Producer Chinta Gopalakrishna Reddy on Sri Chidambaram Garu

 Interview: Producer Chinta Gopalakrishna Reddy on Sri Chidambaram Garu

Q: What inspired you to come on board as the producer for Sri Chidambaram Garu?

Our main intention was to encourage new talent. This project began almost four years ago as a crowd-funded initiative. The team worked with immense dedication and passion. After seeing their commitment, my daughter introduced the project to me. The sincerity in their approach and the strength of the story convinced us that this film deserved to be made on a larger scale.

Q: How would you describe Sri Chidambaram Garu as a film?

It is a complete feel-good film. There are no loud fights or unnecessary action sequences. The movie offers a calm and pleasant experience. Today, audiences come to theatres to relax, and this film gives them exactly thatpeaceful, soothing entertainment.

Q: The visuals in the trailer look very natural. Can you tell us about the shooting experience?

We set up our production office in Rajahmundry and completed the shoot in two schedules35 days in the Maredumilli region and 10 days in Rajahmundry. We were warned about heavy rains after May, but surprisingly, while surrounding areas experienced rainfall, our locations remained dry. The natural beauty captured in the film is from our own state. We didn’t need to travel elsewhere. The local people supported us wholeheartedly, and the houses seen in the trailer are real homes where people actually live.

Q: How strong are the lead characters in the film?

The hero and heroine characters are very well-written and deeply connected to the story. Their emotional journey is the backbone of the film. Audiences will relate to them easily.

Q: Music seems to be getting a good response already. How important is music in this film?

Music plays a very important role. For our generation, good songs were one of the biggest reasons to watch films in theatres. This film has a very pleasant and soothing audio album, and the response so far has been very encouraging.

Q: Why was the title changed from Chidambaram to Sri Chidambaram Garu?

We felt the title needed more dignity and respect. Adding ‘Sri’ brought grace and emotional depth to the title, which perfectly matches the soul of the film.

Q: What can you tell us about the film’s release and distribution plans?

The film is being distributed by Vamsi Nandipati. We have not sold the OTT rights yet. Generally, OTT platforms hesitate when it comes to films made by newcomers. We believe strongly in our content and decided to approach OTT platforms after the theatrical release. Initially, we didn’t plan an overseas release, but due to strong interest from abroad, the film will now release in the US, UK, and other countries as well.

Q: How has the response been so far from industry screenings?

The feedback from recent celebrity shows has been very positive. That gives us a lot of confidence and happiness as producers.

Q: With multiple films releasing the same week, how confident are you about audience support?

We sincerely hope all films releasing this week receive audience support. Our film offers two hours of quality entertainment at an affordable ticket price of ₹99. It is made with strong production values and a story that feels like a hidden gem.

Q: What is your philosophy as a producer in today’s cinema environment?

If producers choose good content and manage projects responsibly, losses can be avoided. Many films today are stuck waiting for OTT deals. If we had done the same, this film would have been delayed indefinitely. Recovering investments helps us create more films. I admire filmmakers like K. Viswanath garu and aspire to make meaningful cinema. I also ensure that no one associated with my films suffers lossesif there is any, I will personally bear it.

Q: What’s next from Sri Chakras Entertainment?

We are currently working on a major project titled Rao Bahadur and another film with a new director. Very soon, we will also announce the sequel to Sri Chidambaram Garu.