Rana, your name is often associated with quality cinema. How do you respond to such compliments?
It’s very nice to hear that. Our goal has always been to tell good stories and bring new voices to the audience. I feel that storytelling has remained central to everything I do, whether it’s acting, producing, or even in my business ventures. I believe the audience looks for authentic stories, and that’s exactly what we aim to deliver.
You produced Kaantha, an indie film that didn’t get as much recognition as expected. Looking back, what do you think about its reception?
We knew from the beginning that Kaantha would be a bold experiment. Our goal was to push the boundaries of independent cinema and show that mainstream actors can also be part of such projects. While we didn’t achieve the perfect balance between indie and mainstream audiences, the experience was valuable, and we will keep pushing for more such films.
There’s a perception that family entertainers are becoming rare. Do you think established actors can still lead grounded, realistic family dramas?
Family dramas in Telugu cinema have experienced a surge, especially during festivals like Sankranti. It’s clear that family stories, like father-son relationships, will always resonate with the audience. Family drama films, even if not quirky or edgy, are timeless, and I believe they will always have a strong presence in Indian cinema.
What inspired you and your team to create Loca Loka, a global tequila brand?
The idea came about a couple of years ago when a group of us, including Anirudh and Harsha, decided to venture into the tequila business. At first, it seemed like a crazy idea, especially aiming for a global market, but we made it happen. We began in places like the US and Canada, and it was a surprise to win awards like gold and silver at the California Wine and Spirits Awards. It’s been an incredible journey for us, making a global product with an Indian touch.
You, Anirudh, and Harsha come from different backgrounds. How did the collaboration for Loca Loka come together?
Harsha and I have worked together in business before, and Anirudh and I have known each other for years through the film industry. Sometimes, all it takes is a bunch of crazy people agreeing to a crazy idea, and that’s exactly what happened. Harsha came to me because I was up for it, and I went to Anirudh, and just like that, the collaboration fell into place.
You made a cameo in Parasakthi (2026). How was that experience?
It was a brief but significant role. I had the opportunity to work with director Sudha Kongara and the talented cast of Parasakthi, including Sivakarthikeyan and Ravi Mohan. It’s always a pleasure to be part of interesting projects like that, even in a short role.
You’ve had a busy career in both films and business. How do you balance both?
It’s all about managing your time well and following your passion. Acting and producing films is something I’ve always loved, but my interest in tech and business also keeps me excited. It’s about finding that balance where you can pursue your passions in different areas while staying grounded in what excites you.
Srikanth N Reddy made popular short films and worked as writer for films like Dohchay and Tuntari. Now, he is debuting as director with Panja Vaisshnav Tej and Sreeleela statter Aadikeshava. Suryadevara Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya are producing the film on Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinema, respectively.
The young director has interacted with press representatives prior to the release on 24th November, 2023 worldwide. Here are excerpts from his candid conversation.
Tamannaah Bhatia makes her Cannes debut this year. She talks about the lessons she’s learned through her career, the difference between an actor and a heroine and how the cinematic perceptions of women have changed over time:
I read that you started working at 15, which is a very tender age to enter a tough business. What did you learn and how did that experience shape you t
You are both a producer and an actress. When did the idea of coming to direction come up?
I’ve always been interested in direction. Since childhood, I have been crazy about films. I started with learning Andhra dance, then moved to Kuchipudi. My exposure to acting, music, and literature started early. I went to the U.S. for acting classes and later did a short filmmaking course. I realized direct
How did it feel to act with Shivaji again after nearly 20 years? Laya: It has been almost 20 years since we worked together. Initially, I thought it was a family drama, but when I learned it was an out-and-out comedy, I was thrilled. Comedy is my favorite genre, and the film has an interesting mix of humor, twists, and thrilling elements. It’s a dark comedy crime thriller, and I felt a unique vibe when I first heard the story. What is your role like in Sampraadayini Suppini Suddhapusani? Laya: I
Interviewer: You’re known for your strong performances in KGF and Hit 3. How did it feel to take on a romantic drama like Telusu Kada?
Srinidhi Shetty: I’m very happy and excited. My previous films had intense, action-driven stories. Telusu Kada is completely different — it’s light-hearted, emotional, and full of warmth. I&rsqu
What was your experience like working on Black, White and Gray?
It was a deep and layered role. I had to understand why my character made certain choices and really get into her emotional space.
Were you comfortable performing bold scenes in the show?
Yes, the scenes were not vulgar and were justified. We had intimacy workshops, clear communication, and an intimacy coordinator, which made the process safe and respectful.
How did Psyche Siddharth come to you and what attracted you to the role? After Narthanasala, I took a break for almost two years. During that time, I was thinking about roles that could challenge me. A friend connected to Varun narrated the story while we were on a walk. The character of a divorced woman raising a child felt new and powerful. I had never played such a role before and it immediately caught my attention. You mentioned it is a strong female role. What makes it special for you? I pl
You are one of the busiest actresses in Telugu cinema right now. How does it feel? It feels wonderful. After Virupaksha, I received several offers but I am very selective about what I choose. I signed Bimbisara, Virupaksha, Sir, and Bheemla Nayak around the same period, though they released at different times. Later I signed Swayambhu, Naari Naari, and then Akhanda 2. After that, I worked in Puri sir’s film. I always choose stories based on content and how much it connects with audiences. How di
What inspired you to create 'Court'?
The inspiration came from real-life cases I researched about the POCSO Act. After hearing about an incident that shocked me, I explored similar cases in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The sheer number of cases inspired me to tell a story that highlights these social issues. Though the film is fictional, it's deeply influenced by real-life events.
Why did you decide to blend a love story with a courtroom
Veteran and versatile actress Varalaxmi Sarathkumar is keenly awaiting the release of her upcoming film Sabari which is slated for release on the 3rd of May. The film is now being actively promoted by Varalaxmi and here is what she has to say about Sabari which is directed by Anil Katz and produced by Mahendra Nath Kondla.
About Sabari, Varalaxmi said she first heard the story and liked it very much so gave the green signal. She said the role that she plays in Sabari is unlike anyth
