They Call Him OG, starring Pawan Kalyan, is shaping up to be one of the biggest Telugu cinema releases ever. Beyond being a film, it’s a cultural and political spectacle. Below is a detailed FAQ covering everything — from cast and story to budget, shooting locations, and OTT details.

1. What is They Call Him OG about?

It is a high-octane gangster action drama. Pawan Kalyan plays Ojas “OG” Gambheera, a powerful gangster who resurfaces in Mumbai after a decade to reclaim his empire from rival forces.

2. When is They Call Him OG releasing?

The global theatrical release is set for September 25, 2025. Special premieres and benefit shows will begin a day earlier in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

3. Who is the lead actor in They Call Him OG?

Pawan Kalyan, the “Power Star” of Telugu cinema and Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, plays the titular role of OG Gambheera.

4. Who is directing the film?

The movie is directed by Sujeeth, best known for Saaho. OG is considered his redemption project, expected to balance slick visuals with strong storytelling.

5. Who are the main cast members of They Call Him OG?

  • Pawan Kalyan as Ojas Gambheera (OG)

  • Emraan Hashmi as Omi Bhau (main antagonist)

  • Priyanka Arul Mohan as the female lead

  • Prakash Raj as Satya Dada

  • Arjun Das in a pivotal role

  • Sriya Reddy in a strong supporting character

6. Where was They Call Him OG shot?

The movie was shot extensively in Mumbai, with major action sequences filmed in real underworld-inspired backdrops. Additional schedules were completed in Hyderabad and Pune, while certain high-stakes sequences were shot abroad to enhance the film’s global gangster aesthetic.

7. What is the budget of They Call Him OG?

The film is mounted on a massive ₹250 crore budget, making it one of the most expensive Telugu films ever.

Also read They Call Him OG: Cinema, Politics, and the Anatomy of Hype.

8. Who is producing the film?

The movie is produced by DVV Danayya under DVV Entertainment, the same banner that backed RRR.

9. What is special about the music in OG?

The music is composed by Thaman S. His powerful background scores have already defined the tone of the teasers. Songs like Firestorm and Suvvi Suvvi are popular ahead of release, fueling hype further.

10. How is politics connected to OG?

Since Pawan Kalyan is currently the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, the film’s release coincides with his political prominence. His character’s comeback story mirrors his real-life political resurgence, blurring the line between reel and real. Fans chanting “OG! OG!” at political rallies show this fusion clearly.

11. What is the runtime of They Call Him OG?

The film has a final runtime of 174 minutes (2 hours 54 minutes) and is certified U/A by the CBFC.

12. What are the shooting challenges faced?

Filming began in April 2023 but was repeatedly delayed due to Kalyan’s political commitments during the 2024 Andhra Pradesh elections. His portions were wrapped in June 2025, after more than two years. These delays, however, only added to the film’s mythos.

13. How strong is the pre-release buzz?

  • In North America, pre-sales have already crossed $1.8 million, breaking Telugu cinema records.

  • In Australia, IMAX shows sold out within minutes.

  • In India, government-approved ticket hikes and special shows priced at ₹800–₹1000 are driving massive advance bookings.

14. When will They Call Him OG release on OTT?

The official OTT partner has not been announced yet. Based on industry trends, the film may premiere on OTT 6–8 weeks after theatrical release, though the scale of OG might push for a longer exclusive run in cinemas.

15. Why is OG considered such a high-stakes project?

With ₹250 crore invested, high ticket pricing, and unprecedented pre-sales, OG is a high-risk, high-reward gamble. Its success will depend on strong word-of-mouth sustaining beyond the opening weekend.

16. How is the antagonist Omi Bhau being received?

Played by Emraan Hashmi, Omi Bhau is being positioned as one of the most ruthless villains in recent Telugu cinema. His introduction uses his iconic Bollywood track Jhalak Dikhlaja, which has gone viral across social media, bridging Hindi and Telugu audiences.

Final Word

They Call Him OG is not just another film — it is a convergence of cinema, politics, and mass marketing. With a record-breaking opening nearly guaranteed, its long-term legacy will hinge on whether Sujeeth delivers a narrative as sharp as its visuals.