Ranabaali Documentary Series Explores Forgotten Warriors

Ranabaali – Never Forget The Truth has released its third episode, titled The Men We Forgot, on YouTube. The four part documentary accompanies Rahul Sankrityan’s upcoming period action drama, starring Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna, and explores the historical research behind the film’s world.

In the latest episode, Rahul Sankrityan explains how several legendary warriors from Rayalaseema influenced the creation of Ranabaali’s titular character. The filmmaker says stories of local Palegars and their courage continue to survive through traditional ballads and oral histories across villages in the region.

Rahul specifically discusses Budda Vengal Reddy, Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy and Gadekal Bobbili Nagireddy. He says their courage, resilience and commitment to their people helped shape the film’s central warrior. Historical accounts also document Vengal Reddy’s humanitarian work during famine and Narasimha Reddy’s rebellion against Company rule.

According to Rahul, his research began taking shape after he encountered the story of Gadekal Bobbili Nagireddy, whose legend contributed to the conception of Ranabaali. The director also drew from accounts of the devastating famine era and Budda Vengal Reddy’s efforts to provide food and support to starving people. The film is set against a colonial era backdrop and explores oppression, resistance and forgotten histories.

Presented by T-Series and produced by Naveen Yerneni and Y. Ravi Shankar under Mythri Movie Makers, Ranabaali is scheduled for worldwide release on October 16, 2026, during Vijayadashami. The fourth documentary episode, The Last Load, is expected to be announced soon, completing the promotional series.

- Veda