Korean Kanakaraju vs Lokesh Kanagaraj Face Off at Telugu Box Office

Varun Tej’s Korean Kanakaraju Makes a Splash

Varun Tej’s latest film, Korean Kanakaraju, released on August 7, 2026, and quickly became the centre of attention at the Telugu box office. Known for his willingness to experiment, Varun Tej teamed up with director Merlapaka Gandhi for this horror comedy, produced by UV Creations in association with First Frame Entertainments. The film stands out for its Indo-Korean blend, with Varun Tej playing dual roles—a spirited Anantapur native and a Korean mobster called Four Fingers. Ritika Nayak stars as the female lead, while Satya and Sunil add comic flair in pivotal roles. Thaman’s energetic music and the viral song 'Kamsahamnida' have kept the buzz alive, with the film’s promotional campaign drawing strong social media engagement.

Advance bookings for Korean Kanakaraju were robust across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and overseas, with paid premieres on August 6 seeing packed houses. The film received a U/A certificate and runs for 2 hours and 36 minutes. Early feedback from trade circles and the censor board was positive, and the open ending—shifting the story towards Africa—sets up a sequel, which director Gandhi has confirmed is already in the works. Financially, the film secured a ₹26 crore non-theatrical business deal ahead of release, offsetting much of its ₹38 crore budget.

Lokesh Kanagaraj’s DC: The Bloody Valentine Debuts as Actor

On the same Friday, DC: The Bloody Valentine arrived in Telugu, featuring celebrated Tamil director Lokesh Kanagaraj in his first lead acting role. Directed by Arun Matheswaran, the film stars Wamiqa Gabbi opposite Kanagaraj, with music by Anirudh Ravichander. Already a hit among Tamil audiences, DC’s Telugu release added to the diversity at the box office, offering intense drama in contrast to Korean Kanakaraju’s horror comedy.

Audience Response and Genre Showdown

Korean Kanakaraju’s unique mix of supernatural comedy and cross-cultural storytelling resonated with Telugu audiences, with fans praising Varun Tej’s Rayalaseema accent and comic timing. The film’s teasers, especially one launched by superstar Prabhas, and its songs generated strong online traction. Meanwhile, DC: The Bloody Valentine drew curiosity for Lokesh Kanagaraj’s acting debut, expanding his appeal beyond direction.

With both films releasing alongside other notable titles, Telugu moviegoers enjoyed a varied weekend at the theatres. Korean Kanakaraju’s open ending and confirmed sequel have left fans eager for the next chapter, while DC’s performance is being closely watched as Lokesh Kanagaraj explores new territory as an actor.