Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi
Table of Contents
Introduction
Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi has emerged as one of the most anticipated Telugu films of early 2026, generating significant buzz for multiple reasons. This upcoming comedy-drama stars Tharun Bhascker and Eesha Rebba in lead roles and serves as the official Telugu remake of the critically acclaimed Malayalam film Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey (2022).
The film has attracted considerable attention not only for adapting a beloved story into a Godavari-region setting but also because of recent release date changes that have created confusion among audiences. As of January 21, 2026, multiple Telugu entertainment outlets confirm the film will now release on January 30, 2026—one week later than the previously announced date of January 23, 2026.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi, including verified release information, complete cast details, story insights, and the current status of OTT release—all backed by the latest reports from trusted Telugu entertainment sources.
The Meaning Behind "Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi"
Before diving into the film details, understanding the title adds depth to why the makers chose it for a story about domestic conflict.
In Hindu and yogic traditions, "Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi" is a well-known peace mantra, typically chanted at the conclusion of prayers or spiritual discourses.
Breaking Down the Phrase
| Component | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Om | The primordial sound and symbol of ultimate reality |
| Shanti | Peace or tranquility |
| Shantihi | "May there be peace" (the suffix adds invocation) |
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The word "Shanti" is recited three times to invoke peace at three distinct levels:
- Adhidaivika – External/environmental disturbances
- Adhibhautika – Physical and mental disturbances
- Adhyatmika – Spiritual or existential unrest
The complete phrase translates to: "May there be peace at all levels—physical, mental, and spiritual."
The Deliberate Irony
For a Telugu film dealing with domestic violence, control, and a woman's fight to reclaim her dignity, using this peace mantra as a title creates a powerful contrast. The plea for peace sits atop a story about conflict inside the home—mirroring the tonal approach of the Malayalam original, which used humor to address serious issues.
Latest Release Date Update: January 30, 2026
The confirmed theatrical release date is now January 30, 2026.
Multiple Telugu entertainment outlets have reported that the makers pushed the release by one week from the earlier scheduled date of January 23, 2026.
Sources Confirming the New Date
| Source | Date Reported | Key Information |
|---|---|---|
| 123telugu | January 16, 2026 | First reported the postponement |
| Cinejosh | January 17, 2026 | Confirmed the shift to January 30 |
| Greatandhra | January 20, 2026 | Noted the date change in trade analysis |
| Namasthe Telangana | January 21, 2026 | Reported team's confirmation via promotional video |
Why the Date Changed
While the makers haven't issued a detailed official statement, industry analysis from Greatandhra suggests practical reasons:
- Post-Sankranthi window optimization: The shift gives Sankranthi releases more breathing room at the box office
- Screen allocation: A quieter release corridor helps mid-budget films secure better show allocations
- Marketing reset: The extra week allows the team to realign promotional activities closer to the new opening weekend
Complete Release Date Timeline
Here's the verified journey of the film's release schedule:
| Date | Event | Planned Release |
|---|---|---|
| July 5, 2025 | Title announcement and initial release plan revealed | August 1, 2025 |
| August 8, 2025 | Special Varalakshmi Vratham poster; film confirmed as postponed | TBA |
| December 7-8, 2025 | New date locked; teaser released | January 23, 2026 |
| January 16-21, 2026 | Multiple outlets report postponement | January 30, 2026 |
Important Note: Several database-style listing pages (Plex, FilmiBeat, and some ticketing sites) still display January 23, 2026, as they haven't updated to reflect the newer trade reports.
Story and Plot: What the Film Is About
Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi is a comedy-drama with a strong social core, adapting the successful formula of its Malayalam predecessor while rooting the narrative in Telugu culture.
Central Premise
The film tells the story of Kondaveeti Prashanti, a middle-class young woman who repeatedly compromises for love and family. Her journey involves:
- An initial abusive relationship with a lecturer
- A marriage to Ambati Omkar Naidu, a small-town man from the Godavari region who runs a fishery business
- Facing emotional and physical control within the marriage
- Receiving little support from family and society
- Eventually fighting back and reclaiming her life
Genre Classification
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Genre | Comedy-Drama |
| Secondary Elements | Social Satire, Relationship Drama |
| Tone | Humorous surface with serious undertones |
| Theme | Gender roles, domestic abuse, female empowerment |
Thematic Depth
The film sits at the intersection of rural comedy, relationship drama, and social satire. Key themes include:
- Domestic abuse and coercive control – Portrayed through both physical and emotional dimensions
- Female agency and self-defense – The protagonist secretly prepares to fight back
- Satire of gender expectations – The husband character represents unexamined patriarchal entitlement
- Journey from victimhood to independence – Prashanti eventually builds a successful business and confronts her abuser through legal channels
The title's connection to a peace chant underscores an important message: peace in the home is not the absence of conflict at any cost; it is the presence of justice and respect.
From Malayalam Hit to Telugu Remake
The Original: Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey (2022)
The Malayalam source film became both a critical and commercial success:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Vipin Das |
| Lead Cast | Darshana Rajendran, Basil Joseph |
| Genre | Black comedy / Satire on gender roles |
| Box Office | Approximately ₹43-50 crore gross |
| Critical Reception | Widely praised for handling serious themes with humor |
The original film's premise—a young woman who secretly learns martial arts to fight back against her abusive husband—resonated with audiences across India, especially after its streaming release brought it national attention.
The Telugu Adaptation Strategy
The remake team has emphasized localization rather than scene-for-scene copying:
- Cultural rooting: The story is transplanted from coastal Kerala to the Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh
- Dialect authenticity: Characters speak in Godavari accent and use regional expressions
- Visual identity: The film incorporates local food, lifestyle, and landscape of Rajahmundry
- Casting choices: Tharun Bhascker brings his rooted storyteller-performer image to the role
This approach aims to make the remake feel like an original Telugu story rather than a translated version.
Complete Cast and Crew Details
Lead Cast
| Actor | Character | Character Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tharun Bhascker | Ambati Omkar Naidu | Small-town man from Godavari region; runs a fishery; food-loving and overconfident; represents unexamined patriarchy |
| Eesha Rebba | Kondaveeti Prashanti | Middle-class woman who compromises for love; faces abuse; eventually fights back and builds successful business |
Supporting Cast
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Brahmaji | Key supporting role |
| Rohini | Key supporting role |
Technical Team
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Director | A.R. Sajeev (debut feature) |
| Music Director | Jai Krish (Jay Krish) |
| Cinematographer | Deepak Yeragara |
| Dialogue Writer | Nanda Kishore Emani |
Production
| Banner | Key Personnel |
|---|---|
| S Originals | Srujan Yarabolu |
| Movie Verse Studios | Aditya Pittie, Vivek Krishnani |
| Additional Producers | Anup Chandrasekaran, Sadhik Shaik, Naveen Sanivarapu |
Godavari Setting and Cultural Flavour
One of the film's strongest differentiators is its commitment to authentic regional representation.
Filming Location
The film was shot largely in and around Rajahmundry in Andhra Pradesh, with conscious attention to:
- Local architecture and landscapes
- Godavari riverine environment
- Regional food culture
- Community dynamics
Cultural Elements Highlighted
Based on teaser analysis and promotional coverage:
| Element | Representation |
|---|---|
| Dialect | Authentic Godavari accent |
| Food | Regional cuisine featured prominently |
| Lifestyle | Small-town rhythms and social dynamics |
| Humor | Localized comedy rooted in regional expressions |
Why This Matters
In an interview context, Tharun Bhascker emphasized the "Godari culture and accent" and how the team used Rajahmundry's lived-in details. This positioning serves dual purposes:
- Differentiates from the original: Viewers see it as a regional retelling, not just a translation
- Builds local connect: Helps mid-budget films resonate beyond metro multiplexes
- Leverages Tharun's image: Aligns with his reputation as a rooted storyteller
Music, Teaser, and Promotional Updates
Teaser Analysis
The teaser, released in early December 2025, establishes the film's tone and positioning:
Key Teaser Elements:
- Emphasizes chemistry and clashes between the lead couple
- Showcases the rural Godavari backdrop
- Presents Omkar as a food-loving, overconfident man (even fakes being a Mumbai Indians supporter without knowing cricket)
- Positions Prashanti as soft-spoken but quietly assertive
- Light and humorous surface with hints of deeper tension
Music Updates
| Track | Details |
|---|---|
| Om Shanti Theme | Released January 8, 2026 |
| Composer | Jay Krish |
| Singer | Abhay Jodhpurkar |
| Label | Saregama India Ltd |
| Description | Described as "heart-touching theme song" for a village comedy with engaging drama |
The choice of a lyrical theme track rather than a mass item song signals the makers want audiences to connect emotionally with Prashanti's journey.
Marketing Strategy
The promotional approach appears phased:
- Phase 1: Title and concept reveal (July 2025)
- Phase 2: Teaser and date announcement (December 2025)
- Phase 3: Theme song release (January 2026)
- Phase 4 (Expected): Trailer, additional songs, and interview rounds closer to January 30
OTT Release Status: What's Confirmed
This is the most frequently searched question about the film. Here's the clear, verified status:
Current Official Status
As of January 21, 2026:
| Aspect | Status |
|---|---|
| OTT Platform | NOT CONFIRMED |
| OTT Release Date | NOT ANNOUNCED |
| Satellite Rights | NOT ANNOUNCED |
Major tracking pages including FilmiBeat's OTT tracker list all these categories as "NA" (Not Available).
Why You Might See OTT "Claims" Online
Common reasons for premature OTT claims:
- Auto-generated articles using standard window estimates
- Speculation based on production house relationships
- Content designed to attract search traffic without verification
How to Verify OTT Announcements
Reliable confirmation will come from:
- Official producer banners' social media handles
- OTT platform's own press release or app listing
- Reputable entertainment outlets citing official sources
Expected OTT Window (Industry Pattern)
Based on recent Telugu film patterns:
| Film | Theatrical Release | OTT Release | Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kishkindhapuri | Sep 12, 2025 | Oct 17, 2025 (ZEE5) | ~5 weeks |
| Show Time | Jul 4, 2025 | Late July 2025 (Sun NXT) | ~3 weeks |
| Subham | May 9, 2025 | June 2025 (Disney+ Hotstar) | ~4-6 weeks |
Projected Timeline for Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi: If the film releases theatrically on January 30, 2026, a realistic OTT window could fall between early March and mid-March 2026—but this remains speculation until officially announced.
Potential Platforms
Based on genre and budget tier, likely contenders include:
- Aha Video
- Amazon Prime Video
- ZEE5
- Disney+ Hotstar
- ETV Win (for smaller concept films)
Box Office Strategy and Industry Context
Avoiding Post-Sankranthi Congestion
Sankranthi 2026 delivered several major releases:
| Film | Release Date | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| The Raja Saab | January 9, 2026 | Major pan-India release |
| Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi | January 13, 2026 | Telugu festival release |
| Multiple other titles | Sankranthi corridor | Screen competition |
By moving to January 30, Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi:
- Avoids direct clash with holdover hits
- Gets two extra weekends for exhibitors to monetize Sankranthi films
- Enters a relatively emptier corridor with less competition
Pan-India Strategy
The film's pan-India reach will likely come through:
| Channel | Reach Strategy |
|---|---|
| Theatrical | Telugu states + limited US diaspora release |
| OTT | Subtitled viewership across India (following the original's pattern) |
| Word of mouth | Theme's universal appeal crosses language barriers |
Diaspora Release
US-based chains like LOOK Dine-In Cinemas and platforms like AMC/Atom Tickets have listings prepared, indicating a targeted overseas Telugu diaspora release.
Why Some Websites Show Different Information
If you're confused by conflicting information across different websites, here's why:
Date Discrepancy
| Source Type | Likely Shows | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| News outlets (recent) | January 30, 2026 | Updated with latest trade reports |
| Database/listing sites | January 23, 2026 | Haven't updated metadata yet |
| Ticketing platforms | Mixed | Depends on update frequency |
Title Confusion
Search results sometimes pull in unrelated content:
- "Om Shanti Om" (2007 Hindi film)
- "Om Shanti" (2010 Telugu film)
- Other films with similar names
Always verify you're reading about the Tharun Bhascker-Eesha Rebba version.
OTT Misinformation
Many pages with "OTT release date" headlines exist purely to attract search traffic. The most accurate answer currently is: Not announced.
What This Means for Viewers
Planning Your Theatre Visit
Do:
- Look for shows from January 30, 2026 onwards
- Check local listings closer to the date
- Use official booking apps for accurate showtimes
Don't:
- Rely on older posters showing January 23
- Book based on outdated app information
Is This Film Right for You?
You'll likely enjoy it if:
- You liked Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey and want to see it in a Telugu setting
- You appreciate socially aware comedies that tackle serious issues with humor
- You're interested in Tharun Bhascker's work as an actor
- You enjoy films with strong regional flavor and authentic cultural representation
Be prepared for:
- Scenes depicting domestic conflict and abuse (even if treated with humor)
- Serious themes including manipulation, violence, and trauma
- A film that balances entertainment with social messaging
Theatre vs. OTT Decision
| Choice | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Theatre | Better experience for Godavari backdrop, crowd reactions, and action moments |
| Wait for OTT | Expect 4-6 week wait; convenience of home viewing; likely March 2026 timeframe |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the new release date of Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi?
Multiple Telugu entertainment outlets report the film will release in theatres on January 30, 2026, after being postponed from the earlier date of January 23, 2026.
Is Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi a remake?
Yes, it is the official Telugu remake of the Malayalam film Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey (2022), directed by Vipin Das and starring Darshana Rajendran and Basil Joseph.
Who are the lead actors?
The film stars Tharun Bhascker as Ambati Omkar Naidu and Eesha Rebba as Kondaveeti Prashanti.
Who is the director?
A.R. Sajeev directs the film, making his feature directorial debut.
Has the OTT platform been confirmed?
No. As of January 21, 2026, no official OTT platform or release date has been announced. Major tracking sites list OTT details as "NA."
When can we expect the OTT release?
Based on industry patterns for similar Telugu films, a realistic estimate would be early to mid-March 2026 (4-6 weeks after theatrical release)—but this is not confirmed.
Why do some websites still show January 23, 2026?
Many database-style listing pages haven't updated their information following the recent postponement reports. Always check recent news sources for the latest date.
What is the film about?
The film tells the story of a woman who faces abuse and control in her marriage, receives little support, and eventually fights back to reclaim her life—told as a comedy-drama with social messaging.
Is the movie suitable for family viewing?
The film deals with domestic abuse themes, though treated with humor. It's generally considered suitable for mature family audiences but may not be appropriate for young children.
Where was the film shot?
Primarily in and around Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, with emphasis on authentic Godavari region culture and dialect.
Who composed the music?
Jai Krish (Jay Krish) composed the music, with songs released under the Saregama label.
What production houses are behind the film?
S Originals and Movie Verse Studios are the production banners, with producers including Srujan Yarabolu, Aditya Pittie, and Vivek Krishnani.
Conclusion
Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi represents an important trend in Telugu cinema—content-driven films that tackle serious themes through accessible, entertaining storytelling. By adapting the successful Malayalam hit Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey into a distinctly Godavari Telugu setting, the makers aim to deliver both entertainment and social relevance.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Verified Information |
|---|---|
| Theatrical Release | January 30, 2026 |
| Lead Cast | Tharun Bhascker, Eesha Rebba |
| Director | A.R. Sajeev |
| Genre | Comedy-Drama with social themes |
| OTT Status | Not announced |
| Expected OTT Window | Possibly March 2026 (unconfirmed) |
What to Watch For
Over the coming days, look for:
- Final date confirmation through official posters on verified social handles
- Advance booking signals from major theatre chains
- Trailer release as the date approaches
- OTT partner announcement (likely after theatrical performance becomes clear)
For now, the most important verified update is the one-week postponement to January 30, 2026. Treat any "confirmed OTT date" claims with skepticism until official announcements from producers or platforms emerge.
Whether you choose to catch it in theatres or wait for the digital premiere, Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi positions itself as a meaningful addition to Telugu cinema—a film that uses humor to start conversations about respect, dignity, and peace within the home.
Last Updated: January 21, 2026
Disclaimer: Release dates and platform details are subject to change based on producer decisions. Always verify through official OTT apps and producer social media handles for the most accurate information.