Streaming now on SonyLIV, Mayasabha: The Rise of the Titans is a bold Telugu political drama that immerses viewers in the turbulent world of Andhra Pradesh politics spanning the 1970s to 1990s. Directed by Deva Katta and Kiran Jay Kumar, this nine-episode saga weaves a fictional narrative inspired by real-life political dynamics, delivering a compelling blend of ambition, loyalty, and rivalry. With stellar performances, gritty realism, and a nuanced take on caste and power, Mayasabha stands out as a must-watch for fans of intense, character-driven storytelling.
Plot: A Tale of Friendship and Fractured Ideals
Mayasabha centers on Kakarla Krishnama Naidu (Aadhi Pinisetty) and MS Rami Reddy (Chaitanya Rao Madadi), two young men from contrasting backgrounds whose paths converge in the volatile political landscape of Andhra Pradesh. Naidu, a determined student leader from a humble farming family, dreams of reshaping society through politics. Reddy, a charismatic medical student from a powerful political lineage, initially resists his family’s legacy but is drawn into the fray. Their friendship, forged in shared ideals, becomes the heart of the series—until ambition, caste dynamics, and political machinations drive a wedge between them.
The show unfolds across decades, capturing pivotal moments like the Emergency, caste-based tensions, and political upheavals. While fictional, the narrative echoes real-life figures and events, adding a layer of intrigue for those familiar with Andhra’s political history. The series masterfully balances personal drama with the broader socio-political context, making it both a character study and a commentary on power’s corrupting allure.
Performances: A Powerhouse Ensemble
Aadhi Pinisetty delivers a magnetic performance as Naidu, portraying a man whose quiet intensity and calculated moves mask a burning ambition. His ability to convey both vulnerability and ruthlessness makes Naidu a standout character. Chaitanya Rao Madadi matches him as Reddy, bringing emotional depth to a role torn between loyalty and personal conviction. Their chemistry—rooted in real-life friendship, as revealed by director Deva Katta—lends authenticity to their evolving bond and eventual rivalry.
The supporting cast is equally impressive. Sai Kumar shines as a seasoned political titan, exuding gravitas in every scene. Divya Dutta, playing a formidable strategist reminiscent of a historical figure, commands attention, though her role occasionally veers toward caricature due to the script’s heavy-handed tone. Actors like Tanya Ravichandran, Ravindra Vijay, and Shatru add depth, though some characters feel underutilized, leaving room for more exploration in future seasons.
Direction and Writing: Bold Yet Flawed
Deva Katta, known for films like Prasthanam and Republic, brings his signature intensity to Mayasabha. Alongside co-director Kiran Jay Kumar, he crafts a world that feels lived-in, with meticulous attention to the era’s political and social fabric. The writing is sharp, packed with hard-hitting dialogues that capture the era’s caste tensions and political gamesmanship. However, the pacing falters in the middle episodes, with subplots on student politics and historical events dragging the narrative. Tighter editing could have streamlined these segments, keeping the momentum consistent.
The series’ strength lies in its refusal to take sides. It presents a balanced view of its protagonists, neither glorifying nor vilifying them. This neutrality, combined with its unflinching portrayal of caste and power dynamics, makes Mayasabha both provocative and thought-provoking. However, its reliance on familiar political drama tropes and occasional predictability slightly dampens its impact.
Technical Craft: Immersive and Authentic
The production design is a highlight, vividly recreating the 1970s and 1990s Andhra Pradesh. From dusty rural landscapes to bustling political rallies, cinematographers Suresh Ragutu and Gnana Shekar V.S. capture the era’s texture with gritty realism. The art direction deserves praise for its attention to detail, from period-specific costumes to authentic set pieces. Shakthikanth Karthick’s music, while energetic, sometimes overwhelms the drama, leaning too heavily on loud cues where subtlety could have amplified emotional beats. Editor Praveen K.L. maintains a cohesive narrative, though some scenes could have been trimmed for sharper pacing.
Themes and Impact: A Mirror to Society
Mayasabha doesn’t shy away from heavy themes—caste oppression, political betrayal, and the moral cost of ambition. It’s a slow-burn thriller that rewards patient viewers with its layered exploration of human nature and power. While marketed as fiction, its parallels to real-life political figures like N. Chandrababu Naidu and Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy invite debate, potentially sparking controversy. Yet, this grounding in reality enhances its relevance, offering a lens into Andhra’s political history and its enduring caste fault lines.
The series isn’t family-friendly, with violent scenes and mature themes that demand a discerning audience. For viewers unfamiliar with the regional context, some nuances may be lost, but the universal themes of friendship, betrayal, and ambition keep it accessible.
Verdict: A Gripping, Ambitious Saga
Mayasabha: The Rise of the Titans is a bold addition to SonyLIV’s 2025 lineup, joining acclaimed originals like The Hunt and Kankhajura. It’s not without flaws—pacing issues and underdeveloped characters occasionally hinder its flow—but its strengths outweigh these hiccups. With stellar performances, a richly crafted world, and a narrative that dares to tackle sensitive topics, Mayasabha is a compelling watch for those who crave high-stakes political drama with a regional soul.
Rating: 3.5/5
If you’re drawn to intense, character-driven stories that blend history with fiction, Mayasabha is worth your time. Stream it now on SonyLIV and brace for a political rollercoaster that sets the stage for an explosive second season.
