Interviews

The Paradise is set to hit theatres on September 24, 2026, in multiple languages. Amid the final post-production rush, Nani took time out to meet us and open up about the film, his character and what awaits audiences. Here’s the transcript.

What is the story of The Paradise set around?

The Paradise is set in a fictional region in 1984-85. People belonging to a tribe called the “Savaareelu” live there without any identity. When they themselves have no identity, even if they are attacked, nobody cares. The story is about such people fighting for their existence and identity.

What is the main emotion driving the story?

The film’s first glimpse begins with the mother’s words, and the film itself begins and ends with that emotion. No matter how many songs or big fights there are, what stays in the audience’s mind when they leave the theatre is the bond between the mother and son. That emotion will remain as a good memory in their hearts for a long time.

How is your character ‘Jadalu’ different from the characters you have played before?

I did not grow dreadlocks simply to create a new look. It came completely from the story and its world. Most of the characters I have played so far were people who live around us in society, people who are familiar to everyone. But this character did not grow up in ordinary society. Right from the beginning of the story, there is a certain madness and intensity in him. Playing this kind of character on the Telugu screen is a first in my career.

How did Mohan Babu come on board for such a brutal negative role?

On the very first day he narrated the story to me, Srikanth told me that Mohan Babu garu would be the right person for this role. I was surprised and wondered whether he would do such a brutal and negative character. But as soon as Mohan Babu garu heard the story, he was very enthusiastic and happily came forward to do the film.

How does director Srikanth Odela’s approach shape The Paradise?

Srikanth himself is like a genuine mass audience member. He doesn’t add mass scenes just for commercial calculations. He writes those scenes very honestly, from his heart. Whenever a shot comes out well on the monitor, the confidence he shows by saying, “Theatres will go crazy, brother,” is his real strength.

How was your experience working with Sonali Kulkarni?

Sonali Kulkarni is a very dedicated actress. She worked through rain, mud and night shoots without complaining. I believe audiences will appreciate her performance in the role of the mother.

What makes Anirudh’s background score stand out in The Paradise?

I believe this is the best background score Anirudh has given for any of my films so far. Jersey had an emotional mood, while Gang Leader had a fun tone. But in this film, Anirudh got the complete scope to hold the theatre together with his score from beginning to end, and he has made it twice as wonderful.

Why did the team decide not to postpone the release for a third time?

We had already postponed the release date twice, so we strongly decided that we should not change it a third time. That is why our entire team has been working day and night for the past 20 days. Producer Sudhakar garu is very happy and confident about the output of the film.

How were the fights designed differently from routine commercial action sequences?

The fights were designed not simply as fights, but like individual scenes and pieces of drama. Every fight was given a special name within our team. The action will give the audience a very new kind of kick when they watch it in the theatre.

Natural Star Nani’s period action entertainer, The Paradise, is directed by Srikanth Odela and produced on a grand scale by Sudhakar Cherukuri under the SLV Cinemas banner. The promotional content released so far has received a superb response. The film is set to release worldwide on September 24. Ahead of the release, the director interacted with the media, and here’s the transcript.

Is the story completely fictional, or is it based on real incidents?

It is both. Regarding the jadal (braids) part, it is based on my own experience. When I was young, my mother used to raise me as a girl because she wanted a daughter. She started making braids in my hair. The revolution part is inspired by a real-life incident that happened in Adilabad.

Why were you disappointed with Dasara?

The second half of Dasara will be classy. I am very interested in poster designing and all. Because of the way we marketed the film, many thought it was an outright mass film like KGF. But when the drama dominated the proceedings, a few told me they were disappointed. The film was the opposite of their expectations. Then I decided to give the audience what they wanted with The Paradise.

Is The Paradise an out-and-out action film?

It isn’t a full-fledged commercial action film. There will be a blend of many aspects, including emotions and social elements. I believe the emotions in The Paradise will dominate the action part. When people come out of the theatre, the emotional aspect will register strongly.

Do you think avoiding the trailer is a good move?

In the olden days, there used to be a surprise factor in movies, since we didn’t know what we were going to watch. But that is missing now due to the promotional culture and too many updates. I don’t want to rush things. Whatever I wish to do, I want to do it wholeheartedly. We don’t have enough time to cut the trailer.

Despite the delays, why have the post-production work and shooting been prolonged until the 11th hour?

It’s because I failed at planning. When I want something a certain way, I don’t stop until that is achieved. I didn’t reshoot any scenes, but I tortured the artists. That is true. I am even ready to do 100 takes until perfection is achieved. The schedules took longer than planned, and it was tough to obtain the actors’ call sheets.

How did you convince Nani garu for the braid look?

I told Nani anna that he should sport a double-braid look, and he immediately gave his nod. People around him told him not to agree, and even people in my team raised doubts. But I believed in it strongly. There is a proper emotional touch to the jadal part.

How many songs are there in the film? Will the film have a sequel?

Including the bit songs, there will be six songs. Anirudh is someone with whom we can share everything openly. I felt so much comfort working with him. There is no sequel to The Paradise. It is a single-part film.

The upcoming Telugu film Epic is based on the character Aditya from the much-loved Telugu series #90’s. The film, directed by Aditya Haasan, features the Baby pair Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya in the lead roles. The trailer has already sparked discussions with its youthful themes. Naga Vamsi is bankrolling Epic, and ahead of its release on Friday, Anand interacted with the media. Here’s the transcript.

Tell us how the film is going to be.

We have been highly confident about the film right from the beginning. Epic will appeal to audiences of all generations. It will connect with everyone who stays in other countries for education. Even small incidents in a middle-class boy’s life are very important. We depicted many things related to love and family responsibilities in a beautiful manner. This isn’t a regular film.

Describe your character in the movie.

Aditya is an innocent guy. He gets confused about everything. Should he do something that he likes or listen to his parents? Should he continue loving the girl and marry her? So many thoughts run through his mind. Every scene and conversation will tug at the heartstrings.

Do you think Baby’s impact will be there on Epic?

Since Baby is a smash hit and I have once again paired up with Vaishnavi, there will obviously be conversations about it. However, there is no connection between the two. Both films are special in their own ways. Baby is a sensation, while Epic is a beautiful journey. The discussions around us and the #90’s web series will help our film ultimately.

Is Epic a continuation of the #90’s web series?

It isn’t a sequel. But Epic is from the world of #90’s. The story and characters are derived from the series. Aditya goes abroad to pursue education, and his experiences there form the crux of the story. We have only shown the parents’ characters to the point where they are necessary to this plot. While #90’s is a family story, Epic is a love story. The movie features natural humor and moving emotions.

Do you discuss with Rashmika about your films?

We don’t usually talk about films. But when I was tense about fixing the release date for Epic, my sister-in-law gave me complete mental support.

Tell us about your upcoming films.

I wrapped up the shooting for Netflix’s Takshakudu. Also, I am done working on a film set against the Indo-Korean backdrop.

Sumanth’s next theatrical appearance will be in the spiritual mystery thriller Mahendragiri Varahi, directed by Santhossh Jagarlapudi. The film is bankrolled by Kalipu Madhu and Laxman under the banners of Rajashyamala Entertainments and Bridge Films. Aishwarya Rajesh, Minakshi Goswami, Malvika Nair, Brahmanandam, Vennela Kishore, Rajeev Kanakala, and Ali play significant roles. Siddu Jonnalagadda will be seen in a cameo. Ahead of its release on Friday, Sumanth interacted with the media, and here’s the transcript.

What aspect of the story impressed you?

I liked the whole story pretty much. The pre-climax and climax episodes are the highlights, and they will deliver a high to the audience. Director Santosh has a solid grip on the Vedas and mythology. This is the right subject for him, and he delivered what he promised. We never expected to make the film on such a big scale. Everything from the VFX to acting came out very well. The movie will offer a splendid theatrical experience.

Tell us about your role.

I appear as a YouTuber who exposes superstitions. At the moment, I can’t reveal much about the character. This is a devotional action thriller. Also, it features a neat family drama with commercial elements.

What role isSiddhu playing?

He played a serious character, and we have one combination scene that stands out. Everyone who saw the film spoke highly about that particular scene. It will do a world of good for Mahendragiri Varahi. I thank him for being a part of this movie.

Did you do Mahendragiri Varahi because films with a mythology backdrop are performing well?

No. Recently, it began with Karthikeya and Kantara, but that trend has been there for a long time. Due to those two movies, the trend once again picked up pace. But we started travelling with this story three years ago. We didn’t find the right people to back it. Then Madhu garu and Lakshman garu came on board.

The trailer has similarities to Murari. Can you tell us about it?

In the trailer, we showed that people belonging to a clan will die after attaining 33 years. That point might have reminded a few people of Murari, but Mahendragiri Varahi is in no way related to that film. The subject itself is very different. Even the story and screenplay will be unique.

You earlier said you would also take on antagonist roles. What happened to that?

I am ready to do villain roles. Apart from playing the protagonist/good guy, I am open to a variety of roles, including supporting and villain roles. I am actively listening to stories.

The upcoming Telugu film Epic is based on the character Aditya from the much-loved Telugu series #90’s. The film, directed by Aditya Haasan, features the Baby pair Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya in the lead roles. The trailer has already sparked discussions with its youthful themes. Naga Vamsi is bankrolling Epic, and ahead of its release on Friday, Vaishnavi Chaitanya interacted with the media. Here’s the transcript.

Tell us about your character in the film.

Kadali can be seen in everyone. A version of us remains inside us because of family and society. That side of us won’t come out. Everyone should stand up for themselves at a certain point in life. Hence, Kadali is close to my heart.

Are you feeling any pressure since this is your immediate film with Anand after Baby?

Baby and Epic are special in their own way. I don’t have any pressure, but I took up Epic as a challenge. If people don’t get reminded of Baby while watching Epic, then we are successful. We strongly believe that Epic will connect with the audience.

What is so special about Epic?

We have seen many love stories, but each of them has its own USP. Epic also has its uniqueness. Two people with different mindsets go to the UK for higher education, and they start living together. Their private conversations form the basis of Epic. A boy and a girl look at life differently. How did they both meet, and what are their thoughts? This aspect brings freshness to Epic.

Can family audiences watch Epic?

Family audiences can happily watch Epic. We explored a live-in relationship through Epic, and hence, it might not be a clean entertainer like #90’s. But director Aditya depicted only what was necessary for the plot and also kept family audiences in mind while designing certain sequences. There won’t be any uncomfortable portions.

What did you learn from the film?

I generally feel nervous about saying something in public. The Kadali character helped me understand that we have to believe in ourselves first and be confident. There have been many films that have spoken about independent women. What’s special about Epic is that it tells the story of a girl who deals with her own issues but also progresses in life. We also gave a good message to the audience through my character.

What about your upcoming projects?

I am doing a film under the Sithara Entertainments banner, headlined by Nithiin garu. Also, I am doing two films in Tamil and one project in Bollywood.

Karthi’s Sardar 2, the sequel to the 2022 blockbuster Sardar, has already created good buzz among the audience. The recently released trailer promised a big-screen spectacle packed with stylish action and thrills. Directed by PS Mithran, the movie stars SJ Suryah, Malavika Mohanan, and Ashika Ranganath in key roles, while Sam C.S. is composing the music. Lakshman Kumar bankrolled it under the Prince Pictures banner. Ahead of the release on September 10, Karthi interacted with the media, and here’s the transcript.

Sardar created a huge impact, and the film reminds us of water bottles. What is Sardar 2 about?

The number of spy films is low in India. Also, it isn’t an easy task to make one. For us, Tom Cruise comes to mind when we hear the word spy. During the narration, I was told that the spy in the film wears a dhoti, and I instantly connected with it. A person named Ravindra Kaushik, a stage artist, became a military officer in Pakistan. We know that story well. Also, spy officers move around us like common people. PS Mithran added these elements to the story, and I found them interesting.

What made you sign the sequel?

PS Mithran came up with a strong reason why Sardar comes back. Also, he designed a strong villain character played by SJ Suryah garu. We can’t reveal what the movie is about at the moment. Sardar 2 will be ten times more impactful than Sardar. Telugu audiences encouraged our film more than the Tamil audience.

Tell us about the action in Sardar 2.

We recently saw Dhurandhar in the spy genre. But the concept of that film is entirely different. In the same way, Sardar 2 will be of a high standard in terms of concept and visual imagery. Sardar 2 will prove that South cinema can also make a great spy thriller.

Is the story set outside of India?

Spy agents won’t have a normal family life. Also, they won’t get recognition for their efforts because they should remain anonymous. In Dhurandhar, the protagonist goes to another country on an operation. Most spy films will have the same pattern. In Sardar 2, the hero solves the problem that troubles India, and we told it in an exciting manner.

Does the audience have to watch Sardar before watching Sardar 2?

Since this is a sequel, I suggest that those who haven’t watched Sardar watch it. We made the film free on YouTube. Even those who have seen it are advised to rewatch it to connect with the second film better.

What about your upcoming projects?

I’m doing HIT 4 with Sailesh Kolanu garu. I’m working on a fun entertainer with Kalyan Shankar sir. It’s been a while since I have been a part of such a film. Marshal is 50% done.

Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja’s new film Irumudi is arriving this Friday. The emotional family drama, directed by Shiva Nirvana, features Priya Bhavani Shankar as the female lead. Mythri Movie Makers has bankrolled the film. Ahead of the release, Shiva Nirvana interacted with the media, and here’s the transcript.

Each and every promotional asset clicked well, raising expectations. Will the film live up to them?

There are three layers in the film — Ayyappa Swamy Mala, family drama, and crime angle. We planned the promotions accordingly. With the trailer, we gave a hint of what the film is about. Audiences are well prepared now. Irumudi will live up to expectations.

What preparation did you do to present Ravi Teja in a new manner?

When a new point is explored and a star becomes a part of it, the reach will be on another level. The Ayyappa Swamy backdrop is new, and if a star like Ravi Teja garu headlines it, the reach will be massive.

When the first look was released, there were comparisons with Maalikapuram, right? How did you feel?

Very few films have explored the Ayyappa Swamy backdrop in the South. Long ago, a film called Ayyappa Swamy Mahathyam came. We haven’t had a star like Ravi Teja featuring in such a film. Since there aren’t many films in this space, comparisons are quite common. I didn’t worry about it much because I know my content.

Was Ravi Teja the first choice?

I didn’t think about actors when I wrote the script. But later, I felt Ravi Teja garu would be the right fit. His beard and look have perfectly aligned with the protagonist’s role. He gave me complete freedom and didn’t pressurize me.

Tell us about Baby Nakshatra.

We needed a lot of nativity for this character. She should look like a kid from our home. That’s when I came across her Instagram Reels. We did a look test and shot two test videos. Later, we felt she was the perfect choice.

Irumudi looks very different from your previous works. How do you see this?

I intend to tell every story in the best way. Ninnu Kori and Majili are memorable films. Even when I’m not in the industry, people should talk about my stories. Such intensity is generally found in love stories. The Irumudi story also came out pretty well, blending family and crime elements.

After Malli Pelli, veteran producer MS Raju once again returned to the director’s chair with the horror thriller Agadha. The movie starring Kamakshi Bhaskarla, Ulka Gupta, and Shravan Reddy releases on August 14. It is produced by Kasi Visalakshi Balusu under the Sri Adi Varaha Productions LLP banner and presented by Ajay KR. Ahead of the release, MS Raju interacted with the media, and here’s the transcript.
What is meant by Agadha?

Once the title was announced, many searched for its meaning online. Agadha can be defined as something profound or a void. We haven’t seen gods or ghosts. The Agadha story is about the battle between those forces. Currently, youth and the masses are driving the openings. Later, with word of mouth, the family audience will flock to theatres. At the pre-release event, Shyam Prasad Reddy garu said that, knowing everything about me, I wouldn’t make another horror film. As he said, Agadha is much more than a horror film. The evil force that works against God is shown as Agadha.

What research did you do for this film?

I traveled to a lot of places and did a lot of research. But that is not required for the audience. I made sure Agadha would appeal to a wide range of audiences instead of approaching it as an art film. I added fantasy to the reality that I know to deliver a cinematic experience. During Devi, I faced many financial hurdles, but a powerful force showed me the way forward. I felt the same even for Agadha. I wanted to make a film on an evil force, keeping this generation in mind. I also wanted to attract the multiplex audience.

You seem to be highly confident in the film’s success?

I never openly said on stage that a film of mine was good. But after watching Agadha, I was satisfied and strongly felt that it would do well at the box office. I said the same thing. I am sure that people will also receive the movie in the same way as I did.

Tell us about the film’s distribution.

Initially, I didn’t want to sell the film to others. But once the trailer dropped, I received many calls for distribution. Hombale Films approached me from Kannada. A few from Geetha Arts and Annapurna Studios have seen the film. I wanted to release the film here first and then in other languages. Dubbing has also been done for other languages.

Will you continue as the director going forward, or will you produce movies?

Lately, I have been focusing on story, screenplay, writing, and making. I am not concentrating on financial matters. For Dirty Hari and Agadha, my friends came forward to produce. Hence, I am only focusing on making rather than money matters.

Is the Agadha 2 story ready?

After Agadha releases, I will tell if it’s a prequel or a sequel. This film has the scope for another installment. Agadha is a mystic divine thriller. It will appeal to all sections of the audience.

Interview: Varun Tej – Korean Kanakaraju is an out-and-out entertainer

Mega Prince Varun Tej will next be seen in the horror-comedy entertainer Korean Kanakaraju. The film, directed by Merlapaka Gandhi, features Ritika Nayak as the female lead. The movie is jointly produced by Rajeev Reddy and Sai Baba Jagarlamudi under the banners of UV Creations and First Frame Entertainments. Thaman is the music composer. Ahead of the release tomorrow, Varun Tej interacted with the media, and here is the transcript.
What aspects of the Korean Kanakaraju story impressed you?

I liked the entertainment the most. Even during the narration, I was laughing nonstop. I usually listen to a story as a viewer watching a film in a theatre. Like every actor, I wish to do versatile roles. After COVID, I have been doing more serious films. I wanted to do an entertaining film. Korean Kanakaraju was made with the intention of amusing the audience for two and a half hours.

Premieres are filling up fast. Has the pressure reduced?

We completed shooting much earlier, and we had ample time for post-production. The film has come out very well, and hence we are exuding the same confidence during promotions. Director Gandhi, Ritika, and Satya promoted the film wholeheartedly, treating it as their own. With the teaser and trailer, audiences have decided to watch the film, and the same is being reflected in the bookings.

You approached promotions quite differently. Tell us about it.

We need to do something unique to take the film closer to the audience these days. Also, the promotional campaign should be in sync with the film’s content. Some said that we revealed the whole story, but we wanted to prepare the audience. Korean Kanakaraju is an out-and-out entertainer. It is tough to edit trailers for this kind of film.

How was it learning Korean?

I like learning new things, and that’s one of the reasons I became an actor. I love playing new roles and being able to behave like a new person. I work hard to ensure that the character appears on the screen and not me.

Some are comparing the film to OG. What do you say about it?

For Kalyan Babai’s fans, OG is very special, and it left a huge impact. It has a Japanese touch. Hence, some might have felt that way. But Korean Kanakaraju is in no way similar to OG.

How are you maintaining a work-life balance?

After Lavanya and I were blessed with a baby boy, I didn’t have any shootings, and hence I spent more time at home. But whenever there is a shoot, I miss them. I am at home only when there is no shooting. I travel only with my family. It is important to balance professional and personal lives.

Mega Prince Varun Tej will next be seen in the horror-comedy entertainer Korean Kanakaraju. The film, directed by Merlapaka Gandhi, features Ritika Nayak as the female lead. It is set to hit the big screens on August 7, 2026. The movie is jointly produced by Rajeev Reddy and Sai Baba Jagarlamudi under the banners of UV Creations and First Frame Entertainments. Thaman is the music composer. Ahead of the release, Merlapaka Gandhi interacted with the media, and here is the transcript.

From where did the story originate?

I went to a marriage with friends in Anantapur. We stopped at the Kia factory, and that spot was visually superb. We got to know that there are restaurants, a community, and markets specially designed for Koreans working at the company. It piqued my interest instantly. That is when I thought of an idea to unite Anantapur and Korea. This is how the idea for Korean Kanakaraju stemmed.

Was this story written for Varun Tej?

No, I had a different story for him. Later, I told him the Korean Kanakaraju concept. He liked it very much and asked me to develop it. Later, I gave the final narration, and he was heavily impressed. He also suggested minor changes. I like his acting. He always attempts new concepts. Varun did a solid job in Korean Kanakaraju, playing two shades.

Tell us about Ritika’s role.

She works in a Korean factory in the film and loves Korean culture. In real life, Ritika knows the Korean language, and her look also matches their culture. There are many Korean dialogues in the film. We brought tutors from Korea to train the lead pair. Also, for the Anantapur slang, we sought help from local tutors.

Did you get permission to shoot in Korea easily?

No. If we want to go there, or even if they need to come here, there is a huge process involved. We shot on a Korean island for 20 days. Once the script was locked, we wanted to shoot there. Also, it costs a lot to film in Korea. Hence, we went there with a minimum crew. We also shot some portions in Kazakhstan.

How confident are you about the film?

We will surely entertain audiences with Korean Kanakaraju. Varun Tej and I took extreme care regarding the film. We worked very hard with the motive of scoring a big hit.

What about your upcoming projects?

I am currently working on a story. It also belongs to the comedy thriller genre. Comedy is my comfort genre.