Sri Chidambaram Garu is a gentle emotional journey that reminds us to love ourselves first, says debut director Vinay Ratnam
Produced by Chinta Vineesh Reddy and Chinta Gopala Krishna Reddy under the Sri Chakras Entertainment banner, Sri Chidambaram Garu is presented by Mrs. Chinta Varalakshmi, with Chinta Rajasekhar Reddy as co-producer. The film stars Vamsi Thummala and Sandhya Vasishta in lead roles and marks the theatrical debut of director Vinay Ratnam. Scheduled for release on February 6, the film recently completed media interactions, where Vinay Ratnam shared insights into the project.
What inspired the story of Sri Chidambaram Garu?
This film is centered on people who live with insecurity and an inferiority complex, constantly comparing themselves with others and losing confidence in the process. I felt many people silently go through this struggle, and the current time felt right to narrate such a sensitive and relatable story with emotional honesty.
What is the core theme of the film?
The film conveys a simple yet powerful message before loving anyone else, one must first learn to love oneself. When you look at yourself in the mirror, you should believe that you are enough. That belief is the heart of this story.
Could you share your background and how this project began?
I am from Rajahmundry and have directed around 25 short films. One of my short films, presented by Niharika Konidela, was made for film festivals. Sri Chidambaram Garu is my first theatrical venture. We initially began this project through crowdfunding, but later producer Chinta Gopala Krishna Reddy connected with the story and came on board to produce the film.
How did you finalize the cast?
The character of Chidambaram required performance in long, single takes, which is challenging. From the beginning, I felt Vamsi was the perfect fit. The character also has a slow-blinking eye, which demanded intense preparation. For other roles, we conducted auditions in East Godavari and Rajahmundry, focusing on natural acting. Most of the cast was selected after workshops, and many are local talents.
What kind of response did the premieres receive?
The feedback has been very encouraging. Viewers felt the film was fresh and honest. Some even compared it to films like C/o Kancharapalem and Pelli Choopulu. Since I admire and have learned from those films, such comparisons make me genuinely happy.
Does the film focus on entertainment?
This is not a typical commercial entertainer. It is primarily an emotional experience. That said, the film does have clean, subtle humor that never feels forced or offensive.
Are the characters inspired by real people?
Yes. I have seen several friends who live with insecurities, and they influenced this story. Even now, I have a friend named Jayanth living in the US, who keeps to himself and lives quietly. Observing such personalities inspired the emotional depth of this character.
How important is music to this film?
Music plays a vital role in the narrative. There are five songs in total, including one sung by Keeravani. Every song helps move the story forward, and the background score adds strong emotional support.
Many feel the visuals resemble Kerala. Where was the film shot?
We completed the shoot in 32 days across various locations in Andhra Pradesh, despite limited transport facilities. When people say it looks like Kerala, I take it as a compliment. Andhra Pradesh has stunning locations we just need to showcase them properly.
Is there a risk of hurting sentiments due to the hero’s characterization?
Not at all. This film helped me understand sensitivity in storytelling. No one’s sentiments will be hurt; instead, audiences will feel emotionally fulfilled after watching the film.
What is the meaning behind the title Sri Chidambaram Garu?
In East Godavari, people sometimes mock individuals with a slow eye by calling them Chidambaram. In the film, the protagonist is repeatedly addressed that way, to the extent that people forget his real name. As the story progresses and audiences understand his journey, that mockery turns into respect. That’s why we added dignity to the title and named it Sri Chidambaram Garu after watching the final cut.
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