9 PM | ETV Telugu News | 1st January “2026

Director Anil Ravipudi, known for completing film shoots in record time, has made Sankranthi a lucky season for his new releases. Over the past few years, he has consistently delivered hit movies, and this year was no exception with “Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu”, which emerged as a Sankranthi success.

Following this success, there have been reports of a potential collaboration between Anil Ravipudi and Pawan Kalyan. However, the director recently clarified his approach and plans regarding the project.

Unlike many filmmakers who adapt scripts to suit actors, Anil Ravipudi follows a “Story First, Hero Next” approach. For his upcoming project, he has already finalized the storyline and will select the actor once the script is locked. Speaking about a film with Pawan Kalyan, Anil revealed that he would be thrilled to work with the actor, provided Pawan’s dates are available. The story is ready, and the director plans to move forward based on the actor’s schedule.

Anil is aiming to start filming in June or July this year, with a grand release planned for Sankranthi 2027. Despite Pawan Kalyan currently being selective with his projects, Anil is confident that a collaboration could be completed quickly and deliver another blockbuster, meeting fan expectations.