Indian actor Raghav Juyal has been cast in director Srikanth Odela’s upcoming film “The Paradise,” headlined by Nani.
The film is an examination of societal prejudice set against the backdrop of 1980s Secunderabad. It follows a marginalized tribe stripped of their rights who find hope in an unlikely leader who guides their fight for citizenship and recognition in a system designed to keep them oppressed.
Juyal is known for his performances in Toronto selection “Kill” and ZEE5 series “Gyaarah Gyaarah.”
“We initially imagined a lean guy with a thick mustache for this ruthless role. But after watching ‘Kill’ and witnessing Raghav’s menacing performance, we were convinced he was the perfect fit. He brought a raw intensity that completely won us over. We’re truly excited about what he brings to this character,” Odela said about casting Juyal.
“The Paradise” follows Odela’s massive success with “Dasara,” also starring Nani, earning him best director honors from Filmfare, SIIMA, and IIFA. The ambitious production is scheduled for theatrical release on March 26, 2026, with distribution planned across eight languages: Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali, English, and Spanish. The makers are reportedly in discussions with a Hollywood studio regarding a potential collaboration, with updates expected soon.
Nani is known internationally for S.S. Rajamouli’s Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival winner “Eega.” “This is India’s ‘Mad Max,’ and I believe this with utmost sincerity,” Nani has said of the project. “The tone and nature of ‘The Paradise’ will be wild, and that wildness will be accompanied by poetic justice.”
The makers announced Juyal’s addition to the cast with a behind-the-scenes video released on the actor’s birthday, featuring Odela’s character design process and how he crafted the actor’s look for the film.
