Thandel has come out extraordinarily, and you will see a new Naga Chaitanya.”- Devi Sri Prasad
The highly anticipated film Thandel, starring Yuva Samrat Akkineni Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi, is directed by Chandoo Mondeti and produced by Bunny Vasu under the Geetha Arts banner, presented by mega-producer Allu Aravind. The film is set for a grand worldwide release on February 7. The promotional content released so far has created a massive buzz, and the songs composed by Rockstar Devi Sri Prasad (DSP) have become chartbuster hits, trending at the top.
The songs of ‘Thandel’ have become massive hits. How do you feel about the response?
I’m extremely happy! After a long time, a love story is coming to the audience, and the response has been tremendous. As soon as Bujjithalli was released, it received an overwhelming reaction. Director Sukumar told me that this song would be in my all-time top five. Similarly, Shivuni Song and Haaye Lo have also been received exceptionally well by the audience. People are really enjoying the music.
Your name is synonymous with love stories. How does that feel?
From the early days of my career, I’ve worked on love stories like Nuvvu Vastavante Nenu Vaddantana, Varsham, Arya, and 100% Love, as well as commercial films like Shankar Dada and Mass. I feel blessed that people believe I can deliver music for all genres, especially love stories. Love stories are evergreen; everyone can relate to them, and romantic songs tend to have a long-lasting impact.
Bunny (producer Bunny Vasu) still has a wish—he wants to make a love story with six beautiful love songs. Recently, he even wrote it down on a piece of paper, saying, “Let’s make a film like that!” (laughs). Even before Thandel was finalized, Bunny told Allu Aravind uncle that DSP should compose the music for the film.
Your previous film, ‘Uppena,’ was also set against a seaside backdrop, just like ‘Thandel.’ How is this story different?
I always wanted to compose music for a fully rustic folk story, and that wish came true with Rangasthalam. The songs in that film had strong folk roots. Then came Uppena, which had a folk touch but with a blend of Sufi and classical music. However, the stories of Uppena and Thandel are completely different.
Thandel is a pure love story based on real incidents about Indian fishermen trapped at the Pakistan border. You’ve already heard three songs, and the upcoming ones will be equally amazing. The background score is also fresh and unique.
What aspects of ‘Thandel’ attracted you the most?
Director Chandoo Mondeti has a great vision and has presented the film exceptionally well. Naga Chaitanya worked incredibly hard for this role—his transformation and performance will surprise everyone. The emotional depth in his acting is remarkable, and audiences will see a new side of him.
Sai Pallavi is an extraordinary actress. Her performance in this film is next level—she even expresses emotions through her eyes! The chemistry between Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi is fantastic. There’s a sequence in the second half that is simply breathtaking; it must be experienced on the big screen.
This film also has some great action sequences, including boat chase scenes. The fight sequences have been shot brilliantly. Producers Bunny Vasu and Allu Aravind have made the film on a grand scale, and the entire team is highly confident that it will be a massive success.
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How did the ‘Bujjithalli’ song come to life?
Some tunes just come naturally when you hear a story. The Bujjithalli tune was one such spontaneous creation. I was humming and playing it on the piano when Chandoo Mondeti shot a video of it and posted it. That very tune ended up in the song. I always feel that inserting a girl’s name in a song makes it more beautiful, and Bujjithalli found the perfect placement in the lyrics. It went viral immediately after its release, which made me very happy.
You’ve had a long career. How do you see this journey?
It’s been a beautiful journey! I started my career at a very young age and have grown up listening to my own music (laughs). I’ve had the opportunity to compose for films of all genres, and I consider myself lucky that my music appeals to audiences of all age groups.
My live shows bring together people from all walks of life. Performing live gives me an immense boost of energy—it’s like the strength of a thousand elephants! The audience’s love and support inspire me to create even better music.
Any upcoming projects?
Kubera is going to be very interesting! It’s a different kind of film, and I’m really excited about it.
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