“No Film Like Sing Geetham Has Been Made Before”: Shalini Kondepudi
Legendary filmmaker Singeetam Srinivasa Rao is gearing up to present one of the most ambitious projects of his illustrious career with Sing Geetham. Produced by acclaimed filmmaker Nag Ashwin under the prestigious banners of Vyjayanthi Movies and Swapna Cinema, the film stars Ayaan, Ahalya Bamroo, and Shalini Kondepudi in pivotal roles, with music composed by Rockstar Devi Sri Prasad.
The teaser and songs released so far have generated considerable excitement among audiences. Set for a worldwide theatrical release on June 11, Sing Geetham promises a cinematic experience unlike anything seen before. During a recent media interaction, actress Shalini Kondepudi shared fascinating insights about the film, her role, and working with the legendary Singeetam Srinivasa Rao.
How did your journey with Sing Geetham begin?
I had previously worked in films like Jayamma Panchayathi, Shubham, and My Dear Donga. Through some industry contacts, I heard about a character with negative shades in Sing Geetham. The moment I learned it was a Singeetam Srinivasa Rao film, I decided I wanted to be a part of it regardless of the role. I attended the audition and received confirmation about a month later.
This is a genre that audiences have never seen before. Everything in the film is musical in nature. Every artist had to possess at least some sense of rhythm and singing ability. We underwent several workshops to prepare for this unique format.
What is the story about? How was it working under Singeetam Srinivasa Rao?
The idea for this story came to Singeetam sir many years ago, but it still feels incredibly relevant today. Every dialogue in the film is musical. Conversations unfold almost like songs.
The recently released song has given audiences a glimpse of the film’s tone. However, the real mystery is why everyone communicates through songs and what lies behind that phenomenon. The answers will be revealed on the big screen.
Singeetam sir personally supervised every aspect of the project. The film has been crafted exactly according to his vision, and working under his direction was truly a privilege.
Is it a fictional story?
Yes. The story unfolds in a fictional village called Kuberapuram. What happens in that village and why everyone speaks through music is something audiences will discover in theatres.
The concept is completely original and has no cinematic reference point. Our only references were the creative visions of Singeetam sir and producer Nag Ashwin. Nag Ashwin’s unique sensibilities are also reflected throughout the film.
In many ways, Sing Geetham can be described as a pioneering musical comedy experience in Indian cinema. Like Singeetam sir’s earlier classics, it offers something refreshingly innovative.
Tell us about your character.
Every character in a Singeetam Srinivasa Rao film has a meaningful purpose, and mine is no exception. I play a powerful antagonist who is determined to achieve what she wants at any cost. She firmly believes that her perspective is the only truth.
The role has several interesting shades and also carries a strong entertainment quotient. It is a crucial character that significantly impacts the narrative. Along with the hero and heroine, my character contributes greatly to the film’s entertainment value. Such roles do not come often, and I feel fortunate to have been offered this opportunity.
What was the most challenging aspect of the film?
Many actors can sing songs, but in this film, we had to sing our dialogues while maintaining the natural flow of speech. That was the biggest challenge.
Normally, a singer’s voice differs while singing and speaking. In Sing Geetham, speaking itself transforms into music. Achieving that balance was a difficult but rewarding process.
Devi Sri Prasad has delivered extraordinary music for the film. He brilliantly transformed spoken words into musical expressions, giving the project tremendous strength and identity.
Personally, I learned a great deal through this film. It is a complete Singeetam-style entertainer, and even as a viewer, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
About the producers?
Vyjayanthi Movies and Swapna Cinema are driven by immense passion for cinema. They are extremely supportive and friendly. A project as experimental as Sing Geetham can only be made by producers who genuinely love cinema.
They backed the film with complete sincerity and conviction. I hope the film becomes a huge success because when innovative films succeed, it encourages more creators to bring fresh ideas to audiences.
You seem to be very selective about your projects.
I am always looking for strong stories and meaningful characters. If I keep receiving such opportunities, I would happily do a film every month (laughs).
What are your upcoming projects?
I wrote My Dear Donga, and my next project will mark my directorial venture. I am also writing the story myself. Since I have a clear vision for the script, I felt it would be best to direct it personally.
It will be a comedy entertainer. Making people laugh is something I genuinely enjoy, and I look forward to bringing that experience to audiences.
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