“Sing Geetham Is a Gift to This Generation” – Nag Ashwin
Legendary filmmaker Singeetam Srinivasa Rao is returning to direction after 14 years with his dream project, Sing Geetham. Produced by Nag Ashwin under the prestigious banners of Vyjayanthi Movies and Swapna Cinema, the film features Ayaan, Ahalya Bamroo, and Shalini Kondepudi in key roles, with music composed by Rockstar Devi Sri Prasad.
The teaser and songs released so far have generated significant buzz, and the fantasy-comedy musical is set for a worldwide theatrical release on June 12. Ahead of the release, the makers held a press meet where producer Nag Ashwin shared insights about the film and its unique journey.
“A Film Like This Has Never Been Made Before”
Speaking at the event, Nag Ashwin said, “After 14 years, Singeetam Sir is returning to the director’s chair with Sing Geetham. This is a film unlike anything that has been made anywhere in the world. Over the last year, Devi Sri Prasad, our entire team, and I travelled alongside him, learning how to create a film of this nature. Tomorrow marks the beginning of this film’s life with audiences.”
He revealed that the project was originally conceived nearly four decades ago.
“Singeetam Sir wanted to make this film with Kamal Haasan around 40 years ago, but it couldn’t happen at the time. This is his dream project and the culmination of a 40-year vision. Like many of his works, it is a bold and original experiment. He is a genius filmmaker. Watching Aditya 369 when I was ten years old inspired me immensely, and today, collaborating with him is a dream come true. We hope this film inspires another ten-year-old in the same way.”
“The Story Is Timeless and Universally Relevant”
When asked whether the story would connect with today’s generation, Nag Ashwin responded:
“When Singeetam Sir first narrated the story, he said no one had ever made a film like this before. After working on it, we felt the same. There truly is no comparison. His ideas have always been ahead of their time. Even today, Aditya 369 feels futuristic. He was talking about concepts similar to artificial intelligence decades ago. His stories never age.”
“I First Heard the Story After Mahanati”
Nag Ashwin revealed that he first heard the script after completing Mahanati.
“He has been passionate about this project for years and never gave up on it. His conviction in this idea is extraordinary. This film is proof of how strongly he believes in his creative vision.”
The Viral Chennai Event Moment
Addressing a viral video from a Chennai event where he was seen sitting on the floor after removing his footwear, Nag Ashwin explained with a smile:
“Singeetam Sir was being taken onto the stage in a wheelchair. When I sat down, my shoes were in the way, so I moved them aside and sat on the floor. If I had known someone was recording it, I probably would have sat in a chair instead.”
“Singeetam Sir Is More Gen-Alpha Than Us”
Praising the filmmaker’s creativity, he said:
“Singeetam Sir often feels more advanced than all of us. His ideas are incredibly fresh. The concept of an entire village speaking only through songs because of a curse is something that would feel original no matter when it is made.”
He added that audiences would naturally become immersed in the storytelling.
“The fascinating aspect is that conversations seamlessly transform into songs. Viewers won’t even realize they are watching a musical; they’ll simply be carried along by the narrative. It’s a fantasy-comedy musical packed with entertainment and fun.”
Kamal Haasan’s Association
Asked whether Kamal Haasan was considered for the project, Nag Ashwin revealed:
“Devi Sri Prasad, Kamal Haasan sir, and I sat together and discussed a few ideas related to the film.”
Singeetam’s Contribution to ‘Mahanati’ and ‘Kalki’
Nag Ashwin fondly recalled meeting the veteran filmmaker during Mahanati.
“Just one meeting with him is enough to leave a lifelong impression. Listening to someone who had personally known Savitri garu speak about cinema was an unforgettable experience. Being able to bring his vision to the screen today feels surreal.”
Devi Sri Prasad’s Extraordinary Effort
Speaking about the music, he said:
“Devi Sri Prasad is a musical genius. He understands Telugu deeply and can even write lyrics. He has an incredible ability to transform dialogue into music. Audiences need to experience his work on the big screen. He worked tirelessly until the very last minute and dedicated an enormous amount of time to this film.”
Support From Rajamouli and Trivikram
Nag Ashwin acknowledged the support received from several leading filmmakers.
“We released a video celebrating Singeetam Sir, and many directors watched it. Just as Mahanati received immense love and support from the industry, Sing Geetham is receiving the same encouragement. It reflects the goodwill Singeetam Sir has earned over decades.”
Directing Through Technology
He explained that Singeetam Srinivasa Rao was actively involved throughout production.
“He visited the sets on several occasions and directed remotely on other days through virtual monitoring. He regularly interacted with the cinematographer. We conducted extensive rehearsals beforehand, and Devi Sri Prasad completed much of the music in advance so that we could shoot accordingly.”
“We Made This Out of Love for Cinema”
When asked if the film was a risky venture, Nag Ashwin said:
“If you look at our journey over the last 15 years, we have always made films out of love. Singeetam Sir’s love for cinema is unmatched. We made this film with the hope that people would still be talking about it ten years from now.”
Why There Is No Trailer
Nag Ashwin explained that the makers intentionally avoided releasing a conventional trailer.
“The concept is so unique that cutting a trailer became extremely challenging. It was difficult to showcase the film without revealing its surprises. We believe audiences will have the best experience discovering it directly in theatres.”
A Natural Musical, Not a Forced One
Drawing a comparison with Pushpaka Vimana, he said:
“Many people think Pushpaka Vimana was simply a silent film, but Singeetam Sir didn’t set out to make a silent movie. He created circumstances where characters couldn’t speak. Similarly, Sing Geetham is not a musical for the sake of being a musical. The way music naturally becomes part of the storytelling is what makes it special.”
Lessons Learned From Singeetam Srinivasa Rao
Asked about the biggest lesson he learned from the veteran filmmaker, Nag Ashwin said:
“He never takes himself too seriously. Aditya 369 is my favourite film, and once I approached him about making a sequel. I even offered to produce it. But he simply said, ‘That story is complete. Why revisit it when there are new stories to tell?’ He never thinks about repeating success. He always looks forward.”
“This Film Will Be a Commercial Blockbuster”
Responding to questions about whether younger audiences are familiar with Singeetam’s legacy, Nag Ashwin said:
“During Mahanati, many wondered how much the younger generation knew about Savitri garu. But if a film is good, audiences will watch it regardless of who made it. People connect with great cinema. We firmly believe Sing Geetham will also emerge as a major commercial blockbuster.”
Not Made for OTT
Dismissing suggestions that the film was designed for streaming platforms, he stated:
“Absolutely not. Even during the pandemic, we released Jathi Ratnalu in theatres. We love theatres and we love audiences. We are not the kind of producers who choose OTT simply because it offers more money.”
“A Gift for This Generation”
Concluding the interaction, Nag Ashwin expressed his confidence in the film.
“Sing Geetham is a gift for this generation because nothing like it has ever been made before. After watching it, people will talk about its soul and its heart. I have watched this film nearly a hundred times, and not once did I feel bored. That is why I strongly believe it is going to work and connect with audiences in a big way.”
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