Veteran actor Shivaji, renowned for choosing unconventional and layered roles, plays a pivotal character in the upcoming film Dhandoraa. Produced by Ravindra Banerjee Muppaneni under the Loukya Entertainments banner, known for hits like Colour Photo and Bedurulanka 2012, the MuraliKanth-directed film is slated for a grand release on December 25. The ensemble cast includes Navdeep, Nandu, Ravi Krishna, Manika Chikkala, Mounika Reddy, Bindu Madhavi, Radhya, and Aditi Bhavaraju.

Shivaji revealed that he heard the story of Dhandoraa even before the release of Court, and was immediately drawn to his role—a morally ambiguous farmer whose actions leave the audience to judge his intentions. “Every character carries weight, but the narrative circles back to mine,” he said, emphasizing the rarity of such layered roles.

He clarified that while the film carries strong emotional and realistic elements, it is not purely message-driven. “It’s a well-balanced commercial entertainer. The screenplay flows naturally, and the emotional layers never feel preachy,” he explained. Comparisons to films like Vedam and C/o Kancharapalem arise due to sensitive character portrayals, and Shivaji praised the dignified treatment of Bindu Madhavi’s role, noting that audiences will deeply connect with her character.

Shivaji also highlighted his growing collaboration with new directors and his versatility across genres, from comedy to intense dramas. Looking ahead, he will appear in Sampradayini Suppini Suddapoosani and Epic, a father-son emotional drama directed by Aditya Hassan, continuing his streak of content-driven, impactful performances.