In a surprising yet inspiring career shift, Srikanth Kandragula, the talented producer best known for backing impactful Telugu projects like Tantiram and Soothravakyam and 7 more, has officially stepped back from production to focus entirely on acting and direction. In an announcement shared across social media platforms, particularly on Instagram and Twitter, Srikanth revealed that he has handed over the reins of his production house, CinemaBandi, to his mother, Lavanya Rani—marking a significant turning point in his professional journey.
From now on, the actor-director will be professionally known as Shree Tej SK, a rebranding that symbolizes not just a name change, but a fresh artistic identity. The decision to adopt a new screen name—verified through his updated profiles on IMDb and Instagram—reflects his evolving vision and ambition to carve a distinct path in the Telugu entertainment industry.
This transition comes at a time when Shree Tej SK is gaining widespread recognition for his natural and effortless performance in the recently released film Soothravakyam, which premiered on Amazon Prime Video OTT movie. His portrayal in the film has been lauded by audiences and critics alike, with many praising his subtle expressions, authentic delivery, and magnetic screen presence. What makes his performance even more remarkable is that it marks a departure from his earlier role as a producer, proving that his talents extend far beyond the business side of filmmaking.
In recent interviews promoting Soothravakyam, Shree Tej SK opened up about his long-standing admiration for acclaimed Malayalam filmmaker Basil Joseph—director/actor. He expressed his aspiration to bring a similar blend of realism, emotional depth, and storytelling finesse to Telugu cinema. “Basil Joseph has a unique way of connecting with audiences through grounded narratives and relatable characters in acting. That’s the kind of impact I want to create in our industry,” he said, highlighting his desire to elevate content-driven cinema in Telugu.
Known for backing compelling narratives, Shree Tej SK has quietly been building a strong portfolio in front of the camera. According to industry sources and his IMDb profile, he is currently involved in over four upcoming projects —primarily as an actor, with a few in development where he is also stepping into the director’s chair with a Horror Movie named “ Bhuvvama Kathalu”. While details about these projects are still under wraps, insiders suggest that they span genres from drama to dark comedy, showcasing his versatility and commitment to diverse storytelling.
Handing over production responsibilities to his mother, Lavanya Rani, is not just a strategic move but a deeply personal one. In a touching Instagram post, Shree Tej SK credited his mother as his “first audience, biggest supporter, and true producer at heart.” He shared that Lavanya Rani has been instrumental in managing the logistics and business side of CinemaBandi since its inception, often working behind the scenes without recognition. Now, with her officially at the helm, the production house is poised to support new voices in Telugu cinema, while Shree Tej SK dedicates himself fully to his craft.
The rebranding to Shree Tej SK is more than a stylistic choice—it’s a professional evolution. The new name carries a sense of artistic clarity and purpose. “Shree” signifies auspiciousness and creativity, while “Tej” stands for brilliance and energy—qualities that define his approach to performance and filmmaking. The “SK” initials serve as a nod to his roots, ensuring continuity with his legacy while embracing a new identity.
Audiences first got a glimpse of this transformation in Soothravakyam, where Shree Tej SK plays a layered character navigating personal and societal conflicts with quiet intensity. His performance, devoid of melodrama, has struck a chord with viewers, many of whom are calling it one of the most promising acting debuts in recent Malayalam cinema. Released on Amazon Prime OTT, the film has quickly gained a cult following, further cementing his status as a rising star in the digital space.
As Shree Tej SK steps into this next phase, the industry is watching closely. With a growing list of projects, a clear creative vision, and a dedication to meaningful cinema, he is positioning himself as a multi-hyphenate talent to reckon with. Whether behind the camera or in front of it, his journey reflects a deep respect for storytelling and a relentless pursuit of authenticity.
The message is clear: Srikanth Kandragula may have passed the production baton, but as **Shree Tej SK**, he’s just beginning to shine.
