It’s been nearly 14 years since Puri Jagannadh made his debut as a director in Telugu cinema and over the years, he has had his share of ups and downs. While films like Badri, Pokiri and Businessman turned out to be massive hits, Puri Jagannadh has had to struggle on several occasions. Despite all this, the ace director hasn’t left his trademark style when it comes to writing or directing his films.

Talking to a leading Telugu newspaper, he revealed, “I was hugely influenced by the likes of Osho, RGV, Sri Sri, Chalam and Muppala Ranganayakamma. Everything I have learnt through their books or interacting with them has turned me in to a rebel of sorts. In terms of filmmaking, I would say that Mani Ratnam’s Nayakudu, starring Kamal Haasan, changed my life forever. Although I saw the film only twice, I remember each and every scene quite well. Kamal Haasan plays an anti-hero; however, all of us sympathized with him throughout the film. That film is the reason why the heroes and other characters in my films are so strong.”

Puri Jagannadh’s upcoming film, Heart Attack, starring Nithin and Adah Sharma, is gearing up for release on January 31. He himself has directed and produced the film under Puri Touring Talkies banner. Anup Rubens has scored the music.

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