Telugu romantic comedy Funky, starring Vishwak Sen and Kayadu Lohar, directed by Anudeep KV, released theatrically on February 13, 2026. After mixed reviews but steady youth turnout, the film has secured OTT streaming rights. It will premiere on Netflix following its theatrical run, marking a crucial comeback for Vishwak Sen.
Key Highlights
Theatrical Release: Funky hit cinemas on February 13, 2026, drawing mixed reviews but steady crowds, especially among younger audiences.
OTT Platform: The film’s digital streaming rights have been acquired by Netflix, ensuring a wide reach after its big-screen run.
Star Power:
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Vishwak Sen, dubbed Tollywood’s “Mass Ka Daas,” headlines the film, aiming for a strong comeback after recent setbacks.
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Kayadu Lohar plays the female lead, adding freshness and glamour to the rom-com narrative.
Director’s Vision: Helmed by Anudeep KV, known for his quirky comedy style (Jathi Ratnalu fame), the film blends humor with romance, targeting urban youth.
Audience Response: Despite mixed critical reception, the film has resonated with college-goers and young professionals, sustaining box-office momentum.
Production Backing: Produced under Srikara Studios, the film’s OTT deal reflects confidence in its digital appeal.
Streaming Timeline: While the exact OTT premiere date is yet to be announced, industry insiders suggest a mid-March 2026 release window on Netflix.
Why This Matters
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Career Turning Point: For Vishwak Sen, Funky is seen as a career revival project, potentially restoring his box-office credibility.
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OTT Expansion: The Netflix deal highlights the growing importance of digital platforms in amplifying regional cinema’s reach.
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Youth-Centric Appeal: With its quirky humor and relatable romance, Funky is positioned to perform strongly in the OTT space, especially among younger demographics.
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Industry Trend: The move underscores a broader Tollywood trend where films with mixed theatrical runs find second life on streaming platforms.
Closing Note
Funky may have faced mixed reviews in theatres, but its OTT journey promises fresh momentum. With Netflix as its digital home, the Vishwak Sen–Kayadu Lohar rom-com is poised to capture a wider audience, reaffirming the growing synergy between Tollywood and global streaming platforms.
Sources: The Economic Times, Times Now, Hindustan Times Telugu