Q: Last year you said you were nervous about release. How do you feel this year?
Anil Ravipudi: This time I am much more relaxed. The nervousness has reduced mainly because of Chiranjeevi garu. His positive energy, especially during the pre-release event and the Hook Step song performance, created a very positive vibe and made me feel calm and confident.
Q: The Hook Step song went viral. What is the story behind it?
Anil Ravipudi: Initially we planned a melody song for Chiranjeevi’s introduction. But while shooting, it started raining and the shoot stopped. Chiranjeevi garu felt it was nature’s signal. That moment pushed us to rethink and finally the Hook Step song was created in the last schedule. That became pure mega magic.
Q: How was working with composer Bheems and the choreographers?
Anil Ravipudi: Bheems gave a very fresh tune. Aata Sandeep always wanted to choreograph for Chiranjeevi and he delivered wonderfully. Ramajogayya Sastry gave the word “hook step.” I am happy that local talent is getting such great recognition.
Q: You often work with local technicians. Why?
Anil Ravipudi: Bheems encourages local talent a lot. Our singers, choreographers and technicians all performed brilliantly. I am proud to see them coming into the limelight.
Q: You have a strong Sankranthi record. Does that add pressure?
Anil Ravipudi: Pressure is not good. If content is good, all films will work. My stories are mostly based on human relationships, which families connect with easily.
Q: What emotional element does this film have?
Anil Ravipudi: There is a strong emotional core in this film that you must experience in theatres. The scenes between Chiranjeevi, Nayanthara and the children are very heartwarming. The husband and wife emotional handling is shown in a very new and relatable way.
Q: How did the story come together for Chiranjeevi and Venkatesh?
Anil Ravipudi: I usually get hooked to my first idea. Both Chiranjeevi garu and Venkatesh garu loved the concept and characterization. This story flows along with the character, which felt very refreshing.
Q: What is special about Chiranjeevi’s performance?
Anil Ravipudi: His emotional scenes will take audiences on a time journey. Everyone who admires him will say “wow” after watching the film.
Q: Nayanthara also did promotions. How did that happen?
Anil Ravipudi: I always maintain comfort and honesty with my team. When there is emotional bonding, people naturally support the project. Nayanthara truly believed in this film.
Q: Did you follow Chiranjeevi’s style or create a new one?
Anil Ravipudi: We maintained his mass image while presenting him in a fresh character. There are playful self-satire moments that audiences will enjoy.
Q: How did you balance two big stars?
Anil Ravipudi: Both Chiranjeevi garu and Venkatesh garu gave me full freedom. Their friendship made everything easy. The 18 days of shooting together is unforgettable for me.
Q: Tell us about Venkatesh’s role.
Anil Ravipudi: He plays Venky Gowda, a mining businessman from Karnataka. His role will be very different and surprising.
Q: Do you feel competition during Sankranthi releases?
Anil Ravipudi: If content is good, all films will succeed. I wish success to every film coming this Sankranthi.
Q: How do you take criticism and memes?
Anil Ravipudi: I get hurt, but I remain positive. I smile whether people praise me or criticize me.
Q: Were any scenes removed from the film?
Anil Ravipudi: We removed a small entertainment block because it disturbed the story flow slightly.
Q: How important is budget planning to you?
Anil Ravipudi: I treat every film as if I am the producer. Budget discipline is very important to me.
Q: How did it feel to direct Chiranjeevi?
Anil Ravipudi: I grew up dancing to his songs. Directing him felt like returning to my childhood.
Q: Will this film beat Sankranthi Ki Samaraman?
Anil Ravipudi: That is for the audience to decide. But the hype suggests a big opening.
Q: What is your next project?
Anil Ravipudi: I want to rest for a week or two before thinking about my next film.
Q: When will you work with Nagarjuna?
Anil Ravipudi: I definitely want to work with him. I hope it happens soon.
