Thandel (lit. 'Captain of the boat')[4] is a 2025 Indian Telugu-language romantic action thriller film[5] written and directed by Chandoo Mondeti.[6] Produced by Bunny Vasu under Geetha Arts, and starring Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi.[7] The film is based on a real-life incident that occurred in 2018, depicting how Pakistani forces captured a fisherman from Srikakulam in international waters.[8][9]
Thandel was initially scheduled to be released in January 2025, on the occasion of Sankranthi, but was postponed. The film was released in theatres on 7 February 2025 to mixed reviews from critics, who praised the lead cast's performance, visuals and soundtrack, while the narration received criticism. The film has grossed over ₹100 crores worldwide and is the fourth highest-grossing Telugu film of 2025 as well as the eighth highest-grossing Indian film of 2025.
