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Sushanth Reddy, best known for playing Karthik in Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi, has confirmed his exit from the upcoming sequel ENE Repeat. The first part, which released in 2018, went on to become a cult favourite for its storytelling and portrayal of friendship. Following the announcement of the sequel in 2025, Sushanth leaving the film has surprised fans. Director Tharun Bhascker has now opened up about it, admitting that the decision left him emotionally shaken at first, but he later accepted his choice to move on, choosing to focus on telling the story without compromise. Here's why Sai Sushanth exited the film.
Sai Sushanth Reddy’s Exit from ENE Repeat: What Happened
Director Tharun Bhascker recently opened up about Sai Sushanth Reddy’s decision to move away from ENE Repeat, the sequel to the Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi. The announcement came months after the sequel was officially revealed in June 2025, sparking widespread discussion among fans. Sai Sushanth Reddy decided to prioritize his family’s business over acting. He felt that continuing to work in cinema while managing other responsibilities would mean being divided between two worlds, something he did not want.
In a heartfelt statement on his Instagram, Sushanth shared that eight years had passed since the first film, and life had changed significantly. With shifting priorities and responsibilities, he made what he described as a “tough but conscious” decision to step back from ENE Repeat, a decision that didn't come easy.
Tharun Bhascker gave a heartfelt and candid response to Sushanth’s exit. He admitted that when Sushanth personally called him to explain his decision, it left him heartbroken and angry initially. The director revealed that the frustration came from losing an actor he valued highly. Tharun also said he understood the situation and acknowledged that every individual has their own life path. He went on to add that while he was disappointed, he respected Sushanth’s honesty.
A New Karthik Enters ENE Repeat
Following Sushanth’s exit,
Srikanth Maganti (of HIT 3 and Animal fame) has been roped in to play Karthik. Addressing fan concerns, Tharun Bhascker confidently mentioned in his statement that the essence of the character remains unchanged. According to the director, cinema has the power to over come casting changes. He assured audiences that they would still see Karthik on screen, emphasizing that storytelling and performance would make the transition seamless.
About Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi
Released in 2018, Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi became a cult favourite for its relatable portrayal of friendship, ambition, and life’s crossroads. Marking eight years since its release, the makers unveiled a promo for ENE Repeat in 2025, featuring the line, “
Elinaati Shani Ayyipoyindi, Kanyaraasi Time Ochindi,” hinting at a celebratory and fun-filled sequel. The film now stars Vishwak Sen, Srikanth Maganti, Abhinav Gomatam and Venkatesh Kakumanu.
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