he’s cracking jokes or taking on goons. The film’s emotional depth, particularly in the second half, allows Mahesh to flex his dramatic skills, making Raju’s evolution from a reluctant hero to a selfless savior both believable and inspiring. Fans often cite lines like “Saayintharam white dress lo aina okka manishi kalusthaadu anamaata” as iconic, highlighting Mahesh’s ability to elevate Trivikram’s writing.
Trivikram’s Vision: A Mixed Bag
Trivikram Srinivas, known for his sharp dialogues and intricate storytelling, brings a bold vision to Khaleja. The film attempts to blend commercial entertainment with a deeper message about selflessness and divinity, encapsulated in the Swami Vivekananda-inspired theme: “One who lives for others with unselfishness and love lives forever.” This philosophical underpinning sets Khaleja apart from typical Telugu masala films, but its execution is uneven. The first half is a riot of comedy and character-building, with Raju’s misadventures and Subhashini’s “bad luck” providing ample humor. However, the second half, where the spiritual and action elements take center stage, feels disjointed. The pacing falters, and the “God-Man” concept—Raju being hailed as a divine figure—can be confusing for viewers expecting a straightforward action flick. Trivikram’s attempt to thread a complex narrative, inspired by films like Magadheera and Baba, sometimes sacrifices clarity for ambition.
Supporting Cast and Technical Aspects
Anushka Shetty’s Subhashini is a refreshing departure from the typical heroine role. Her character, portrayed as an unlucky girl, adds a comedic spark, though her chemistry with Mahesh is described as inconsistent by some critics. Anushka’s screen presence and subtle performance complement the film, but her role is underutilized in the second half, relegated to songs and minimal plot involvement. Prakash Raj as the antagonist GK delivers a competent performance, though his character lacks the menacing depth needed for a stronger climax. Supporting actors like Shafi, Rao Ramesh, Sunil, and Brahmanandam shine in their respective roles, with Rao Ramesh’s intense portrayal of a spiritual guide and Sunil’s comedic timing standing out.
Technically, Khaleja has highs and lows. The cinematography by Yash Bhatt and Sunil Patel captures Rajasthan’s arid landscapes beautifully, adding a vibrant backdrop to the action. Action sequences, choreographed by Peter Heins and Ram-Lakshman, are a highlight, with Mahesh’s stunts blending style and raw energy, though some defy physics. Mani Sharma’s music, however, is a mixed bag. While “Sada Siva Sanyasi” and “Makathika Maya” are memorable, other songs feel forgettable, and the background score doesn’t always elevate the drama. Editing by Sreekar Prasad is crisp in the first half but could have tightened the second half’s pacing.
Reception and Cult Status
Upon release on October 7, 2010, Khaleja faced mixed reviews and underperformed at the box office, with critics citing its convoluted screenplay and lengthy climax as drawbacks. Cinejosh called it “not worth the three-year wait,” pointing to Trivikram’s failure to fully capitalize on Mahesh’s star power. However, the film’s fortunes changed over time. Its reappraisal, fueled by repeat viewings on television and online platforms, highlighted the depth of its dialogues and Mahesh’s stellar performance. The film’s inclusion in Film Companion’s “25 Greatest Telugu Films of the Decade” underscores its growing legacy. Its two Filmfare Awards South—for Best Male Playback Singer and Best Lyricist—further validate its artistic merits.
Why Khaleja Resonates
Khaleja’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to balance entertainment with a meaningful message. The idea that divinity resides in selfless acts resonates deeply, especially in a commercial cinema landscape often dominated by formulaic narratives. Mahesh’s portrayal of Raju as a flawed yet heroic figure makes him relatable, while Trivikram’s witty dialogues ensure repeat watchability. Fans expressed frustration over its initial failure, with one user lamenting, “I don’t know how this movie became a flop; Telugu people are mad.” The film’s cult status is also fueled by moments like the interval bang and Mahesh’s action sequences, which continue to draw cheers.
Final Verdict
Khaleja is a film that demands patience to appreciate its nuances. While it doesn’t match the polish of Trivikram and Mahesh’s previous collaboration, Athadu, it’s a bold experiment that blends humor, action, and philosophy with mixed success. Mahesh Babu’s magnetic performance, coupled with Trivikram’s clever writing, makes it a rewarding watch for those willing to overlook its flaws. For fans of Telugu cinema or Mahesh Babu, Khaleja is a must-watch, offering both entertainment and a thought-provoking message. Its journey from box-office disappointment to cult classic is a reminder that some films need time to find their audience.
Rating: 7.5/10
Khaleja is a testament to Mahesh Babu’s star power and Trivikram’s ambition, a film that’s flawed but unforgettable. Watch it for the dialogues, the action, and a hero who becomes a god not by choice, but by courage.
Khaleja is a testament to Mahesh Babu’s star power and Trivikram’s ambition, a film that’s flawed but unforgettable. Watch it for the dialogues, the action, and a hero who becomes a god not by choice, but by courage.