Actors turning directors: A growing trend in Telugu Cinema

In the Tamil film industry, directors often become actors. After delivering a hit or two, many filmmakers step in front of the camera and continue their careers as lead actors. Tamil cinema has a long list of such director-actors, from Bhagyaraja to SJ Suryah, and from Pradeep Ranganathan to Lokesh Kanagaraj.

In Telugu cinema, however, the trend has traditionally been the other way around. Actors have often been fascinated by filmmaking and preferred to wield the megaphone. From the late N.T. Rama Rao to Pawan Kalyan, several stars have donned the director’s hat. After a brief lull, the trend is once again gaining momentum.

While actors like Adivi Sesh, who began as a director-actor, have chosen to focus primarily on acting in recent years, a new generation of stars is now testing the waters behind the camera. Take a look:

Ram Pothineni

Ram Pothineni recently announced that he will direct his next film. After playing lead roles in 22 films, he has decided to wield the megaphone for the first time. His 23rd film, tentatively titled RAPO23, will feature him as both lead actor and director. Produced by his brother Krishna Pothineni, the film is set to go on floors soon, with Ram playing the character Veera.

Kiran Abbavaram

Kiran Abbavaram has steadily built a reputation among the younger generation of actors. Having completed 11 films as a lead actor, he is now turning director. He has penned a story titled “Reality” and will direct it himself. Sudhakar Chaganti is producing the project, which begins production on June 11, 2026.

Vishwaksen

Vishwaksen has already proven his abilities as a filmmaker alongside his acting career. He directed films such as “Falaknuma Das” and earned appreciation for his work behind the camera. He is currently directing and acting in “Cult”, which is scheduled for release later this year.

Vishal

Though not technically a Telugu star, Vishal enjoys a strong following among Telugu audiences. The Tamil actor has now turned director. His directorial debut is titled “Magudam” in Tamil, while the Telugu dubbed version is titled “Makutam”. The teaser was released today, generating curiosity about his first venture behind the camera.