“Andhra King Thaluka Will Be a Landmark Film in Ram’s Career: Director Mahesh Babu P”
Energetic star Ram Pothineni is gearing up to entertain audiences with his highly awaited, unique entertainer “Andhra King Thaluka.” The film is produced by pan-India banner Mythri Movie Makers and directed by Mahesh Babu P. Promising a high-octane blend of energy, emotion, romance and fan-driven cinematic experience, the movie features Bhagyashree Borse as the leading lady and Kannada superstar Upendra in a powerful role as an on-screen superstar.
Music by Vivek–Mervin has already become a rage, with four songs turning into chartbusters. The trailer too received terrific response, raising expectations sky-high. The film hits theatres on November 27.
Director Mahesh Babu P shared interesting insights in a media interaction.
Why the title “Andhra King Thaluka”?
“There’s a deep meaning behind the title. You’ll understand it fully only when you watch the film. All the promotional content released so far has received extremely positive response.
“The story is set in 2002, when both states (AP and Telangana) were united. That’s why the title was apt. We are releasing it with the same title in Kannada as well.
“Initially, the title was just Andhra King. But while writing a scene, a dialogue asked, ‘Whose thaluka is it?’ and that emotional connection led to Andhra King Thaluka. It defines the hero’s identity.”
Why cast Upendra for the “Andhra King” character?
“I once watched an interview where Rana was talking to Upendra sir. Upendra sir said, ‘I’m more real in my films than in real life.’ That struck me deeply. I immediately felt this is exactly how the character Surya should be.
“Upendra sir has a hardcore fan base. In the character Surya, you’ll see shades of every superstar. After meeting him, I realised what a wonderful human he is.”
You mentioned this is a fan-based biopic. Was there any particular fan who inspired you?
“It wasn’t one person or one incident. Years ago, I watched a film that I personally didn’t like much. But the person sitting next to me connected to every dialogue, every moment. He wasn’t personally related to the hero, yet he was deeply inspired by everything the hero said.
“That emotion struck me. No one had explored such a relationship in depth.
“In South India, fans treat heroes as a part of their life. I saw so many emotions there. Some films are based on fans, yes, but a story like this has never been made before. What I’m telling here is completely unique.”
What was Ram’s reaction when you narrated the story?
“Mythri Movie Makers were excited right from the first narration. Ram sir has already worked with many big directors. I had done just one film. He called and asked if I could narrate the story in 20 minutes.
“I had the full script ready by then, but spent the whole night thinking what to say and what to hold back. When I narrated the whole story, he listened completely. Later Mythri called saying, ‘He okayed it in the very first sitting.’ That made me incredibly happy.”
Why choose Ram as the fan boy?
“Ram is a versatile actor with amazing energy. The character needed enormous intensity, mass appeal, and emotional depth—everything a true fan exhibits.
“Ram sir fit the role perfectly.
“We both worked on the same wavelength. This film is completely different from anything Ram has done before. He stepped out of his comfort zone for this role. His own fans inspired him to perform this way.”
Tell us about Bhagyashree Borse’s character.
“Her character plays a crucial role in the film. It feels like witnessing an entire life journey. Every character—from Murali Sharma, Rao Ramesh, Satya, Rahul Ramakrishna—comes with strong emotional layers.”
Who are you personally a fan of?
“As a child, I admired Pawan Kalyan garu a lot. But that’s not why I chose the title (laughs).
“Later, while working in films, I became a huge admirer of my guru Krishna Vamsi garu. He once told me something profound:
‘You’re not a fan of me. You’re a fan of cinema. Your love for cinema brought you here. I was just a tool. From now on, love cinema itself.’
“That line moved me deeply.”
Upendra said audiences would walk out with their collars up after watching the film.
“He genuinely felt that. Everyone is a fan of someone at some point in life. What we learn from the people we admire is something deep and internal. We’ve explored that aspect in a fresh and powerful way.”
About the music?
“Vivek–Mervin delivered a fantastic album. It brought even more attention to the film.
‘Chinni Gundelo’ is my favourite. I also love ‘Nuvvunte Chalu’. Two more songs by Chandrabose garu are in the film, along with a powerful theme track. The music will be a major highlight and audiences will enjoy it thoroughly.”
Since this film is about fans, did Ram’s fans visit during the shoot?
“During our shoot at Aluminium Factory, fans came in huge numbers. Seeing such crowds, anyone would think some massive event was happening.
“But Ram stayed till 1 a.m. giving photos to each and every fan. He has immense love for his fans. He always speaks highly of them. Honestly, he did this film because of his fans.”
Your experience with Mythri Movie Makers?
“They are passionate producers. They never compromised on anything the story needed. Working with them has been a great experience.”
Ram also wrote lyrics for one of the songs. How was that?
“I didn’t know Ram sir had such talent for writing lyrics. His knowledge of music is incredible. He attends every music sitting. While discussing a tune, he expressed the emotion perfectly through words. I loved it. Later he even wrote the pallavi. It became a major plus for us.”
Upcoming projects?
“I have a few stories in development. We’re discussing them. I’ll start working on them after this film releases.”