Meenakshi Chaudhary has been unveiled as the female lead in Naga Chaitanya’s highly anticipated mythological thriller NC24, playing Daksha—an archaeologist driven by curiosity and courage. Released on November 4, her first-look poster showcases the actress in complete field gear inside a rugged cave, meticulously examining ancient artifacts with spectacles, gloves, and magnifying glass in hand. The reveal came with an evocative tagline: “In the depths of mystery, she unearths the truth,” immediately establishing Daksha as a professional consumed by her mission in what promises to be Telugu cinema’s definitive archaeological adventure.
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A Character That Demands Attention
Naga Chaitanya himself couldn’t contain his enthusiasm when introducing Meenakshi Chaudhary’s character to audiences. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the actor wrote: “Its my pleasure introducing @Meenakshiioffl as #Daksha to you all from our #NC24. It’s been such a fun time working with her and character you all will fall in love with.“
| NC24 Production Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Lead Actor | Naga Chaitanya (24th film) |
| Female Lead | Meenakshi Chaudhary as Daksha |
| Director | Karthik Varma Dandu (Virupaksha fame) |
| Story by | Sukumar |
| Producers | BVSN Prasad, Sukumar |
| Production Banners | SVCC, Sukumar Writings |
| Music | Ajaneesh B. Loknath |
| Cinematography | Neil D Cunha |
| Editor | Navin Nooli (National Award winner) |
The praise from Meenakshi Chaudhary’s co-star speaks volumes about the character’s significance to NC24’s narrative. Daksha isn’t merely a supporting role or romantic interest—she’s integral to the film’s core adventure, positioned as an archaeologist whose expertise and determination drive crucial plot developments. This marks one of Meenakshi Chaudhary’s most powerful portrayals yet, showcasing her range beyond the commercial entertainers that established her career.
The first-look poster alone demonstrates the thought invested in Daksha’s characterization. Meenakshi Chaudhary appears completely immersed in her work, her focused gaze suggesting both intellectual intensity and physical courage. The cave setting, combined with mysterious artifacts, establishes the film’s archaeological adventure tone while positioning Daksha as someone equally comfortable navigating ancient ruins and deciphering historical mysteries.
Postponement Shows Production’s Heart
Originally scheduled for November 3, Meenakshi Chaudhary’s character reveal was postponed by one day following the tragic bus accident in Chevella, Rangareddy district. The NC24 team released a heartfelt statement: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident in Chevella. Our heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and prayers for a speedy recovery of those injured. In light of this unfortunate event, Team #NC24 has decided to postpone the reveal of Meenakshi Chaudhary’s character poster to tomorrow. May strength and peace be with everyone affected by this tragedy.”
This compassionate decision reflected the production’s values, choosing humanity over marketing schedules. When the poster finally released on November 4, it carried added significance—a celebration of cinema balanced with respect for real-world tragedy.
NC24: A Mythological Thriller Like No Other
NC24 represents ambitious filmmaking on multiple fronts. Director Karthik Varma Dandu, who previously captivated audiences with the supernatural horror thriller Virupaksha, is crafting what promises to be Telugu cinema’s definitive mythological adventure. The film’s story, penned by acclaimed director Sukumar (Pushpa franchise, Rangasthalam), underwent extensive development including a month-long scripting session in Dubai before the final draft was locked.
Naga Chaitanya described the project’s scope during a recent interview: “This will be a very heavy VFX-based cinema and I am very excited about this project. I have not done a film with this kind of span in my 15-year film career. This film will be in the zone of adventure, treasure hunting.”
| NC24 Genre Elements | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Genre | Mythological Thriller |
| Narrative Style | Adventure, Treasure Hunting |
| Visual Approach | Heavy VFX-based |
| Thematic Elements | Good vs Evil, Fate vs Free Will |
| Scale | Pan-India, High Budget |
| Tone | Mystery, Action, Mythology Blend |
The narrative reportedly weaves references to historical periods including the Dark Ages and Kalyuga, exploring timeless themes of good versus evil. The story revolves around a treasure hunter (Naga Chaitanya), an archaeologist (Meenakshi Chaudhary as Daksha), and a history student who unite to confront a looming prophecy tied to royal lineage and potential apocalypse. This ambitious premise positions NC24 as Telugu cinema’s answer to Hollywood’s archaeological adventure franchises, complete with extensive CG visuals designed to create a visually grand theatrical experience.
Production began in April 2025 at Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad, with specially constructed sets facilitating the film’s unique requirements. Filming has progressed steadily, with principal photography capturing major sequences involving Meenakshi Chaudhary, Naga Chaitanya, and antagonist Sparsh Shrivastava (Laapataa Ladies fame).
Powerhouse Technical Team
NC24 benefits from collaboration with Telugu cinema’s finest technical craftsmen. Music composer Ajaneesh B. Loknath, whose work on Virupaksha and Kantara received widespread acclaim, is creating the film’s soundtrack. Cinematographer Neil D Cunha handles the visual storytelling, while National Award-winning editor Navin Nooli ensures tight narrative pacing. Production designer Sri Nagendra Tangala, praised for his exceptional work on Thandel, oversees the film’s elaborate art direction.
This constellation of talent, combined with substantial production budgets from Sri Venkateshwara Cine Chitra LLP (SVCC) and Sukumar Writings, positions NC24 among the highest-budget films in Naga Chaitanya’s career. The investment reflects confidence in the material and the star power of both Naga Chaitanya and Meenakshi Chaudhary.
Meenakshi Chaudhary’s Career Momentum
For Meenakshi Chaudhary, Daksha represents career evolution at the perfect moment. Following her performance in Sankranthiki Vasthunam—which THR India praised for its charm and quirky character showcases—she’s transitioning from primarily comedic and romantic roles into more substantial, character-driven work. NC24 provides the platform to demonstrate dramatic range, physical commitment, and the ability to anchor complex narratives.
The actress has demonstrated consistent box office appeal across multiple Telugu releases. Her pairing with Naga Chaitanya promises fresh on-screen chemistry, particularly given the film’s unique setting and adventurous tone. Unlike conventional romantic pairings, Daksha and Chaitanya’s treasure hunter character function as professional collaborators first, adding novelty to their dynamic.
What’s Next for NC24
With more updates promised throughout November, anticipation continues building for NC24. The production team has indicated a title reveal is imminent, along with additional cast announcements and potentially a full trailer offering deeper insight into the film’s mysterious world. Naga Chaitanya’s intense new look—already released showing him wielding an axe in rugged adventure gear—has generated massive positive response, setting high expectations for the film’s visual presentation.
The project represents significant creative risks for everyone involved. Mythological thrillers with heavy VFX requirements demand substantial investment and technical precision. However, with Karthik Dandu’s proven ability to blend supernatural elements with compelling storytelling (as demonstrated in Virupaksha), Sukumar’s narrative craftsmanship, and the combined star power of Naga Chaitanya and Meenakshi Chaudhary, NC24 possesses all necessary ingredients for landmark success.
Scheduled for release later in 2025, NC24 aims to establish new benchmarks for mythological adventure cinema in Telugu, potentially expanding into pan-India territory given its universal themes and ambitious production values. For Meenakshi Chaudhary, portraying Daksha could prove career-defining—the role that establishes her as more than just a commercial heroine but a versatile actress capable of anchoring big-budget spectacles with substantial dramatic weight.
FAQs
What character does Meenakshi Chaudhary play in NC24?
Meenakshi Chaudhary plays Daksha, a passionate and courageous archaeologist who unearths ancient mysteries. Her character is integral to the film’s treasure-hunting adventure narrative.
When was Meenakshi Chaudhary’s first look from NC24 released?
The first look was released on November 4, 2025, one day later than originally planned as a mark of respect for victims of the tragic Chevella bus accident.
Who is directing NC24 and what’s the story about?
Karthik Varma Dandu (Virupaksha director) is helming NC24 based on a story by Sukumar. The mythological thriller revolves around a treasure hunter, archaeologist, and history student confronting a prophecy tied to potential apocalypse.
What is the budget and scale of NC24?
NC24 is one of the highest-budget films in Naga Chaitanya’s career, featuring heavy VFX work and pan-India ambitions. It’s produced by BVSN Prasad and Sukumar under SVCC and Sukumar Writings banners.
When will NC24 be released?
NC24 is scheduled for release later in 2025. The production began shooting in April 2025 at Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad, with filming currently in progress.
