For many young professionals, working from home provides flexibility. About said Marthandit also became an unexpected stepping stone to a completely different career. Before becoming one of the most talked about directors in Telugu cinema, he spent almost two years working as a web engineer at Tech Mahindra. Today, his first film, Little Heartshas emerged as one of the best business trends of 2025.As her career in the movie is on the rise, an Instagram post she shared earlier this year has resurfaced online, giving people a glimpse into her life before the cameras. In the post, Sai looked back on his days in the industry with honesty, humor and gratitude, admitting that his love for films started way back when he was still working as an engineer.
From network engineer to filmmaker
Sai Marthand worked at Tech Mahindra’s Pune office between 2021 and 2023 as a network engineer. Marking three years after leaving the company, he shared an Instagram post in April commemorating his journey.Reflecting on working from home, Sai joked that although he was employed as a network engineer, he worked “everywhere”. He also created a visual endorsement that caught the attention of social media users.Instead of portraying himself as a remote worker, Sai wrote that he often sleeps during work hours, spends time with his cousins, watches countless films and settles for interviews with filmmakers. In retrospect, the events seem less dramatic and more like the beginning of a dream.Ending the post with a joke, he wrote, “Sorry Anand sir,” referring to the Chairman of Tech Mahindra. Anand Mahindrabefore thanking the company for the memories and describing those years as the most special in his life.Despite his lighthearted tone, Sai also expressed his gratitude to his former teammates, thanking them for their patience and support. He vividly remembers receiving a smart watch as a farewell gift after leaving the company in April 2023.
The jump paid off
Soon after quitting his job, Sai decided to start making films full time. It was a risky career move, but one that quickly began to produce results.his debut, Little HeartsThe coming-of-age romantic drama directed by Mouli Tanuj Prasanth and Shivani Nagaram, is said to have been made on a budget of around Rs 2.4 crore and completed after just one month of shooting.The film became one of the amazing stories of Telugu cinema of 2025. According to Sacnilk box office, it collected around Rs 40 crore worldwide, which is the most successful debut film. This success was further boosted by the appreciation of Telugu stars Mahesh Babu and Nani, helping to introduce Sai to a wider audience. Following its theatrical run, the film was also shown on Netflix, expanding its reach beyond the cinema.
Be aware of what’s coming
Success of Little Hearts followed by corporate recognition. Sai Marthand won the Best Debut Feature Film Director award at the Telangana Gaddar Film Awards, marking an impressive start to his filmmaking career.His next project has already begun. Sai is all set to write and direct an untitled feature film Adivi SeshProduction is expected to begin after the player finishes work on G2.Sai Marthand’s journey is one that can resonate with many young professionals who quietly live their dreams outside of their day jobs. From a network engineer who attends virtual conferences to a filmmaker whose exposure has won audiences and industry recognition, his story shows how passion and faith can turn into a career.