Victory Venkatesh’s Tulasi, directed by Boyapati Srinu, was released on October 12, 2007. The action drama completes 19 years today, bringing back memories of a film that combined family sentiment, romance, action and a powerful father-son bond. Starring Venkatesh and Nayanthara, the film remains a notable entry in the actor’s career, particularly for the emotional depth he brought to his character.
The story follows Parvataneni Tulasi Ram, played by Venkatesh, who falls in love with Vasundhara, portrayed by Nayanthara, during a trip to Europe. The two get married and begin their life together. However, their happiness takes a turn when Tulasi returns to his faction-ridden native region with his pregnant wife. When violence claims the life of Vasundhara’s brother, she struggles to accept Tulasi’s involvement in the bloody feuds and separates from him, taking their son Harsha with her.
Years later, Tulasi learns that Harsha has a serious medical condition that requires surgery. As he tries to save his son, circumstances force him to confront his violent past once again. The situation becomes even more dangerous when a gangster seeks revenge against Tulasi and targets the child. The story then builds towards a fight in which a father’s love becomes stronger than every obstacle standing in his way.
Venkatesh is one of the film’s biggest strengths. He moves convincingly between Tulasi’s playful, affectionate nature and the fierce man who emerges when his family is threatened. His emotional scenes, especially those involving his son, add weight to the action-driven narrative. The transformation feels central to the character, showing both his vulnerability as a father and his determination when pushed to the edge.
Child actor Master Atulith, who plays Harsha, adds warmth to the film. His innocent interactions with Tulasi bring lighter moments into the family drama, while the child’s medical condition raises the emotional stakes. Harsha’s bond with his father also becomes an important part of the story, making the later conflict more personal. His presence gives the film some of its most touching moments.
Nayanthara complements Venkatesh as Vasundhara, a woman caught between her love for her husband and her fear of the violence surrounding him. With Devi Sri Prasad’s music and Boyapati Srinu’s mix of sentiment and action, Tulasi balances mass appeal with a family-centred emotional story.
Nineteen years later, the film is remembered for Venkatesh’s performance, the child sentiment and the central idea that a father will go to any length to protect his child.