Producer Dil Raju: "Game Changer" and "Sankranti ki Vastunnam" are my Comeback Films

Producer Dil Raju: "Game Changer" and "Sankranti ki Vastunnam" are my Comeback Films

Producer Dil Raju, known for producing films like "Game Changer" and "Sankranti ki  Vastunnam," is set to release these two films during the Sankranti ki festival. "Game Changer" will be released on January 10, while "Sankranti ki Vastunnam" will hit theaters on January 14. In a special interaction with the media, he shared several interesting insights.

Dil Raju expressed his excitement, saying, "The pre-release event for 'Game Changer' was a great success in Rajahmundry. The reason for this success is Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan. It was a pleasure to have him attend the event upon our request. It was an incredible event in my life, supported by mega fans, Jana Sena workers, and Pawan Kalyan's admirers. Additionally, the Andhra Pradesh government has granted permissions for benefit shows related to films releasing during Sankranti and allowed ticket rate hikes. Pawan Kalyan personally intervened and spoke with Minister Kandula Durgesh to secure this approval for the three films releasing during Sankranti. I extend my special thanks to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, Pawan Kalyan, Minister Durgesh, and the police department."

He noted the anticipation surrounding Sankranti, saying, "Telugu audiences eagerly await which films will release on what days. Now, audiences from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and even globally are excited as well. The craze and reach of Telugu films are increasing in the North and overseas. 'Game Changer' will be released on a pan-India scale. I'm working under full stress to ensure that we deliver the content of 'Game Changer' to all platforms as quickly as possible. This film is particularly special to me, representing a journey of three and a half years. We began the project with the pooja ceremonies in August 2021 and faced many obstacles along the way. This journey actually started even before COVID-19. I’ve been looking forward to how this journey unfolds for over four and a half years."

Dil Raju recalled the challenges, stating, "We initially planned to release the film on May 21, 2020, but COVID-19 disrupted our plans. The film was eventually released on April 9, 2021. Unfortunately, just four days after the release, COVID-19 cases surged again, leading to theaters shutting down once more. After taking a break, we worked on Pawan Kalyan's re-entry film, 'Vakeel Saab.' My director and I meticulously planned to make this film a blockbuster. However, after the release, the second wave of COVID hit, causing theaters to close again, which was quite disappointing for me."

He shared his experience of finding inspiration during tough times, saying, "After that, I took a month-long trip to the U.S. to recharge. Following that, I worked on a film in Tamil, which helped me gain some recognition. However, I didn’t receive as much recognition in Telugu. Then, I worked on 'Balagam,' which turned out to be a massive hit. It received a perfect score in Telangana, but only around 70-80 in other places. During this time, I took a step back to analyze myself. My grandson called me after the release of 'Family Star' and advised me not to be disappointed, reminding me that I have 'Game Changer' in my hands. That was an emotional moment for me and sparked a change in my mindset. I realized where I needed to draw inspiration from and set new targets."

Dil Raju discussed the challenges he faced in the industry, stating, "I began to question my story judgment and whether I should return to familiar collaborations. I spoke with Shirisha, who mentioned that I was struggling with concentration due to overload. Therefore, I decided to streamline all my work. In this industry, success determines your value."

He emphasized the importance of the upcoming films, saying, "I began to consider which films I currently have and what kind of results I want to achieve. Around this time, Shankar's 'Indian 2' was released, and we all know the outcome of that film. Shankar faced criticism, which prompted me to reflect on our discussions regarding 'Game Changer.' We have been working diligently, knowing how crucial the results are for the hero, the producer, and myself."

On the commercial aspects of "Game Changer," Dil Raju remarked, "This film will be filled with moments that will leave the audience amazed. I had the opportunity to show the 'Jargandi' song during a media interaction in Mumbai, and everyone reacted positively. We invested around 75 crores for the songs, ensuring they will impress the audience with exceptional visual grandeur. The film's runtime is fixed at 2 hours and 43 minutes, and it will keep the audience engaged throughout. I am eagerly waiting for its release. I firmly believe that 'Game Changer' and 'Sankranti ki Vastunnam' will mark my comeback."

Regarding "Sankranti ki Vastunnam," he added, "Everyone is already calling it a super hit. The buzz surrounding it is thanks to Anil Ravipudi. Since he narrated the story, he has put in immense effort to ensure that it achieves the same level of success as 'F2.' Just like how audiences enjoyed 'F2,' we are confident that 'Sankranti ki Vastunnam' will also be a big hit. With both films, I am excited to present full energy to the audience. Telugu audiences elevate our films to a successful level. I am now focusing on carefully planning my upcoming projects."

Dil Raju credited Pawan Kalyan for his newfound energy, stating, "Twelve years ago, when he was at the peak of his career, he ventured into politics. Many, including myself, wondered if it was necessary for him to step into politics with such a strong image. However, seeing his ten-year journey brings a new energy within us. Though he faced challenges in politics, he didn’t give up and returned to films. Recently, when his party won all 21 seats in the elections, it showcased his victory. His journey inspires me to not stop just because I may be failing; I must not miss out on the hard work I've put in."

He concluded with the developments in ticket prices and benefit shows, stating, "There has been clarity on benefit shows and ticket rates for films in Andhra Pradesh. I will soon request the Chief Minister of Telangana regarding this. Ultimately, the final decision lies with the government, and it is my responsibility as a producer."

Dil Raju expressed his sadness over a tragic incident involving two fans who lost their lives in a road accident while returning from the pre-release event. He expressed his condolences, stating, "It's heartbreaking to lose fans in such an incident. I stand by their families and will be providing financial support of 5 lakh rupees each from my end. I can understand the grief that such incidents bring to families."

Regarding his collaboration with Pawan Kalyan on "Vakeel Saab," he mentioned, "I discussed doing a film with Pawan Kalyan, assuring him that it would reach everyone. He placed his trust in my words, and we discussed financial matters and proceeded with the film. I didn’t realize until he mentioned it publicly on such a big stage that the remuneration from that film has supported his Jana Sena Party. It was an emotional moment for me, especially when a Deputy Chief Minister and leader expresses such sentiments publicly."

Dil Raju emphasized the importance of ticket price increases, stating, "I need to request an increase in ticket prices, but it should be done appropriately. Telugu cinema has now reached a global level, which is a point of pride for us. Consequently, the budgets and scope of our films have increased, necessitating that we adapt accordingly."