The festive season of Makar Sankranti and Pongal is synonymous with grand cinematic celebrations across South India. As 2026 approaches, the excitement is palpable, with a stellar lineup of major films poised to hit the silver screen. This Pongal promises an unparalleled movie spree, featuring everything from a superstar's political farewell to genre-bending entertainers, ensuring theatres are packed with eager audiences.
Vijay's Final Bow: The Craze for Jana Nayagan
All eyes are on Thalapathy Vijay's highly anticipated film, 'Jana Nayagan', which is set to be his final theatrical release before he transitions to a full-time political career. Directed by H Vinoth, the film boasts a powerful ensemble cast including Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, Mamitha Baiju, and veterans like Prakash Raj and Priyamani. The release is tentatively scheduled for January 9, 2026, pending a final court verdict. The significance of this being Vijay's last film has created an intense wave of excitement, with advance ticket bookings already showing massive promise and reflecting the star's immense fan following.
A Star-Studded Festival Lineup
Joining the Pongal race is Prabhas in the much-awaited 'The Raja Saab'. Directed by Maruthi, this film is also slated for a January 9 release. It promises a unique blend of horror, fantasy, and comedy, aiming to be the perfect festival entertainer. The film features an impressive supporting cast with Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Nidhhi Agerwal, and Malavika Mohanan.
Adding to the festive cheer is the powerhouse combination of Megastar Chiranjeevi and Lady Superstar Nayanthara in 'Manashankara Varaprasad Garu'. Directed by hitmaker Anil Ravipudi, this family entertainer is scheduled for release on January 12, directly in time for the festival weekend, and is expected to draw huge family audiences to cinemas.
Comedy and Drama to Round Out the Season
For fans of high-energy comedy, Ravi Teja's 'Bhartha Mahasayulu Vignapthi' is set to arrive on January 13. Directed by Kishore Tirumala, the film is described as a comedy-drama that will showcase Ravi Teja's signature humour alongside emotional storytelling. The film features Ashika Ranganath and Dimple Hayathi in leading roles, with a strong supporting cast including Sunil and Vennala Kishore.
This Pongal 2026, the Southern film industry is offering a diverse platter of cinematic experiences. Whether it's the historic farewell of a superstar, a genre-mixing spectacle, a wholesome family drama, or a laugh riot, there is something for every moviegoer. The festival season is truly set to be a box office battleground and a celebration for cinema lovers, who might just find themselves booking tickets for not one, but all of these major releases.
