Actress Mrunal Thakur starred in the 2022 Telugu-language romantic period drama Sita Ramam, and with her performance, made millions across the country feel the bittersweet beauty of love, longing, and emotional resilience. As the film completes three years since its theatrical release on August 5, 2022, audiences are once again reminiscing about the magic it created—both on-screen and in their hearts.
Directed by Hanu Raghavapudi, Sita Ramam is a poignant love story set against the backdrop of war and letters, weaving together themes of duty, separation, identity, and eternal love. At the center of it all stands Sita Mahalakshmi, portrayed with astounding grace by Mrunal Thakur. In what is considered one of her career-defining roles, Mrunal effortlessly balances subtle vulnerability with inner strength—embodying the kind of romantic heroine rarely seen in modern Indian cinema.
Her performance was widely praised for its emotional depth and layered nuances, as she portrayed a woman torn between love and responsibility and a character who evolves with quiet power. Mrunal’s portrayal of Sita brought out a rare softness and strength, making her stand out as a symbol of dignity, grace, and resilience. The character became instantly iconic, especially among audiences who appreciated strong female roles in period dramas.
Adding to the film’s charm was her mesmerizing on-screen chemistry with Dulquer Salmaan, who played Lieutenant Ram. The duo’s tender moments, silent glances, and emotionally charged exchanges captivated the audience—making Sita and Ram one of the most beloved on-screen couples in recent times. Their love story, told through handwritten letters, transported viewers to a bygone era and rekindled the beauty of timeless romance.
The film was also elevated by Vishal Chandrashekhar’s soulful musical score, with tracks like Inthandham and Oh Sita Hey Rama becoming instant chartbusters. Each song seamlessly blended into the narrative, enhancing the emotional beats of the film.
Upon release, Sita Ramam received critical acclaim and audience adoration, eventually emerging as a massive commercial success, collecting around ₹100 crore at the box office. It resonated not just with Telugu-speaking audiences but also in Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi dubbed versions, helping it become a pan-India success story.
The film bagged several accolades, including
- SIIMA Award for Best Actress – Telugu (Mrunal Thakur, nominated)
- Best Music Direction (Vishal Chandrashekhar)
- Critics’ Choice Awards for Best Film and Screenplay
- And multiple audience-voted recognitions across platforms for Best Jodi and Best Romantic Film of the Year.
Three years later, Sita Ramam continues to be celebrated—not just as a film, but as a cinematic experience that lingers in the minds of viewers. Its dialogues, music, visuals, and most importantly, its emotional core have ensured its cult classic status. From viral reels featuring iconic scenes to emotional fan edits and re-releases in select theaters, the film continues to breathe and grow in relevance—a testament to its timelessness.
As fans celebrate this beautiful milestone, Mrunal Thakur’s performance remains one of the key highlights—a performance that didn’t just win hearts but also cemented her place in the hearts of South Indian cinema lovers.
Sita Ramam isn’t just a film. It’s a feeling—one that continues to echo through the years and will likely do so for many more to come.