Tharun Bhascker Opens Up About Sai Sushanth Reddy's Departure from ENE Repeat
In the world of Telugu cinema, few films have captured the hearts of audiences like Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi. Released in 2018, this coming-of-age comedy directed by Tharun Bhascker became a cult classic, celebrated for its authentic portrayal of youthful friendships and its lighthearted charm. When a sequel, ENE Repeat, was announced in June 2025, fans were thrilled, but the excitement was tempered by news that one of the original four leads, Sai Sushanth Reddy, had quietly stepped away from the project.
The Human Story Behind the Exit
At a recent student-led event called Honest Townhall, Tharun Bhascker shared the heartfelt reason behind Reddy's departure. Contrary to speculation about creative differences or conflicts, the director revealed it was a personal decision rooted in life choices. Sai Sushanth Reddy chose to leave acting to fully dedicate himself to his father's business, a move that Tharun initially found difficult to accept.
Tharun recounted the emotional phone call, saying, "When Sushi (Sushanth) called, and he said this, I just broke. First, I got angry. The reason is that he moved on towards his father's business. He told me he doesn't want one foot here and one there. And I respect that. But it came with a lot of anger and disappointment." Over time, however, the director came to understand and respect Reddy's journey, acknowledging that each person must follow their own path.
Moving Forward with a New Face
Despite the initial setback, Tharun Bhascker was determined not to let the project derail. He made it clear early on that ENE Repeat would proceed, with or without one of its original pillars. Stepping into Sai Sushanth Reddy's shoes is Srikanth Maganti, an actor known for his roles in films like HIT and Animal. This casting change is bold, as fans of the original are likely to scrutinize how well the new actor fits into the beloved ensemble.
Tharun, however, remains unfazed by comparisons. For him, the focus is not on replicating what Reddy brought to the screen but on preserving the essence of the character he played, Karthik. "I had a story to tell, and I am not going to stop. For me, Sushi might change, but Karthik is the same. And, when I'm watching the footage right now, I see Karthik. And that's the magic of cinema," he explained confidently.
Preserving the Spirit of the Original
The success of Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi largely hinged on its ensemble cast, whose chemistry felt natural and effortless. Replacing one member is undoubtedly a gamble, but Tharun Bhascker's commitment to honesty and heart gives hope that the sequel will retain its core appeal. He assured fans, "If I'm telling you that you'll only see Karthik, I think I'll succeed in doing that. I won't let you guys down."
As production continues, the question remains whether audiences will embrace this new iteration. Yet, with Tharun's vision and Srikanth Maganti's talent, ENE Repeat aims to keep the spirit of its predecessor alive, proving that while faces may change, the stories that resonate with us can endure.
