Ninnila Ninnila is a 2021 Indian Telugu-language romantic comedy film directed by Ani I.V. Sasi . Released on February 26, 2021, primarily through the streaming platform ZEE5 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it also had a limited theatrical release in select regions under the title Theeni in Tamil . Production and Cast
The film marked the Telugu debut for actor Ashok Selvan, who played Dev, an overweight chef suffering from muscle spasms and insomnia . The lead cast also included Nithya Menen and Ritu Varma, who played Maya and Tara respectively . Director: Ani I.V. Sasi, making his directorial debut .
Producers: B. V. S. N. Prasad and Bapineedu B under the Sri Venkateswara Cine Chitra banner . Music: Composed by Rajesh Murugesan . Cinematography: Handled by Divakar Mani . Editing: Done by Navin Nooli . Plot Overview
Set in London, the story follows Dev (Ashok Selvan), a brilliant but socially awkward chef who works at a high-end restaurant . He meets Tara (Ritu Varma), a perfectionist colleague, and Maya (Nithya Menen), a free-spirited woman with a child-like innocence who enters his life unexpectedly . The narrative explores the triangular relationship between these characters through a blend of magical realism and heartwarming drama . Reception
The film received generally positive reviews for its breezy storytelling, technical finesse (especially the cinematography and food styling), and the performances of its lead trio . It was praised for its "feel-good" vibe and for avoiding typical commercial cinema tropes .
Here are the lyrics for the song "Ninnila Ninnila" from the 2021 Telugu movie Tuck Jagadish.
Song Details:
Ninnila Ninnila Navvula Nuvvila Lenedi Lenedi Nee Roopame..
Ninnila Ninnila Navvula Nuvvila Lenedi Lenedi Nee Roopame..
Nuvve Naa Praanam.. Nuvve Naa Gnanam.. Nuvve Naa Praanam.. Nuvve Naa Gnanam.. Nuvve Mari Antaa.. Neeve Mari Anthaa.. Edo Ashalo Undhi Naa Manase..
Nee Kannule Naati Sandhyaalu Nee Vegam Lene Naati Payanaalu Nee Chilakala Raa Painaali Nee Godavalalo Padipoyaalo..
Kallaullo Merisina Koyalallo Chirunama Nuvve Kadaa Naa Prapancham..
Ninnila Ninnila Navvula Nuvvila Lenedi Lenedi Nee Roopame..
(Musical Interlude)
Nee Paata Lene Naa Prathibimbaalu Nee Maata Lene Naa Prathisphutaalu Nee Sannuta Lene Naa Panipataalu Nee Vagdanam Lene Naa Paripoornaata..
Edo Ashalo Undhi Naa Manase Nee Chinnavaipu Thana Theerunaa..
Kallaullo Merisina Koyalallo Chirunama Nuvve Kadaa Naa Prapancham..
Ninnila Ninnila Navvula Nuvvila Lenedi Lenedi Nee Roopame..
Nuvve Naa Praanam.. Nuvve Naa Gnanam.. Nuvve Naa Praanam.. Nuvve Naa Gnanam..
Ninnila Ninnila is a 2021 Telugu-language romantic comedy. Set largely in London, it is often described as a "feel-good" movie centered around food, love, and healing. Core Details Release Date: February 26, 2021. Director: Ani I.V. Sasi (in his directorial debut). Genre: Romantic Comedy / Drama.
Where to Watch: Available for streaming on ZEE5 and Apple TV. Plot Summary
The story follows Dev (Ashok Selvan), an overweight, genius chef who suffers from muscle spasms. He moves to London to work at a prestigious 5-star restaurant run by a moody, world-renowned head chef (Nassar). Dev's life becomes complicated—and heartwarming—as he interacts with two different women: Tara (Ritu Varma), a disciplined fellow chef at the restaurant, and Maya (Nithya Menen), a mysterious and playful woman from his past. Main Cast & Characters Ashok Selvan Dev (The Chef) Nithya Menen Ritu Varma Nassar Satya Ninnila Ninnila (2021) - IMDb
I should check if the genre is romantic comedy or drama. Maybe a mix of both? The plot probably revolves around two people falling in love despite differences. The user wants a write-up, so maybe they're looking for a critical analysis rather than just a synopsis. Let me break down the components I should cover: director, actors, plot, themes, performances, direction, music, and overall impact. Ninnila Ninnila -2021-
I need to make sure the plot summary isn't too spoilery but gives a clear idea of the story. Themes could include love transcending boundaries, the challenges of long-distance relationships, or societal expectations. The performances: Sai Dharam Tej usually plays the charming hero, and Vaani Kapoor as his love interest. Are there any standout characters or supporting roles that add depth?
Direction by N. K. Chandrabose – what's their style? Maybe they focus on emotional storytelling with some light humor. The music could be an important aspect, as it often is in Telugu movies. Are there any notable songs that are integral to the film's success?
I should also consider the film's reception. Did it perform well at the box office? What did critics and audiences say? Maybe mention if it was a remake. I think it was a remake of a Malayalam film, which is common in Indian cinema. That could provide a point of comparison.
Potential pitfalls: making sure the information is accurate, avoiding spoilers too heavily, balancing between plot summary and analysis. Also, checking if "You in You" is the correct translation of the title. Maybe confirm that or find the actual English title if it's different.
I need to structure the write-up logically, starting with an introduction that mentions the director, main cast, and genre. Then move into the plot, followed by an analysis of the themes and performances, direction, music, and finally a conclusion with my verdict and recommendations.
Let me verify some facts to ensure accuracy. Yes, "Ninnila Ninnila" (2021) is directed by N. K. Chandrabose, stars Sai Dharam Tej and Vaani Kapoor, and is a romantic comedy. It's a remake of the Malayalam film "Anjali." The plot involves the protagonists facing obstacles due to misunderstandings and societal pressures.
In the analysis, I can highlight how the film handles love stories typically – perhaps with a mix of humor and drama. The performances might be praised for chemistry and relatability. The direction could be criticized for being formulaic, common in remakes, but maybe some scenes are effective. Music and cinematography – are there any particular highlights?
Audience reception: generally positive for the romantic aspects and performances but maybe underwhelming in some areas. It's important to present both strengths and weaknesses honestly. Also, compare it to the original Malayalam film to contextualize its impact.
I should avoid overly technical terms and keep the tone accessible. Maybe mention if it's a must-watch for fans of romantic comedies or if it has elements that appeal beyond the genre. Also, note any controversies or unique elements, if applicable, but I don't recall any for this film.
Write-Up for "Ninnila Ninnila" (2021)
Director: N. K. Chandrabose
Cast: Sai Dharam Tej, Vaani Kapoor, Ravi Basrur
Genre: Romantic Drama
Runtime: 2 hours 28 minutes
Language: Telugu (subtitled in other Indian languages)
Plot Summary
Ninnila Ninnila (2021) is a romantic drama that explores unrequited love and the emotional complexity of finding love in unexpected places. The story follows Deva (Sai Dharam Tej), a charming, carefree man whose life intertwines with Anjali (Vaani Kapoor), a devoted social worker with a guarded heart. Their paths cross after a life-altering incident—a fire accident—leaves Anjali scarred and emotionally withdrawn. As Deva, now her neighbor, seeks to win her trust, Anjali wrestles with her fears of vulnerability. The narrative unfolds through their growing bond, highlighting themes of healing, second chances, and the transformative power of love.
The film balances heartfelt drama with lighthearted moments, weaving in themes of societal judgment, self-discovery, and the courage to confront past trauma. While the plot is familiar to romantic cinema, its emotional beats are crafted with sincerity, aiming to resonate with audiences navigating similar struggles.
Themes & Strengths
Direction & Pacing
Director N. K. Chandrabose, known for his work in Telugu cinema, adopts a warm, visual aesthetic with soft lighting and emotional close-ups. However, the narrative leans heavily on clichéd tropes common in Indian rom-coms—misunderstandings, exaggerated conflicts, and convenient plot devices. While some scenes (e.g., Deva’s gradual emotional support for Anjali) are touching, others feel rushed or overly sentimental. The pacing, though generally brisk, lulls in the second act, where character motivations are underexplored.
Performances
Music & Cinematography
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Anirudh Ravichander, features a few memorable romantic tracks ("Dhee Dhee Dhee") and breezy melodies that complement the film’s romantic tone. Cinematographer K. K. Senthil Kumar uses natural backdrops and soft lighting to create intimacy, though the visuals occasionally feel generic in their composition.
Reception & Legacy
As a remake of the successful Malayalam film Anjali (2018), Ninnila Ninnila maintains a similar core but adapts it cautiously for a Telugu audience. While fans of the original praised its emotional resonance and performances, critics noted its predictable plot and lack of originality. The film underperformed at the box office compared to its source material but remains a feel-good choice for romantic enthusiasts.
Verdict
Ninnila Ninnila is a well-meaning but formulaic romantic drama that leans on tropes but earns points for its heartfelt performances and visual charm. While not groundbreaking, it’s a comforting watch for audiences seeking a love story steeped in authenticity and emotional closure.
Recommendation: A must-watch for fans of Sai Dharam Tej and Vaani Kapoor, or anyone who enjoys lighthearted, character-driven romances with emotional stakes. Pair it with tea (or filter coffee!) and enjoy the journey.
“Ninnila Ninnila” translates to “That’s you in me” in Telugu.
Here’s a short piece inspired by the 2021 Telugu romantic drama Ninnila Ninnila, capturing its themes of love, second chances, and the magic of food. Ninnila Ninnila is a 2021 Indian Telugu-language romantic
Title: The Recipe of Us
The rain tapped gently against the glass doors of the cloud kitchen. Inside, the scent of fresh ginger and crushed cardamom swirled in the steam rising from a small copper pot.
Dev stood by the counter, staring at a handwritten note smudged with turmeric. "Add a pinch of patience. Stir slowly. Taste with your eyes closed."
He had opened the café to forget her. But every dish on the menu—the soft idlis that melted like a morning promise, the filter coffee that brewed a bittersweet ache—was a memory of Tara. She was the whirlwind who had limped into his orderly life and taught him that perfect recipes don't need perfect people.
She had left without a goodbye, only this note and a half-empty jar of star anise.
Tonight, he was making her favorite dessert: Payasam, the one she called “happiness in a bowl.” As the milk thickened, he recalled her laughter—how she’d dip her finger into the simmering pot, burn her tongue, and still grin. “Love is like this, Dev,” she’d said. “Hot, messy, worth the burn.”
A bell chimed.
He looked up. There she was, standing at the door, drenched, a small suitcase by her side, and that familiar lopsided smile on her face.
“You forgot the final ingredient,” she said softly.
He frowned. “What?”
“Me.”
The payasam bubbled over, and for the first time in months, the kitchen felt warm again. Not from the stove—but from the quiet truth that some recipes are never finished. They just wait for the right person to come back and taste.
Ninnila Ninnila—as delicate as a dream, as stubborn as love.
🎬 Movie Spotlight: Ninnila Ninnila (2021)
⭐ Rating: 4/5 – A Delicious Blend of Romance, Humor, and Emotion
If you are looking for a feel-good movie that breaks the typical Tollywood masala mold, Ninnila Ninnila is the perfect watch. Released in 2021, this film is a breath of fresh air—serving up a story that is as heartwarming as it is unique.
📽️ The Plot: The story revolves around Dev (Ashok Selvan), an obese chef who struggles with his confidence due to his weight and a strange "timid" reflex. He lands a job at an upscale restaurant in London, run by the moody and superstitious Chef Nagaraj (Nasser). There, Dev meets Tara (Ritu Varma), a brilliant chef who is counting down the days until she can leave her job and settle down. What follows is a beautiful narrative about cooking, insecurities, and finding love in the most unexpected places.
✨ What Works:
🎬 Final Verdict: Ninnila Ninnila is a "comfort movie." It doesn't have high-octane action or exaggerated drama. Instead, it offers a plate full of love, laughter, and life lessons. It is a subtle, sweet, and satisfying experience.
Highly recommended for a cozy weekend watch! 🍿
#NinnilaNinnila #AshokSelvan #RituVarma #Nasser #Tollywood #TeluguCinema #MovieReview #FeelGoodMovies #RomCom
Released in February 2021, Ninnila Ninnila in Tamil) is a heartwarming Telugu romantic comedy directed by Ani I.V. Sasi Movie: Tuck Jagadish (2021) Singers: Armaan Malik, Thaman
in his directorial debut. Billed as "love on a platter," the film is
a slice-of-life story centered on the themes of food, love, and emotional healing Core Premise & Plot The film follows
(Ashok Selvan), an overweight, insomniac genius chef with muscle spasms, who works at an upscale restaurant in London. His life takes a turn when he encounters two women who change his perspective on food and life: The News Minute
(Ritu Varma), a fellow perfectionist chef at the same restaurant.
(Nithya Menen), a mysterious and playful woman whose presence brings a magical, soulful quality to the narrative. Cast and Crew Lead Actors:
Ashok Selvan (making his Telugu debut), Nithya Menen, and Ritu Varma. Supporting Cast: Includes seasoned actor Nassar as the head chef. Ani I.V. Sasi. Composed by Rajesh Murugesan
fame), featuring soulful tracks like "Pravahinche" and "Naa Kosam". Cinematography:
Divakar Mani, praised for the film's "beautifully shot" and "pleasant" visual aesthetic. Reception and Style Critical Acclaim:
Reviewers described it as a "beautifully written and acted" film that offers a "heartwarming" and "soulful" experience. Visual Style:
The movie is noted for its high-quality production design and cinematography that makes the cooking sequences and London settings look exceptionally appealing. Comparisons: While some viewers initially drew comparisons to Pixar's Ratatouille
due to its focus on a "weird chef," many audiences found its emotional core to be original and distinct. How to Watch
The film bypassed a traditional theatrical release in many regions and was premiered directly on
as a pay-per-view (ZeePlex) title before moving to the standard subscription. Roopesh Omana - News - IMDb
Released on February 26, 2021, Ninnila Ninnila is a Telugu-language romantic comedy that explores the intersections of culinary art, grief, and healing. Directed by debutant Ani I. V. Sasi, the film opted for a digital premiere on ZEE5 and Zee Plex due to the pandemic, while simultaneously releasing in Tamil as Theeni. Plot Summary: A Recipe for Healing
The story follows Dev (Ashok Selvan), an insomniac, overweight genius chef who suffers from involuntary muscle spasms. Dev moves to London to work at "Amara," a high-end restaurant run by a legendary, moody Michelin-star head chef (played by Nassar), who has not cooked for 15 years.
At the restaurant, Dev meets Tara (Ritu Varma), a disciplined chef with severe OCD who follows recipes to the letter—the polar opposite of Dev’s intuitive, messy cooking style. Their icy dynamic begins to thaw after they are accidentally locked in the restaurant's cold storage.
As they bond, Dev reveals the source of his eccentricities: the "ghost" of his childhood friend, Maya (Nithya Menen), who died years prior but remains a constant, visible presence in his life. The narrative eventually intertwines Tara’s search for her estranged father with Dev’s need to find closure, using food as the ultimate catalyst for reconciliation. Cast and Performances
Ashok Selvan (Dev): Marking his Telugu debut, Selvan was praised for his "endearing" and "extraordinary" portrayal of the clumsy yet gifted chef.
Ritu Varma (Tara): Reviewers noted her strong performance as the "tough girl" who is internally yearning for connection, maintaining a karmic link to food-themed roles following Pelli Choopulu.
Nithya Menen (Maya): Her role as the "impish and childlike" spirit divided some critics, but many found her performance essential to the film's "soulful" charm.
Nassar: As the stern head chef, Nassar provided a "flawless" and grounded performance that added weight to the emotional climax. Visuals and Technical Merit
The film is frequently described as "food porn" due to its lush, high-definition captures of culinary delicacies, from London's Michelin-star dishes to the Irani chai and vadas of Hyderabad's Old City.
In a cinematic era dominated by pan-Indian action epics and mass masala entertainers, Ninnila Ninnila is a rebellion of whispers. It proves that Telugu cinema can produce intelligent, urban romance without compromising on emotional depth. It gave a platform to directors like Ani. I. V. Sasi, who showed that a debutant can handle heavy themes like disability, mortality, and ambition with grace.
Furthermore, the film marked an important shift in how OTT platforms were viewed in Tollywood. At the time, releasing a film starring Ashok Selvan (lesser-known in Telugu) and Ritu Varma directly on streaming was a risk. The success of Ninnila Ninnila encouraged other filmmakers to bypass traditional theatrical pressures and experiment with new-age content.