At 94, Telugu director Singeetham Srinivasa Rao surpasses Clint Eastwood’s record with his comeback film ‘Sing Geetham,’ a project he envisioned four decades ago.
Hyderabad, India – Legendary Telugu filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao has made history by releasing his latest film, Sing Geetham, on June 12, 2026. This milestone marks a significant achievement in the Indian film industry, as the 94-year-old director surpasses the record previously held by Hollywood icon Clint Eastwood. The film has been lauded for its emotional depth and innovative storytelling, positioning it as a noteworthy comeback for the veteran director.
Singeetham Srinivasa Rao is celebrated as one of the most creative minds in Indian cinema. His earlier works, including classics such as Pushpaka Vimana and Aditya 369, have set high standards for narrative and visual creativity. With Sing Geetham, Rao has not only re-entered the directing scene but has also created a film that reflects his enduring passion for storytelling.
A Remarkable Milestone
At 94, Rao has become one of the oldest filmmakers globally to direct a major feature film. This achievement has drawn comparisons with Eastwood, who directed Juror No. 2 at age 93 and was also 94 at its release. According to reports from The Times of India, Rao’s ability to create compelling cinema at such an advanced age underscores both his dedication and the evolving landscape of Indian cinema.
The film Sing Geetham not only marks Rao’s return to directing but also serves as a testament to a career that has spanned several decades and multiple linguistic film industries. The film’s production was spearheaded by Nag Ashwin, known for his work on Kalki 2898 AD, who played a crucial role in actualizing Rao’s long-held vision.
A Dream Realized After 40 Years
What sets Sing Geetham apart is the extensive journey leading to its creation. The film is based on an idea that Rao has nurtured for nearly 40 years. Producer-director Nag Ashwin noted that Rao had been trying to bring this project to fruition long before he made Pushpaka Vimana. Ashwin recalled hearing about the concept during the production of Mahanati and emphasized how well-known the project was within the industry due to Rao’s persistent efforts.
In Ashwin’s words, “This project has been a long-cherished dream of Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, and after completing my work on Kalki 2898 AD, I felt it was time to help realize his vision.” With a screenplay co-written by a team including Rao himself, the film has been crafted to resonate with contemporary audiences while retaining the essence of Rao’s original idea.
Plot Overview of Sing Geetham
Marketed as India’s first musical fantasy feature, Sing Geetham is set in the fictional village of Kuberapuram. The narrative follows villagers who wish to exploit local gold mines, but their plans are challenged by a young girl who fights to protect the village’s environment. The plot thickens when a supernatural curse imposed by the local deity requires the villagers to communicate solely through song, leading to an enchanting and emotional exploration of community and environmental themes.
The film features newcomers Ayaan, Ahilya Bamroo, and Shalini Kondepudi in pivotal roles, with music composed by Devi Sri Prasad, marking his first collaboration with Rao. The film’s unique premise and musical elements have garnered significant attention and anticipation ahead of its release.
Industry Reception and Celebrity Praise
Since its premiere, Sing Geetham has received acclaim from numerous prominent figures in the film industry. Notable actors such as Kamal Haasan and Chiranjeevi have publicly praised Rao’s dedication to filmmaking and his remarkable ability to continue creating at the age of 94. Recently, actor Jr NTR expressed his admiration for the film on social media, describing it as a deeply moving experience and commending Rao for his energy and wisdom.
In his remarks, Jr NTR stated, “Nag Ashwin, fulfilling a legend’s 40-year dream is nothing short of a god’s boon. The tribute you and Vyjayanthi Films have given to Singeetham garu is remarkable.” He also highlighted the film’s unique promotional strategy, which included releasing the trailer after the film’s launch, calling it a delightful surprise.
As Sing Geetham continues to showcase in theaters, it stands as more than a mere comeback; it symbolizes the perseverance of a visionary filmmaker who has remained committed to his dreams, even after decades in the industry. Singeetham Srinivasa Rao’s story is one of resilience and inspiration, emphasizing that creativity knows no age limits.
