Thandel has been released, claiming to be based on real events. It depicts the ordeal of 22 fishermen from Srikakulam who were trapped in Pakistan and imprisoned for two years.
At the time, the YSRCP government, led by Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, made extensive efforts to secure their release. Jagan personally oversaw the process, ensuring all fishermen returned safely.
Upon their return, they visited Tadepalli to thank him. The government also provided Rs 5 lakh in financial aid to each family and initiated the construction of a fishing harbor in the district to support them.
However, Srikakulam Mechanized Boats Association President Janakiram criticized the film, stating that it distorted facts. He claimed that while fishermen leaders worked tirelessly for their release, the movie failed to acknowledge their efforts.
He also pointed out that ex CM Jagan’s role was ignored, despite his pivotal involvement.
He argued that Thandel prioritized commercial appeal over truth, questioning why the film omitted the former CM’s contributions if it aimed to depict real events. He asserted that Jagan was the true Thandel.
But insiders in film industry opined that the makers might have feared consequences from the present government if they portrayed Jagan Mohan Reddy in a positive light.
