Interviews

Jaya Krishna Ghattamaneni, the grandson of legendary superstar Krishna and nephew of Mahesh Babu, is making his movie debut with Srinivasa Mangapuram. Ajay Bhupathi is the director. The film also introduces Bollywood actress Rasha Thadani, daughter of Raveena Tandon, to Telugu cinema. Senior actor Dr Mohan Babu plays the antagonist. Backed by producer P Kiran, the film is presented by Ashwini Dutt under Vyjayanthi Movies. Ahead of the release, Jaya Krishna interacted with the media, and here’s the transcript.

When did you decide to become an actor?

I have been admiring movies since my childhood. When I was 16, I decided to become an actor. Then I took proper training. I trained in Mumbai, Pondicherry, and New York. After coming back, I started listening to stories.

How did the journey of Srinivasa Mangapuram start?

It all started with Gemini Kiran garu. He introduced me to Ajay Bhupathi garu. Even before this, I heard a few scripts, but the one narrated by Ajay garu felt amazing. I decided to make my debut with a good character and script.

How was your family’s support? Did Mahesh garu see the film?

Everyone in the family supported me. Mahesh uncle guided me in every aspect. He watched the film and felt happy. He even texted me saying that he liked the action sequences and songs. He said I looked completely different on screen.

How was it working with Vyjayanthi Movies?

I share a good bond with Ashwini Dutt garu. It feels great to be introduced through Vyjayanthi Movies. Even Mahesh uncle was launched through Vyjayanthi. I believe the result will also be the same.

Don’t you feel the pressure?

Even before I started the film, Ghattamaneni fans supported me. So, I was mindful that I should live up to their love and trust. I think pressure is a good thing. It helps me choose good scripts. I want to get closer to the fans.

Describe what the film will be like.

Srinivasa Mangapuram will be realistic and rustic. This isn’t a template love story. The emotions are very strong, and the twists will be unique. It was a good experience working with Rasha Thadani.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Thalapathy Vijay’s Jana Nayagan marks his final outing in cinema before dedicating himself full-time to politics. Directed by H. Vinoth, the film stars Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, and Mamitha Baiju in pivotal roles. Produced on a massive scale by Venkat K. Narayana under the prestigious KVN Productions banner, the highly anticipated film is set for a worldwide release on July 23. Ahead of the release, the producer interacted with the media and shared some insights about the film. Here’s the transcript.

You faced a few hurdles regarding the film’s release. Did you anticipate them?

We did expect some challenges. Vijay sir had even warned us about them beforehand. However, we only anticipated hurdles related to the theatrical release. What we eventually went through was far beyond our expectations. We never imagined facing so many issues at the same time, including release delays, piracy, and court cases. On the brighter side, the film is releasing after Vijay sir became the Chief Minister, which has further increased the excitement among fans.

You have achieved great success in business. What inspired you to enter the film industry?

I have loved movies since childhood. Cinema teaches us many things that books cannot. Songs, lyrics, and stories leave a lasting impact on our lives. In Peddi, there’s a dialogue: “Why live such a long life if you’re going to live it the same way?” I absolutely loved that line. Powerful ideas like these can be effectively conveyed to society through cinema. Entering the film industry was always on my bucket list.

How did your journey with Thalapathy Vijay begin?

This is my first Tamil film. I already knew Vijay sir’s manager, and we had discussions during the time of Leo. I came to know that Vijay sir was planning one more film after GOAT. Since I have always admired his work, I conveyed my interest through his manager. The project was finalized in just one meeting.

Whose idea was it to take Bhagavanth Kesari as an inspiration for Jana Nayagan?

Vijay sir really liked Bhagavanth Kesari, and so did I. We only took inspiration from two scenes and built the rest of the story in a completely different world. We also discussed it with Anil Ravipudi. We intended to present a fresh story to the audience. We were completely honest while cutting the trailer and never tried to hide the fact that two scenes were inspired by Bhagavanth Kesari. While the trailer may create a certain impression, the film unfolds in a completely new world with a fresh conflict. Apart from the basic thread of a young girl joining the Army, everything else is entirely original. If audiences watch the film with an open mind, they will experience a fresh and emotionally powerful story.

You faced several challenges with the censor certification. What is your reaction to the entire process?

The film carries a strong message about empowering the girl child and bringing about positive social change. Bhagavanth Kesari even won a National Award. It was disappointing that our film was initially awarded a U/A certificate but was later changed to an A certificate. Since this is a film meant to inspire young audiences, we hoped families could watch it together so the message would reach more people. However, we respect the Censor Board’s decision, which was taken from its perspective.

Jana Nayagan was delayed significantly. What challenges did you face as a producer?

When a film of this scale misses its planned release date, the challenges for a producer multiply. The delay impacts not only the producer but the entire ecosystem associated with the film. Despite that, we believe that when the destination is great, the journey is bound to be difficult. Great victories never come easy, and God places the crown only after the battle.

Journalist-turned-producer SKN left a mark with films like Taxiwala and Baby. He is now bringing Chennai Love Story to the audience. The film stars Kiran Abbavaram and Sri Gouri Priya in the lead roles and is produced by SKN and Sai Rajesh under the Amrutha Productions and Mass Movie Makers banners. Sai Rajesh has provided the story, while Ravi Namburi directed the film. Melody Brahma Mani Sharma has composed the music. Chennai Love Story is set to release on July 24. During a recent interview, SKN shared some highlights about the film.

Why is the film titled Chennai Love Story?

Our lead couple is Telugu, but they live in Chennai, which is why we named the film Chennai Love Story. After the massive success of Baby, expectations from us have increased considerably. We wanted to return only with a genuinely good film, so we took nearly a year. The story and screenplay narrated by National Award-winning writer Sai Rajesh impressed us greatly, and we decided to produce it together.

Why did you cast Kiran Abbavaram for Chennai Love Story?

He did complete justice to our vision. People have mostly seen him in boy-next-door and mass roles. But Chennai Love Story showcases a new level of maturity in his performance. I am sure he will get nominated for all major awards. During the shoot of the film, I witnessed his immense passion for cinema.

What is the film about?

Whether it is first love or second love, both are a part of our lives. Just because someone doesn’t succeed in their first love doesn’t mean they can never fall in love again. Life always moves forward. Baby was built around the theme of first love, while Chennai Love Story celebrates the beauty and prominence of second love. This isn’t a tragic film.

Tell us about the director.

Ravi Namburi is like our brother. He has been associated with us for a long time. He worked on Baby and also narrated a web series to us. We are happy to be making Chennai Love Story with Ravi. He is a talented technician and excellent dialogue writer.

Does the film feature any controversial elements?

Whenever path-breaking films like Arjun Reddy, Animal, or Baby are released, they often generate controversy. Chennai Love Story doesn’t contain such controversial content. It is a film based purely on emotional depth.

What will be the ticket prices for Chennai Love Story?

We are not increasing the prices. Our primary target audience is families and youth. We want the film to be watched by everyone. If more people come and watch the film, it gives us the greatest satisfaction.

Satya Dev’s Rao Bahadur is coming to cinemas on July 3. Directed by Venkatesh Maha, the psychological drama is presented by Superstar Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar under GMB Entertainment. A+S Movies and Sri Chakraas Entertainments bankrolled the movie. Ahead of the release, Satya Dev interacted with the media, and here’s the transcript.

Your team is extremely confident about the film. What’s the reason?

It’s because we have already watched the movie. When we started the film, we came up with the tagline ‘Telugu cinema like never before,’ and now Mahesh Babu garu has also made the same remark. Directors who have seen the film so far have also said the same thing. Hence, we are super confident.

What exactly is the film’s genre?

This is a complete psychological drama with elements of magical realism and dark comedy. Showing a metaphor visually is called magical realism. But you might get horror vibes sometimes. You would have seen the visual where tree roots are chasing me. While watching the film, you will clearly understand it.

This is the most challenging character in your career, right?

Yes. So far, my career was described as before Jyothi Lakshmi and after Jyothi Lakshmi. Now, Rao Bahadur has taken that spot. I am very confident the audience will also feel the same way.

What were your references for the Ramappa character?

To be frank, there were no references as such. Ramappa is a mad character. After watching this film, artists will take Ramappa as a reference. While shooting, I felt Ramappa had possessed me. That’s how much I was involved in the character.

What time period is the film set in?

The story spans from 1960 to 1999. In this film, the protagonist is a traveler. He keeps traveling across the country. Once, he visits Bhuvanalayam. The incidents he experiences there will be very exciting.

How well do you think the movie will connect with the audience?

Rao Bahadur’s story will have universal appeal. Everyone can easily understand it, but I can’t reveal what it is now. While watching the movie, the audience will understand why Ramappa is behaving in a certain manner and travel with him.

Nagabandham: The Secret Treasure is an upcoming pan-Indian mythological fantasy adventure thriller that has been generating strong buzz. Starring Virat Karna in the lead role and directed by Abhishek Nama, the film is all set to release on July 3, 2026. Ahead of its release, we caught up with Virat Karna for an interaction, where he spoke about landing the project, preparing for his role, working with the team, and his upcoming films.

How did you become a part of Nagabandham?

After the release of Pedha Kapu 1, I learned that Abhishek Nama garu was looking for an actor who would suit the role of Rudra in Nagabandham. I felt I was the right choice for the character, so I approached him and I liked the story. He liked my performance as well, and that’s how I came on board.

What can audiences expect from Nagabandham?

As you’ve already seen in the teaser and trailer, the film is set against the backdrop of ancient Vishnu temples, a mysterious divine ritual, and forgotten legends. It has plenty of thrilling moments, and we’re confident audiences will enjoy the experience. Everyone associated with the film gave their best, and the producers didn’t compromise on the scale. Now, it’s up to the audience to decide the result.

How did you prepare for the role?

I play Rudra in the film, so I underwent physical training, spent a lot of time in the gym, and learned horse riding to make the character look authentic. At the same time, I wanted to prepare mentally as well. I used to wake up early every morning, perform pooja, and listen to Shiva mantras. It gave me positive energy and helped me stay connected with the character throughout the shoot.

Playing the Nagasadhu was physically challenging. During one of the night schedules in December, I had to perform almost half naked in the cold weather with strong winds blowing. It was extremely uncomfortable, but we completed the scene, and it has turned out really well.

Since the characters are rooted in mythology, what were your references?

I attended acting workshops to prepare for both looks. Chiranjeevi garu and Sr. NTR garu were my biggest inspirations because they portrayed mythological characters so convincingly on screen. Bhagyashri also guided me extensively with the accent, character development, and several other aspects of my performance. I’m grateful to her for all the support. I also gained nearly 20 kg for the role of Rudra. For the Nagasadhu look, applying the makeup took around six hours every day, and removing it took another hour.

How was it working with director Abhishek Nama?

Abhishek Nama garu has a clear vision and knows exactly what he wants from every scene. He also took great care of me during the shoot, especially while filming physically demanding sequences. At one point, I was slightly nervous about the way my character was being presented, but he was always confident in his vision. He approaches everything from the audience’s perspective. I sincerely thank him for believing in me. Making a film on a budget of over Rs. 100 crore with an almost newcomer in the lead is a huge responsibility, and we’re confident the film will receive a positive response.

What did you learn from the result of Pedha Kapu 1?

I genuinely believed Pedha Kapu 1 would work because everyone had put in a lot of effort. Unfortunately, it didn’t turn out the way we expected. That experience taught me that an actor’s responsibility is to stay committed to the role and give his best. The final result is never in our hands. As a newcomer, I was naturally disappointed, but the experience made me stronger and gave me more confidence to move forward.

What can we expect from you next?

I have two exciting projects in the pipeline, and I’ll announce them after the release of Nagabandham. One of them is a superhero film, and that’s all I can reveal at this point.

The upcoming Telugu film Nagabandham: The Secret Treasure, directed by Abhishek Nama, has generated very good buzz with its promotional content. Slated for a July 3 release, the movie features Virat Karrna, Nabha Natesh, and Iswarya Menon in the lead roles. The film is jointly produced by Kishore Annapureddy and Nishitha Nagireddy under the banners of NIK Studios and Abhishek Pictures. Ahead of the release, the producers interacted with the media, and here is the transcript.

How did you become a part of the film?

We successfully ran a software company. We intended to diversify and felt the movie industry had good potential. We heard another story before Nagabandham, and it was supposed to be made with a top hero. But since we were new, the opportunity wasn’t given to us. Ravinder Reddy garu told us about Abhishek Nama garu’s script. That’s how we met Abhishek Nama garu, and we liked his vision. As the story kept developing, our confidence levels increased. Nagabandham’s content made us invest Rs. 110 crores.

Cinema is a risky business, right?

Risk is a part and parcel of every industry. When we established our startup, most of our peers used to go abroad for jobs. We broke that trend. Though we were IIT graduates, we worked hard for four years without any revenue. In the same way, we took a risk in the film industry.

Director Abhishek Nama and hero Virat Karrna are new to the industry. How did you invest so much in them?

We have immense confidence in the content. We wanted to make a larger-than-life mythological film. We watched Devil, and for Nagabandham, Abhishek Nama garu did excellent pre-production work. We believe in his vision. We felt Virat Karrna was the right fit for the protagonist. He underwent a stunning physical transformation, and his dedication is awesome.

Did you watch the final output?

Yes, and we are happy with what we have made. The visuals came out superbly. The movie exceeded our expectations, and every rupee spent is visible on the screen. Nagabandham is a visual spectacle.

What challenges did you face during the production?

We built huge sets for Nagabandham. The costs involved were high, and we also had to employ more staff. Deciding how much of the film should be built through practical sets and how much should rely on visual effects was the biggest challenge we faced.

How are the PAN-Indian promotions going?

We are getting a solid response from every language. Everyone who has seen the visuals is mesmerized. Popular Bollywood analysts told us that the movie will reach great heights if promoted well. We didn’t compromise on the marketing. We are carrying out massive promotions across North India.

Actor Vadde Naveen is making his comeback with Transfer Trimurthulu, a cop action drama. Vadde Naveen himself produced the movie under the Vadde Creations banner, and Vadde Jishnu is the presenter. Kamal Teja Narla is making his directorial debut. The film stars Rashi Singh, Shilpa Tulaskar, Vivek Raghuvanshi, Raghu Babu, Shivannarayana, Vadlamani Srinivas, Jwala Koti, and others in key roles. The movie is slated for release on June 19, and ahead of the release, Vadde Naveen interacted with the media. Here’s the transcript.

What made you pick this story?

The core idea and plot of Transfer Trimurthulu are unique. I liked the concept immensely. It features thrilling elements, but at the same time, the movie remains family-friendly. My character also feels very fresh and different.

You have come out of your comfort zone for Transfer Trimurthulu. Tell us about it.

The way people watch movies has changed a lot now. Making family dramas or love stories is no longer enough. Audiences want to experience those films that offer various elements along with fresh content. Transfer Trimurthulu is one such film that offers a new concept while also remaining a family entertainer.

What made you produce your comeback film?

I have immense faith in the story. I was not completely sure if another producer would share the same level of confidence. It is not like the story would have changed had some other producer backed it, but I truly believed in the content. Hence, I took the call to bankroll it myself.

Will Transfer Trimurthulu have entertainment as well?

There is an ample amount of entertainment in the character of Trimurthulu itself. Again, the film is not a run-of-the-mill commercial entertainer as audiences might expect. I play a constable who fights against problems while working within the system. It took us one year to complete the script. The movie will be largely realistic. Also, it is not a full-fledged investigative thriller. We included fights and songs only where they were necessary to the story.

Has anyone seen the film?

So far, about a hundred members of my family have watched it. The film left them pleasantly surprised. Many of them expected me to make a film that focused primarily on me. However, after seeing the story and content, everyone was genuinely shocked. I strongly believe audiences will also say that I have made a good film.

Legendary director Singeetam Srinivasa Rao is coming up with his most prestigious project, Sing Geetham. The film is produced by Nag Ashwin under the prestigious banners Vyjayanthi Movies and Swapna Cinema. Ayaan, Ahalya Bamroo, and Shalini Kondepudi play key roles in the film, while Rockstar Devi Sri Prasad has composed the music. The teaser and songs have received a positive response, and the film is set for a worldwide theatrical release on June 11. On this occasion, Devi Sri Prasad interacted with the media and shared insights about the film.

How did you feel when you learned that you would be working with Singeetam Srinivasa Rao garu?

I am a huge fan of him. He is a legend. I used to admire him whenever he came to meet my father. Long ago, we planned a film on Jesus with Pawan Kalyan garu, but it didn’t materialize. Around that time, Singeetam garu told me about this idea, and I decided to work on it.

Since Singeetam garu conceived this story long ago, how relevant will it be today?

He never thinks according to trends. His thought process is unique, and no one thinks like him. Even today, Pushpaka Vimanam remains a film that was far ahead of its time. Sing Geetham also carries that kind of relevance.

Is it only a comedy film?

It’s not just a comedy film. Sing Geetham has tremendous emotional depth. Hats off to Singeetam garu. I feel very lucky to be a part of this film.

The dialogues have been turned into songs. Tell us about it.

It was truly a challenging film for me. I read the entire script, and I had to transform every dialogue into music. To work on a film like this, one needs a strong command of the language.

What were the challenges for you?

Most films follow a certain format, but for Sing Geetham, I had to create one. I used to segregate the music into different parts and send them across. Based on the feedback, I made changes and refined the work.

How did you feel after watching the final output?

We all watched the film yesterday at the studio. We were awestruck by Singeetam garu’s vision. We understood how uniquely he thinks. It gave me immense satisfaction.

What kind of experience will the film offer to the audience?

It will offer a completely different experience. Just like the characters in the film, audiences will leave the theatres conversing in a singing style. More importantly, the film will inspire people, as it has been made by a 94-year-old filmmaker.

Mega Power Star Ram Charan’s most-awaited sports action drama Peddi is set for release on June 4. Paid previews are scheduled for tomorrow. The promotional content mesmerized audiences, and the film is surrounded by solid buzz. Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, the movie stars Janhvi Kapoor as the female lead. Produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru of Vriddhi Cinemas, the film is presented by Mythri Movie Makers and Sukumar Writings. Ahead of the release, Buchi Babu Sana interacted with the media, and here is the transcript.
Tell us about the Peddi journey.

My first film, Uppena, was a blockbuster, and I’m coming back after a five-year gap. Generally, such a long gap usually doesn’t happen when a debut film turns out to be a blockbuster, but it happened in my case (laughs). My guru, Sukumar garu, took me to Charan sir, and he liked the script and came on board instantly. After he gave the nod, we completed the shoot in about one and a half years.

Since Peddi is a sports-based film, what kind of care did you take?

Everyone is familiar with cricket, but we took additional care with regard to wrestling. We roped in the trainer who coached Aamir Khan garu for Dangal. We also worked with pehelwans from Telangana. We trained the artists, and Charan sir underwent intense training for about three to four months.

Peddi’s success is so crucial to the industry, right?

The success of a film is equally important for the industry, the director, the hero, and all those associated with the project. But right now, the success of Peddi is more vital to the industry, and the scenario was the same for Uppena too. Back then, there were doubts about whether audiences would return to theatres after COVID-19. People encouraged us, and it became a big hit.

Tell us about Shiva Rajkumar garu, Jagapathi Babu garu, and Divyenndu’s characters.

They were the perfect fit for the roles they have essayed. Shivanna garu will be seen as a guru, and he strives hard to prevent the sport from becoming extinct. The Appalasoori character, played by Jagapathi Babu garu, carries a lot of emotional weight. It is the second most powerful character after the protagonist. Divyenndu’s character will be crazy.

Tell us about AR Rahman garu.

I like Rahman garu a lot, and it has been my long-cherished dream to work with him. I am happy that it happened with Peddi. I have enjoyed working with Rahman garu, and I would love to work with him throughout my career. There are two more songs in the film that we haven’t released yet, and they will be amazing.

A lot is being said about the climax of Peddi. Can you tell us about it?

Presenting a commercial hero in an organic way is very risky. You have to experience it on the big screen. Everyone who has seen the climax has said great things about it.

What can the audience expect from Peddi?

Peddi is a film that can be enjoyed with the family. There will be strong emotions, and the movie will also be commercial. You won’t see Charan sir in the film; you will only see Peddi. Everyone will connect with the Peddi character and his memorable journey.

Did Chiranjeevi garu watch the film?

Not yet. I am eagerly waiting for him to watch the film and share his reaction. Surekha ma’am watched a sequence, and she became very emotional.