Hit Machine Anil Ravipudi, known for delivering back-to-back blockbusters, is gearing up to continue his success streak with Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, starring Megastar Chiranjeevi.
In an exclusive interview, Anil revealed that Chiranjeevi was impressed with the story in the very first narration. The director completed the full script along with dialogues in just 45 days, after which the Megastar gave his immediate approval.
“Chiranjeevi garu trusted me completely and gave me full freedom. He did share valuable inputs, but overall, it was a smooth journey. The story and treatment are very contemporary. He initially suggested a salt-and-pepper look, but considering his fitness, I felt it wasn’t necessary,” Anil said.
The team wrapped up the shoot in 80–85 days, except for two days of minor patchwork. Post-production work for the first half is already complete.
Music composer Bheems Ceciroleo has delivered two chartbuster songs.
“When I first heard Meesala Pilla, I loved the tune, but I never expected it to cross 100 million views so quickly. That reception is a huge boost to our confidence. Sasirekha also became a big hit,” Anil added.
He shared interesting details about Chiranjeevi’s introduction song.
“It happens during Sharat Saxena’s birthday party, where the atmosphere is dull. Chiranjeevi’s character lifts the energy with the song. It will surprise Mega fans. Aata Sandeep choreographed it on Chiranjeevi’s recommendation. We’re planning to release it by month-end.”
The film promises to be a complete entertainer with a blend of comedy, action, emotion, and a crime backdrop.
Chiranjeevi plays a national security officer, while Nayanthara plays a girl from a wealthy family. Harshavardhan and Abhinav Gomatam accompany Chiranjeevi’s character throughout the story.
“I made a conscious attempt to showcase Chiranjeevi’s fun side. Sachin Khedekar plays Nayanthara’s father, and Bulli Raju appears in a cameo role,” he revealed.
Adding to the excitement, Venkatesh will appear on screen for nearly 20 minutes, making the festival season even more special for fans.
The film is being released on a table-profit basis, with producers delighted by the strong pre-release business.
“This Sankranthi will be unforgettable. After a long time, audiences will see Chiranjeevi in a wholesome entertainer with superb songs—and Venkatesh’s presence is a bonus. We’re planning aggressive promotions after release,” Anil concluded.
Venu Udugula Sparks Debate Over Razakar Film
Director Venu Udugula, who recently turned producer with the hit film Raju Weds Rambai, is now gearing up for more projects. In a recent interaction with manatelugu.com, Venu shared his views on the film industry, making headlines with his remarks about the movie Razakar.
Venu described Razakar as a propaganda film allegedly pushed forward by the BJP. He stated, “I believe the BJP made Razakar with a political agenda. I do not think the film was made with genuine respect or responsibility toward history.”
His comments sparked widespread debate within film circles. While some agreed with him, others criticized his stance, noting that Razakars did, in fact, commit atrocities against villagers during that period. Notably, Venu admitted he had not actually watched the film, though he expressed issues with certain aspects of it.
Venu has previously faced criticism for films like Virata Parvam, which portrayed Naxalism in a sympathetic light. Known for his leftist/communist ideology, he often voices opposition to films he perceives as pushing political agendas. His recent comments on Razakar are likely to invite further discussion and scrutiny, leaving the audience curious about how he will handle the controversy.
For context, the plot of Razakar revolves around: “In the early days of independence, the people of Telangana, India, work to reclaim their religion and identity in the face of military and political oppression.”