The fake degree certificate racket has become a big headache all over India in the last few years. Fake advocates, fake engineers and even fake doctors have been detected who have been practicing on the basis of fake college certificates. The basic story of Athiratha is about the fake certificate racket.

Though the film is based on the Tamil film Kanithan, it takes into account many real incidents that have inspired the story. The film is directed by Mahesh Babu and stars Chetan Kumar in the lead. After many false starts Sadhu Kokila's son Suraag is making his debut as music composer with this film. The songs have been well received and become a big hit.