Konda Polam is a Telugu adventure drama based on Sannapureddy Venkataramireddy’s acclaimed novel of the same name. The film follows Ravindra Yadav (Vaisshnav Tej), a young man from a shepherding family in a drought-hit village near the Nallamala forest. After failing to secure a job in Hyderabad despite multiple attempts, Ravindra returns to his village.

Under unavoidable circumstances, he joins his father (Sai Chand), childhood friend Obulamma (Rakul Preet Singh), and other villagers in the traditional practice of Konda Polam—a 40-day trek into the forest to find grazing grounds and water for their livestock. Along the way, they face wild animals, smugglers cutting down precious Bommakarra trees, and the harsh realities of survival in the wilderness.

The narrative is framed through Ravindra’s UPSC IFS interview, where he recounts how this experience transforms him from a timid, insecure young man into a confident and capable individual.

Highlights

Unique premise showcasing the life of shepherds in Nallamala forests
Vaishnav Tej’s and Rakul Preet Singh’s performances
Authentic rural and forest settings captured through cinematography
M.M. Keeravani’s impactful background score

Drawbacks

Slow first half with uneven pacing
Lack of a strong antagonist or central conflict
Some sequences feel repetitive and cinematic liberties dilute realism
Love tracks and certain monologues appear forced

Verdict

Konda Polam is a commendable attempt to adapt a literary work to cinema, with strong performances, authentic visuals, and a unique premise. However, slow pacing, minor narrative flaws, and lack of cinematic tension prevent it from being a fully engaging experience. For viewers interested in rural dramas and coming-of-age tales set against nature’s backdrop, the film offers a worthwhile watch.