Narappa Team Shot Non-stop Without Breaks: Srikanth Addala

By Sarah Justin

If you love romantic movies and Varun Sandesh's 'Kotha Bangaru Lokam' is among your favourites, then you must know who Srikanth Addala is and his next project, right? Currently, the director is busy promoting his upcoming film 'Narappa' starring Victory Venkatesh in the lead role. Ahead of the film's release on the OTT platform, Addala had a media interaction at the Rama Naidu studios in Hyderabad. 

In an exclusive interview with  Sakshipost, the Narappa director revealed some interesting facts about the film. It is worth mentioning here after directing movies like Mahesh Babu, Venkatesh's Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu, Srikanth Addala earned the title 'family entertainer'.

When asked what made him pick a different genre, Srikanth said, "I felt like exploring new genres because recreating is a really a tough job. We planned to do the movie two years ago and it happened now. The movie is soon hitting your screens.

How did you land the chance to director the film?

I made a casual visit to Venkatesh garu's place. He mentioned his plans to remake Asuran. So, I asked if he has finalised any director for the remake and offered to direct the film if required. And that's how the film landed in my kitty.

What are the changes you made to Narappa?

One thing is for sure. The Mass angle will definitely come out. I made a few changes to suit our nativity. I Hope, the audience will like it.

How much time did it take for the team to complete Narappa and what was your work experience with Venkatesh like?

Honestly, Venkatesh was relentlessly working for the movie. He shot continuously for almost two months. It was really hectic. But he never complained about it. The entire team was desperately wanting to take leave and they were like please give us a break. But amid pandemic we had to finish soon and were able to complete most of the shoot in about two months.

Are you happy with Narappa OTT release?

I'm disappointed with the OTT release, as it happened accidentally. However, we made the film with an aim to release it in theatres. Unfortunately, things are not in our hands. The pandemic hass forced everybody indoors. We were left with no choice but to opt for digital release. I'm pretty confident about the film because Venkatesh has aced a few scenes. When you watch the movie, you would know that he has lived in the character.

Why did you think Priyamani was right for the role?

While watching the Tamil film Asuran, Priyamani popped up in my brain and I felt she is the perfect jodi for Venkatesh garu.

What are your upcoming projects?

I have a string of films in the pipeline and shall make an official announcement, shortly.  (Srikanth Addala's next film will be produced by Geetha Arts, but the lead actor is yet to be confirmed. )

Narappa is the Telugu remake of the Tamil blockbuster Asuran which starred Dhanush. The film stars Venkatesh Daggubati, Priyamani, Kar6thik Rathnam, Vasishta Simha in key roles. The film has been bankrolled by Kalaippuli S. Thanu and D. Suresh Babu. The film will start streaming on the OTT platform Amazon Prime Video from tomorrow. 

Stay tuned to Sakshipost for the review of Venky's Narappa.