Operation Padma Movie Review
Movie: Operation Padma
Release Date: 6 February 2026
CBFC Rating: UA
Run-time: 2h 28m
Cast: Naresh Medi, Ranadheer Beesu, Rajitha Sandy, Raghupathi Reddy, Mandalapu Raghavayya
Editor: Jagadeesh KK
Music: Subhash Anand
Cinematography: Kalyan Sami, Pavanmani
Producers: Mandalapu Raghavayya, Mandalapu Rambabu
Written and Directed by Karthikeya V
Political espionage thriller Operation Padma directed by Karthikeya V released in theatres on February 6. The film promises a thrilling ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Let’s check-out the review.
Plot
The narrative of Operation Padma centers on a political earthquake. Nandi Kishore, a former Home Minister and party loyalist, resigns to become a whistleblower. By exposing a massive scam within the Civil Supplies department, he transforms into the state’s conscience keeper, earning immense public adoration but also a target on his back. To silence him, a shadowy mastermind hires Kuldeep (Ranadheer Beesu), a cold blooded assassin who has never failed a mission. In response, a specialized team of private detectives launches Operation Padma, a high octane race against time to outmaneuver the killer.
Performances
The performances in the film are noteworthy, with Ranadheer Beesu delivering a chilling portrayal of Kuldeep, the evil genius assassin. He is chilling portraying an evil genius whose presence looms large even when he isn’t on screen. The detective ensemble, particularly Raghupathi Reddy Gunda and Rajitha Sandy, brings a sense of desperate urgency to the mission.The female characters are notably written breaking tropes by adding both depth and complexity.
Highlights
Thrilling Action
Solid Performances
Gritty Realism
Stylish Cinematography
Drawbacks
Lengthy First Half
Predictable Twist
Analysis
Director Karthikeya V manages a complex web of characters while maintaining a clear, driving focus on the central conspiracy. The film’s strength lies in its grounded yet stylish characterizations, making it a thrilling ride that keeps you engaged till the end. The psychological weight of the film comes from the collision of two unstoppable forces, making it a guessing game.
The treatment is remarkably earnest, especially in the second hour, where the director strips away all extraneous elements to focus solely on the high stakes game of chess between the good and the bad. Even though the twist is somewhat predictable, The film’s climax is intense and satisfying, leaving the audience with a lasting impression. Lengthy first half and drag at times are on the downside.
The film’s technical aspects are noteworthy, with Kalyan Sami and Pavanmani’s cinematography capturing the tension of surveillance through sharp, moody visuals. Subhash Anand’s score pulses with the heartbeat of a thriller, while the second half remains a lean, mean investigative machine. Stunts by Akhil Nakirekanti stunts gives a realistic impact with hand to hand combat sequences. The editing by Jagadeesh is crisp, and the production values are appreciable, making the film visually slick.
Rating: 2.5 / 5
Bottom-line: Fairly Engaging Thriller
