Naveen Chandra made his debut with Andala Rakshasi and has been impressing movie-goers with his commendable performances in films like Aravinda Sametha and Evaru. His next film Bhanumathi Ramakrishna is gearing up for a direct OTT release on Jule 3rd. This film starring Naveen Chandra and Saloni Luthra will be releasing on Aha. Here’s what Naveen had to say when we caught up with him.
How was it to stay indoors during the lockdown? Did you learn something new?
I usually don’t prefer a social life and try to be on my own. So, the lockdown didn’t show much effect on me. I spent the lockdown period with my pet dog. Owing to coronavirus outbreak, everyone has developed a hygienic lifestyle and that is a good thing. If we stay more vigilant, we can arrest the spread of any pandemic like coronavirus. This is nature’s way of revamping things and it can be considered as a reboot.
What’s your take on Bhanumathi Ramakrishna skipping a theatrical release and going for a direct OTT release?
Before we started working on the film, we felt it would be a good independent film which could be sent for film festivals. As we started working on it, we felt the film will suit digital audience better. It is a natural and pure love story. When it comes to a theatrical release, audience would expect some extra effects even in a love story. But our film as natural as it can get and we opted for a direct OTT release, after the lockdown.
Your character seems to be very innocent and subdued, how do you think the audience will receive it?
Each and everyone single one of us have an innocent angle. But due to the fast-paced lifestyle we don’t show it out much. Ramakrishna is a soft natured lad who pursues happiness even if his life hits a new low. Even out friend groups we have a person who is always on time and takes everything in a sportive manner. So, Ramakrishna will not only entertain everyone, you can easily relate to his character.
You’ve never played a character like this, did you take any special care while preparing for the same?
No, I did not take any special care while preparing myself to play this role. I took some of my friends who stay happy no matter what and I found the inner Ramakrishna in me. That’s how I got into the skin of the character and starred in the film.
We have seen films like these in the past, how does Bhanumati Ramakrishna offer a new experience?
Usually, our society feels getting married is like settling down. If one doesn’t get married by 30 or 35 years, there is enormous pressure on him from society and family. How does a man like Ramakrishna counter these pressures and search for his life partner? The answer to this question forms our story. I am sure that a film like this was never witnessed by our audience. Many people will relate to Ramakrishna’s character.
You’ve worked with a debutante Srikanth, did he manage to extract the desired output?
Srikanth filmed the story that he had narrated. He did extract the best out of me. While working on the film, I did not see Naveen Chandra, I saw Ramakrishna. I felt this way only twice in my career. The first time was in Andala Rakshasi and the second time is in Bhanumati Ramakrishna.
How did Allu Aravind react after watching the film?
We first sent our story and plot line to Allu Aravind garu. He liked the story and then watched the film. He was thoroughly impressed with what we had done. Not only Aravind garu, a few stalwarts of Telugu cinema, and a few critics watched our film. They were impressed with the film and Allu Aravind garu came forward to give this film a grand release.
How did your Bhanumati, Saloni Luthra perform?
Normally, there is a talk that Vijayawada girls are aggressive. Our Bhanumati, Saloni Luthra plays a Vijayawada girl in the film and she excelled in it.
If you have to say a word about the actors that you have worked with, what would it be?
NTR: It was a mind-blowing experience. Actors like me can learn a lot from him. I am ready to act with him again even if it is just for a single shot.
Trivikram: Super clean soul.
Nani: Full of life, good human.
Dhanush: Multi-talented. I feel he is born to act and tell beautiful stories.
Adivi Sesh: Has a strong grip on scripts
Keerthy Suresh: An actor with great passion. She respects the technicians very much
Regina Cassandra: Talented and wonderful co-star