Chandra Sekhar Yeleti

Biography

Chandra Sekhar Yeleti is a critically acclaimed Indian film director and screenwriter, predominantly known for his work in Telugu cinema. Born in Andhra Pradesh, India, Yeleti grew up with a deep passion for storytelling and cinema. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in films that diverged from conventional narratives, and this inclination shaped his distinctive directorial style.

A student of electronics in his academic years, Yeleti transitioned to the world of films through his strong background in visual storytelling. He began his career by working behind the scenes in television and assisting established directors, eventually paving the way for his entry into feature films.

Career

Chandra Sekhar Yeleti made a remarkable debut as a filmmaker with the 2003 movie "Aithe", a low-budget thriller that won critical acclaim and became a sleeper hit. The film revolved around a group of youngsters who got caught in a complex web involving a terrorist hijacking. The minimalist style, fresh faces, and grounded storytelling of Aithe won over both audiences and critics, earning it multiple awards and establishing Yeleti as a director with a unique voice.

Following this success, he directed "Anukokunda Oka Roju" (2005), a gripping mystery thriller. The film centered on a young woman who loses a day from her memory, unraveling a tense, suspense-filled narrative. This movie further cemented Yeleti’s reputation for crafting intelligent and unconventional stories.

In 2009, he directed "Prayanam", a light-hearted romantic drama set almost entirely in an airport. It showcased his versatility, proving that he could handle genres beyond thrillers. Though minimalist in approach, Prayanam found its audience, especially among the younger generation.

Yeleti continued his journey with "Sahasam" (2013), an action-adventure film that was a notable departure from his earlier films. With this project, he embraced a broader commercial canvas, involving treasure hunts and historical elements, while retaining his trademark narrative depth. The film was well-received and demonstrated Yeleti’s ability to balance mainstream appeal with cerebral storytelling.

His next project, "Manamantha" (2016), was a bilingual film that interwove the stories of four different individuals across age groups and walks of life. The ensemble narrative and emotional core of the film received appreciation for its sincere portrayal of human aspirations and struggles.

In 2021, Chandra Sekhar Yeleti directed "Check", a prison drama starring Nithiin, which blended themes of redemption, strategy, and injustice. Though responses were mixed, the film stood out for its attempt to explore a unique concept involving a convict and his journey through the game of chess as a means of reclaiming his dignity.