AIR Review- ETV Win, known for its previous success Anaganaga, returns with another youth-centric Telugu series titled AIR – All India Rankers. Released on July 3, 2025, this new drama dives deep into the lives of students forced onto the IIT path.
The story explores the struggle of three boys under academic pressure
The show follows Arjun (Harsha Roshan), Imran (Jayatheertha), and Raju (Bhanu Prakash), three friends who just finished their 10th grade. Pressured by their parents to join an IIT coaching institute, they end up at a strict college where studies take priority over everything else.
Adapting to the environment proves difficult for the trio. While they consider quitting, unexpected events force them to stay. Things take a serious turn when a major incident puts them in trouble. The rest of the story follows their journey through emotional highs and lows, friendship, and the overwhelming pressure of academic life.
Relatable moments and honest emotions keep you hooked
The biggest strength of AIR lies in its relatability. For anyone who has faced hostel life or pressure after 10th grade, this series will hit home. The friendship, struggles, and funny bits around bunking classes or hiding things in hostels feel real and nostalgic.
Harsha Roshan shines once again after his impressive role in Court. His performance feels natural and impactful. Bhanu Prakash and Jayatheertha offer solid support, and their chemistry as close friends adds warmth to the story.
Actors like Harsha Chemudu, Chaitanya Rao, and Sandeep Raj bring depth to the supporting cast. Harsha Chemudu, known for comedy, handles his mostly serious role with ease, slipping in light moments where needed. Jeevan Kumar adds a touch of humor too.
Some slow episodes and rushed character arcs drag it down
While the show starts strong, the middle episodes feel stretched and repetitive. Just when the tension should rise, the plot slows down. Also, the bond between the friends and their families could have been explored better.
Chaitanya Rao’s character arrives late and exits too soon. Though he makes an impression, his arc feels incomplete. Also, some of the motivational moments and the “last-minute success” scenes come off as a bit too cinematic rather than realistic.
Direction and technical work are solid overall
Director Joseph Clinton deserves credit for highlighting the flaws in the education system without being preachy. He presents the story with subtle messages, making the audience think without pointing fingers.
SS Manoj’s cinematography blends well with the story’s tone. The background score by Sinjith Yerramilli works nicely, and Anivee’s music supports the narrative. Editing by Srikanth Patnaik R is decent, though a few scenes could’ve been trimmed for better pace. Production values remain consistent throughout.
Worth watching for the emotions and memories
AIR – All India Rankers may not be groundbreaking, but it’s an honest take on student life and the academic race many teens face. While it dips slightly in the middle and takes a few cinematic liberties, it finishes on a heartfelt and satisfying note. The young actors impress, the story is relatable, and the series is definitely worth checking out—especially if you’ve lived through hostel life or faced exam pressure.
