Megastar Chiranjeevi’s Mana Shankara Varaprasad Garu is having a tremendous run at the box office. Once again director Anil Ravipudi weaved his magic and audiences are celebrating this family entertainer. Nayanthara played the female lead. As the movie is performing well, director Anil Ravipudi interacted with the media. Here’s the transcript.
What was your thought process before starting the film?
Chiranjeevi garu has a natural sense of timing. I felt it would be wonderful if he could be presented with such a story. We tapped into his strength. That has happened today. Audiences of all generations are enjoying the film immensely.
Did you feel the pressure while working with two legendary actors?
When Chiranjeevi garu and Venkatesh garu are set to appear together, there will naturally be massive expectations. Presenting them in a way that appeals to everyone is a big task. However, the natural friendship between Chiranjeevi garu and Venkatesh garu made my work easier. In theatres, audiences ranging from children to elders are enjoying their combo scenes immensely.
The alcohol scene is getting a massive response. Tell us about it.
In every film of Chiranjeevi garu, there is a peculiar sequence like that. His mannerisms in drinking scenes are very different. That sequence also reveals the connection between him and Venkatesh garu. It worked brilliantly in theatres. Now everyone is making fun reels based on it. However, such things are done in films just for fun, and I request children to stay away from such activities.
You created a record with nine consecutive hits after Rajamouli garu. How careful will you be with your tenth film?
This is a crucial phase for me. I’ve taken a short pause to decide what to do next. Recently, we cracked an idea. From the title announcement itself, it’s going to be a unique journey. The storyline is fixed. Actors are yet to be finalized. We plan to start in June or July. It will be a good entertainer. There’s no need to specially ask if it’s coming next Sankranti (laughs).