Sarangapani Jatakam is not a film you’ll forget once the credits roll. It’s a story people will talk about for days.
Indraganti Mohana Krishna
Priyadarshi leads Indraganti’s new comedy 'Sarangapani Jatakam' Releasing April 25
After hits like Gentleman and Sammohanam, acclaimed director Indraganti Mohana Krishna reunites with veteran producer Sivalenka Krishna Prasad for Sarangapani Jatakam. Set to hit screens on April 25 under the banner of Sridevi Movies, the film stars the versatile Priyadarshi in the title role, with Rupa Kodavayur as the female lead. The supporting cast includes Vennela Kishore, Viva Harsha, Avasarala Srinivas, and Sai Srinivas Vadlamani.
The film boasts a solid technical team: PG Vinda behind the camera, Vivek Sagar on music, and Venkatesh K Marthand handling editing. With the trailer already earning a strong response, Indraganti sat down with the media to talk about his vision for the film.
Back to Pure Comedy What Sparked 'Sarangapani Jatakam'?
Indraganti:
There was a time when Telugu cinema would see five or six full-fledged comedies every year. Today, that number has dwindled. Even when a comedy is made, it’s often a few random skits stitched together no real story or characters.
For the past 56 years, I’ve been wanting to make a proper, character-driven comedy. After Yashoda, Sivalenka Krishna Prasad garu suggested we collaborate again. I pitched him this idea, and he instantly liked it.
Around the same time, I watched Priyadarshi’s work in Balagam, Save The Tigers, and Mail. I realized he was perfect for this project. I called him, narrated the story, and he said yes immediately. We finalized everything by November 2023 and went to shoot by March 2024.
What Kind of Film is 'Sarangapani Jatakam'?
Indraganti:
Unlike typical comedies, this film breaks the pattern. Each character is fresh, not just a repeat of the usual comedian roles. It’s a light-hearted, story-driven, fun ride designed to linger in your mind not just make you laugh and forget.
For me, filmmaking often comes with some level of regret maybe something could’ve been shot better, or something could’ve been improved technically. But with Sarangapani Jatakam, I genuinely felt minimal dissatisfaction. Everything came together just the way I envisioned.
The Astrology Angle And Your Personal Beliefs?
Indraganti:
When it comes to astrology, I’m somewhere in the middle. Some predictions made to me have come true; others haven’t.
For instance, before the release of Gentleman in 2016, a friend who casually read palms warned me not to travel alone between May and August. I forgot about it until I met with a serious accident in July.
Similarly, he once predicted, based on my birth chart, that I wouldn’t direct my first film before 32. And he was right.
I did a lot of research for this film. But let me be clear: Sarangapani Jatakam doesn’t ridicule astrology. Instead, it shows the chaos that follows when belief crosses into blind belief. We explored that idea through humor, without sermonizing.
The film respects believers; it questions only when belief turns destructive.
Is Creative Freedom Tougher Today?
Indraganti:
I was careful. There's nothing controversial in the film. The idea is simple: belief should empower you, not wreck your life or others’. If someone still takes offense, that’s beyond our control.
We didn’t mock astrologers. In fact, they’re treated seriously in the film.
Does the Hero Believe in Astrology?
Indraganti:
Yes, the protagonist believes in astrology. But the story isn’t about mocking that. It’s about showing what happens when belief becomes excessive. Astrology is a deep, complex subject—you can't just brush it aside as superstition.
The Teaser Hints at Astrology, The Trailer at Suspense Which is it?
Indraganti:
Sarangapani Jatakam is a crime-comedy, with an astrology backdrop. It’s a family-friendly film—no violence, just lots of humor built around an ordinary man caught in unexpected criminal chaos. You could even call it an “astrological crime comedy” (laughs).
From 'Grahanam' to Now—What’s Changed in 20 Years?
Indraganti:
Audience attention spans have shrunk. Today, there’s a phone between the screen and the viewer. Earlier, when the lights dimmed, the audience was fully present. Now, they’re multitasking.
But fast cuts or flashy visuals aren't the answer. Emotional connection is key. Movies like Premam or Prema Desam weren’t fast-paced, but they succeeded because they struck a chord emotionally.
People no longer just want entertainment—they want experiences. Otherwise, they’ll stay home and watch Malayalam films on OTT.
People Once Called You a Promising Director. Now Some Say You're Struggling. Thoughts?
Indraganti:
Sensibilities evolve. Post-COVID especially, I went through a phase of confusion. V released directly on OTT. Aa Ammayi Gurinchi Meeku Cheppali got delayed and stumbled.
That’s when I realized: my strength is in comedy and emotional storytelling. Not every phase is victorious. Success isn’t a straight line. It’s about adapting and continuing to experiment.
Your Third Film With Sridevi Movies—How Was the Experience?
Indraganti:
This is our third outing together. Sivalenka Krishna Prasad garu has been a pillar of support. I’m proud to say Sarangapani Jatakam turned out exactly how I dreamed it.
Why Should Audiences Watch 'Sarangapani Jatakam'?
Today’s films are dominated by action and violence. Sarangapani Jatakam brings back wholesome, clean comedy—something all generations can enjoy together. It’s a feel-good theatrical experience that promises laughs, heart, and a lot of soul.
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