“They Call Him OG” has set Telugu cinema fans on fire. Every frame from the teaser screams Power Star energy – raw, stylish, and larger-than-life. As Pawan Kalyan gears up to return with what’s shaping up to be one of his most anticipated films, it’s only fair that we take a trip down memory lane.
Before watching They Call Him OG, on Netflix on 23 October 2025, let’s revisit 5 must-watch Pawan Kalyan movies that prove exactly why his fanbase isn’t built — it’s inherited, generation to generation.
1. Tholi Prema (1998) – The Heartbeat of a Generation
Before the mass hero era, Pawan Kalyan made hearts melt with Tholi Prema. His portrayal of Balu — the shy, intense lover — was so real, it defined romantic cinema for an entire decade.
This wasn’t just another love story. It was poetic, vulnerable, and deeply human — a film that showcased Pawan’s ability to make emotion look effortless. Even today, Tholi Prema feels timeless, a must-watch before They Call Him OG if you want to see where the legend began.
2. Khushi (2001) – The Ultimate Love Story with Attitude
There’s pre-Khushi Telugu cinema and post-Khushi Telugu cinema. That’s how iconic this film is.
Pawan Kalyan’s portrayal of Siddhu was full of playful arrogance and relatable emotion. His chemistry with Bhumika Chawla was electric, and the film’s dialogues became instant pop culture. From the style to the swag, everything screamed “Power Star.”
If you’re prepping for They Call Him OG, Khushi is a must-see reminder of Pawan’s magnetic charm and comic timing.
3. Jalsa (2008) – The Stylish Rebel Returns
Directed by Trivikram Srinivas, Jalsa was Pawan Kalyan’s comeback vehicle — and what a comeback it was.
He played Sanjay Sahu, a carefree man with a painful past, blending humor, intensity, and charisma like only he can. With Devi Sri Prasad’s soundtrack and Trivikram’s witty writing, Jalsa became an instant classic that showcased Pawan’s full range — entertainer, philosopher, and style icon, all rolled into one.
Before watching They Call Him OG, this is the movie to understand how Pawan blends mass energy with emotional weight.
4. Gabbar Singh (2012) – The Mass King’s Reign
If Tholi Prema made him the nation’s crush, Gabbar Singh made him the people’s champion.
A Telugu remake of Dabangg, Gabbar Singh wasn’t just a movie — it was a cultural event. Pawan Kalyan’s version of Chulbul Pandey wasn’t a copy; it was a reinvention. His mannerisms, punch dialogues, and comic flair brought audiences back to theatres in droves.
From “Naaku konchem tikk undi” to the unforgettable police uniform look, Gabbar Singh is the movie that re-crowned him as the “Power Star.”
5. Attarintiki Daredi (2013) – The Emotional Family Entertainer
The Trivikram–Pawan combo strikes again. Attarintiki Daredi arrived at a time when Telugu cinema needed a feel-good entertainer, and it delivered big time.
As Gautam Nanda, Pawan brought warmth, humor, and star presence that made this family drama unmissable. The film broke box office records, proving once again that he doesn’t just have fans — he has devotees.
If you’re gearing up for They Call Him OG, this one’s your perfect mood-setter. It captures the emotional, respectful side of the man behind the mass image.
5 Roles That Shaped the Man We Now Call OG
Because They Call Him OG isn’t just another Pawan Kalyan film — it’s a culmination of everything that’s made him a phenomenon for over two decades. Each of these five movies represents a different phase of his cinematic evolution:
- Tholi Prema – The Lover
- Khushi – The Youth Icon
- Jalsa – The Stylish Rebel
- Gabbar Singh – The Mass Hero
- Attarintiki Daredi – The Emotional Leader
And now, with They Call Him OG, he’s stepping into a darker, grittier avatar that feels like the sum total of every role he’s ever played.
Conclusion
Before watching They Call Him OG, catch up on these 5 iconic Pawan Kalyan movies. They’re not just hits — they’re milestones in Telugu cinema. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a new viewer jumping into the OG hype train, these films will show you why the “Power Star” isn’t just a name — it’s a legacy.
Brace yourself, because They Call Him OG might just be Pawan Kalyan’s boldest chapter yet.
FAQs
A: It’s an upcoming Telugu gangster action drama directed by Sujeeth, featuring Pawan Kalyan in a ruthless, high-octane avatar. The teaser hints at a dark and stylish revenge saga.
A: They Call Him OG was released on 23 October on Netflix.
A: Tholi Prema – Amazon Prime Video
Khushi – Aha
Jalsa – YouTube
Gabbar Singh – Disney+ Hotstar
Attarintiki Daredi – Netflix
A: No, it’s a standalone action film, but it draws on Pawan’s signature screen presence and charisma that fans love from his past hits.
