"Shashtipoorthi is a completely fictional film whose characters can’t exist in real life. The character played by Rajendra Prasad garu is not something you would find in the outside world. To believe in such a story and invest in it is no ordinary thing," says debutant director Pavan Prabha, talking about his upcoming release. Shashtipoorthi will head to theatres on May 30.
Describing his movie as a strong family emotional drama, he predicts that it will stay in the hearts of its audiences for days. "My film is like a nourishing home-cooked meal. The censor board didn’t suggest a single cut for our movie," he informs. Read on this interview for more.
While my family's roots are deeply embedded in music, I found my passion in cinema from a young age. Cinema is a powerful medium for conveying positive values, and it was this conviction that drew me into the industry. I had the opportunity to work in the direction department for a small movie. Before entering the industry, I pursued a Hotel Management degree.
I resolved to make Shashtipoorthi against all odds and challenges. For one, a family drama of this scale takes long schedules and waiting periods. The filming process is fraught with so many difficulties. For another, bringing on board a legend like Maestro Ilaiyaraaja garu was no small feat. I have made this movie at a time when old-aged parents are being seen as a burden. Many parents are being abandoned. The greatness and unconditional love of parents is what my film talks about. Since I was raised in a large joint family, I know the value of family love. The trailer has been very successful, with people talking about its emotions and score.
Making seasoned artists like Rajendra Prasad garu (in the role of a chilled out father) and Archana garu (in the role of a strict mom) for a retake was not easy. I had to exhibit enough clarity of thought and conviction to impress upon them. Rupeysh’s character is layered. Aakanksha Singh plays a traditional Telugu girl and her part is unique.
For the emotional drama Shaṣhṭipoorthi, set in the Godavari region, music was crucial, leading me to seek Ilaiyaraaja sir's expertise. Producer Rupeysh, initially hesitant, fully committed after hearing the story and facilitated the meeting with him. I emphasized the Godavari setting's need for his music. Contrary to popular belief, Ilaiyaraaja sir provided multiple tune options for each song, composing them instantly. He preferred to hear the story without predetermined song placements, creating melodies (like the pallavi) immediately after a situation was described and offering alternatives. Chaitanya Prasad, Rehman, and Keeravani penned the lyrics.
