‘I Wish To Make Sequel For Akhanda’

Producer Miryala Ravinder Reddy produced three films so far and two out of them were directed by Boyapati Sreenu. His last production Akhanda starring Nata Simham Nandamuri Balakrishna is already a massive blockbuster. On the occasion of his birthday (December 29th), the producer interacted with media today. Here are excerpts.

What do you say about ticket pricing in Andhra Pradesh?
I had more pressure than anybody in the industry. Akhanda was completed long ago and it got delayed due to covid. Thankfully, the government didn’t give any troubles to us. When negotiations are underway, I can’t talk about ticket rates now. I hope, the problem will be resolved at the earliest.

Did you feel it risky spending such high budget on the movie?
My first meeting with Boyapati regarding this movie was back in 2018. We also discussed about budget of the movie then. Although budget of the movie was increased, I always had the confidence on the script and the combination of Balakrishna and Boyapati Sreenu.

Akhanda did remarkably well in overseas, what do you say about it?
Yes, mass movies don’t have strong market in overseas. But Akhanda performed well because of the story. Balakrishna appeared like Lord Shiva in second character and that magic worked well for Akhanda.

Did Boyapati narrate entire script to you?
Boyapati narrated entire script of the movie from first scene to the end scene. Balakrishna and Boyapati together delivered two blockbusters. I believe in stardom. A hero can comeback with a single hit, though he had 10 flops earlier. That’s the advantage of the stardom. Although both the star and the director were silent, I expressed my confidence from the beginning. I knew that it will become a trendsetting movie, whenever it releases. We made it as a visual wonder. I also believed that all the buyers will be safe in just 4 days.

Do you have plans to work again with Boyapati, perhaps for Akhanda remake?
I would love to work again with Boyapati. But, that’s not in my hands. I also wish to make sequel for Akhanda.

Do you have any plans of remaking Akhanda in remake?
Akhanda is a universal story. In fact, it will connect more to North audience. Ajay Devgn will be perfect choice for the Hindi version. Akshay Kumar will be other choice.

Who’s the first choice to score music for the film?
Thaman is the first choice and he only asked us little extra time for better outcome. As promised, he delivered much better. He played one of the key roles in success of the movie.

How Balakrishna used to be on sets?
I usually sit before monitor. Balakrishna also sits there. We used to talk and he never behaved like a star hero. He’s very simple and humble person. He is completely a different man in front of camera.

Did you sign any star heroes for your next?
I’m a kind of person who listens to scripts and then approach heroes. My next film will be with a new actor. Director will be revealed soon. The movie will begin from March in 2022.