Raju Yadav Review

Raju Yadav (Getup Srinu), who failed his degree exams, is a good-for-nothing youngster in his village. During a local cricket match, an injury leads to stitches that permanently fix his face into a smile unless he undergoes a costly operation, which his family cannot afford.

Then Raju falls in love with Sweety (Ankita Kharat) after a chance meeting at a police station where both Sweety and Raju are witnesses to a court marriage. Despite initial misunderstandings due to his perpetual smile, they form a bond. Sweety's job in Hyderabad leads her away, but Raju follows, determined to win her over.

Raju Yadav's narrative treads familiar ground, reminiscent of films like RX100. The first half is a blend of love and comedy revolving around Raju's unique predicament. The second half shifts to Hyderabad, where Raju's pursuit of Sweety continues. Despite a mostly old-fashioned storyline, the director injects freshness through Raju's ever-smiling face. However, some scenes lack conviction, though the blend of emotion and humour is handled well.

The positive aspect of this movie is its restraint; it doesn't go overboard. The entire cast appears relatable, with nothing being overdone. Even the main characters resemble ordinary people. The film emphasizes that it's based on true events, and strives to stay authentic without sacrificing storytelling for action sequences, dances, unrealistic jokes and the like. And the movie is overtly conscious to play subtle. However, the downside is that it feels more like a TV movie for the same reason. Those accustomed to grand spectacles from a film will likely not enjoy this one. And that group comprises a significant portion of the audiences in the Telugu States.

Getup Srinu transitions from his comedic television persona to a leading role with aplomb. His portrayal of Raju is both endearing and emotionally engaging, proving he can handle more than just comic roles. Ankita Kharat shines as the modern girl, adding charm and depth to her character. The supporting cast, portraying friends and family, also delivers commendable performances. But Chakrapani Ananda as Raju's father is the most endearing of the lot.

The cinematography captures the essence of local bastis and real locations, adding authenticity to the film. Harshavardhan Rameshwar's music complements the narrative well, with meaningful lyrics and memorable songs. Suresh Bobbili's background score particularly stands out, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes. Despite the cliched story, Krishnamachari's direction brings a fresh perspective.

Raju Yadav is a heartwarming tragi-comedy that explores the life of a boy with a unique problem and his sincere love story. The film mixes humour with emotion effectively, making it a relatable and entertaining watch despite its visibly shoestring budget. As the proverb goes, "Laughter is the best medicine", and Raju Yadav serves up a hearty dose with a side of genuine sentiment.