The Telugu film industry, also known as Tollywood, is gearing up for an incredible year in 2026, with a lineup of massive releases, star-studded projects, and high-budget spectacles. Following a successful run in 2025 with several blockbusters, 2026 is shaping up to be even bigger, with top actors like Prabhas, Allu Arjun, Ram Charan, Jr NTR, Mahesh Babu, and Vijay Deverakonda leading the charge.
From mythological sagas to futuristic thrillers, and from emotional dramas to pan-India action spectacles, these upcoming Telugu films are set to redefine Indian cinema’s scale and storytelling. Let’s take a detailed look at the Top 10 Telugu Movies Releasing in 2026, along with their expected release dates, cast, storylines, and production details.
1. Project K: Part 2 (Kalki Universe Expansion)
Cast: Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, Disha Patani
Director: Nag Ashwin
Production: Vyjayanthi Movies
Expected Release: January 2026
After the phenomenal success of Kalki 2898 AD, director Nag Ashwin is all set to expand the cinematic universe with Project K: Part 2. The movie will continue the futuristic mythological storyline, exploring the rise of a new era after the destruction of Kashi. Expect stunning visuals, VFX-heavy sequences, and Prabhas in his most powerful avatar yet.
2. Pushpa: The Rule – Part 3
Cast: Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil
Director: Sukumar
Production: Mythri Movie Makers
Expected Release: Mid 2026
After the massive success of Pushpa 2: The Rule, director Sukumar reportedly plans to conclude the saga with Pushpa 3. The film will delve deeper into Pushpa Raj’s dominance and his final clash with Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat. Fans can expect intense action, raw emotion, and chart-topping music by Devi Sri Prasad.
3. SSMB 30 (Mahesh Babu – Rajamouli Project)
Cast: Mahesh Babu (as a globetrotting adventurer)
Director: S.S. Rajamouli
Production: KL Narayana, SSMB29 Productions
Expected Release: August 2026
This film is undoubtedly one of India’s most awaited projects. Directed by S.S. Rajamouli and starring Mahesh Babu, the film is rumored to be a jungle-based global adventure with massive scale and international settings. It’s being touted as “India’s answer to Indiana Jones,” with world-class action choreography and groundbreaking visuals.
4. NTR 31
Cast: Jr NTR, Shruti Haasan
Director: Prashanth Neel
Production: Mythri Movie Makers & Hombale Films
Expected Release: Late 2026
After Salaar and KGF, Prashanth Neel is joining forces with Jr NTR for a high-octane action spectacle. The movie promises a dark, gritty, and emotional story centered around revenge, loyalty, and power. With NTR’s intense performance and Neel’s trademark style, NTR 31 is expected to be a major pan-India hit.
5. Game Changer
Cast: Ram Charan, Kiara Advani, SJ Suryah
Director: Shankar
Production: Dil Raju
Expected Release: February 2026
Ram Charan’s Game Changer has already built massive anticipation. The film, directed by visionary Shankar, is a political action thriller focusing on electoral reform and justice. With a blend of Shankar’s social messaging and Charan’s magnetic screen presence, it is expected to dominate both Telugu and Hindi markets.
6. VD13
Cast: Vijay Deverakonda, Mrunal Thakur
Director: Parasuram Petla
Production: GA2 Pictures
Expected Release: May 2026
Vijay Deverakonda reunites with director Parasuram after Geetha Govindam for another heartwarming romantic entertainer. The film is said to mix romance, family emotions, and powerful dialogues. Mrunal Thakur plays the female lead, adding freshness to the project.
7. Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 2
Cast: Pawan Kalyan, Nidhhi Agerwal
Director: Krish Jagarlamudi
Production: Mega Surya Production
Expected Release: March 2026
After delays in production, Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 2 is finally expected in 2026. The story continues the epic saga of the Robin Hood-like hero Veera Mallu, who stands against tyranny in the Mughal era. With large-scale war sequences and grand sets, it promises a visual treat for fans of historical adventure cinema.
8. Devara: Part 2
Cast: Jr NTR, Janhvi Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan
Director: Koratala Siva
Production: Yuvasudha Arts, NTR Arts
Expected Release: October 2026
Following Devara Part 1, the second chapter will further explore the conflict between land, power, and justice. With Jr NTR in dual roles, fans can expect an emotional rollercoaster and some of the biggest action scenes ever filmed in Indian cinema.
9. Spirit
Cast: Prabhas, Kiara Advani
Director: Sandeep Reddy Vanga
Production: T-Series, Bhadrakali Pictures
Expected Release: December 2026
After Animal, Sandeep Reddy Vanga is teaming up with Prabhas for Spirit, a cop-based action drama. The film promises raw intensity, emotional conflict, and stylish execution. Prabhas plays a fearless police officer, while the film’s music and dialogues are expected to be major highlights.
10. Salaar 2: Shouryaanga Parvam
Cast: Prabhas, Prithviraj Sukumaran, Shruti Haasan
Director: Prashanth Neel
Production: Hombale Films
Expected Release: End of 2026
The much-awaited sequel to Salaar will continue the journey of Deva as he rises against a corrupt empire. With Prashanth Neel at the helm, fans can expect an action-packed extravaganza filled with emotion, brotherhood, and vengeance.
The year 2026 will be a milestone for Telugu cinema, offering audiences across India and the world an array of big-budget action films, emotional dramas, and visually stunning epics. With top-tier directors and A-list stars leading the charge, Tollywood is all set to dominate the pan-India box office like never before.
Whether you’re a fan of Prabhas’ grandeur, Jr NTR’s intensity, or Allu Arjun’s swagger — 2026 will be a golden year for Telugu movie lovers.
