Ramya Krishnan Roars Into David Reddy With a Fierce New Avatar

Actress Ramya Krishnan celebrated her 56th birthday on Tuesday with the unveiling of her first look from the upcoming period action drama David Reddy, in which she plays the powerful character Kamala Reddy.

The makers released a special birthday poster featuring Ramya in a striking and fierce avatar. Seated on a throne and holding a sword after apparently defeating her enemies, the veteran actress commands the frame with an intense expression.

Sharing the poster on social media, co-star Manchu Manoj praised Ramya’s screen presence and wrote that “one look” was enough for her to own the entire frame. He also hinted at her action portions in the film, asking audiences to wait until they see her “in action”.

Directed by debutant Hanuma Reddy Yakkanti, David Reddy is a pre-Independence period action drama set against the backdrop of British rule. Earlier reports have placed the story between 1897 and 1922, with the narrative revolving around a fearless rebel who rises against the British Empire.

Manchu Manoj plays the titular David Reddy, a rebellious figure who chooses a violent path to fight British oppression. The film’s teaser, released earlier this year, showed British officials discussing the threat posed by David and referred to him as “Rakshas Reddy”, while also featuring references to prominent figures from India’s freedom struggle.

The film has a sizeable ensemble cast, including Maria Ryaboshapka, who plays Clara Whitmore, along with Samuthirakani, Abhay Deol and Kanchana in important roles. It is being made as a pan-India film in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada.

Produced by Nallagangula Venkat Reddy and Bharat Motukuri under Velvet Soul Motion Pictures and True Radix, the film has music by Ravi Basrur. The makers have announced a Dussehra 2026 theatrical release.

For Ramya Krishnan, the new look adds another commanding character to a career spanning several decades, following memorable performances such as Sivagami in the Baahubali franchise. Her portrayal of Kamala Reddy is now among the elements generating curiosity around David Reddy.