“Eesha” Will Shock Audiences, Says Director Srinivas Manne
Director Srinivas Manne, who once impressed audiences with Katha starring Genelia — a performance that earned her a Nandi Award — returns after a long gap with his latest film, Eesha. The horror thriller is backed by successful producers Bunny Vaas and Vamsi Nandipati, known for cult hits like Little Hearts and Raju Weds Rambai. Eesha is set for a theatrical release on December 12 under the banners of Vamsi Nandipati Entertainments and Bunny Vaas Works, with Hem Venkateswara Rao producing and K.L. Damodar Prasad presenting.
Featuring Akhil Raj and Trigun in lead roles, Hebah Patel as the female lead, and Siri Hanumanth, Babloo, and Prithviraj in key roles, the film blends horror with emotional, philosophical, and supernatural layers.
As part of the film’s promotions, director Srinivas Manne interacted with journalists and shared insights on his return, the making of Eesha, and why this film is unlike any other horror project in Telugu cinema.
On His Long Break After Katha
“Katha earned me good respect. Genelia even received the Nandi Award for Best Actress for it. Although the film wasn’t a commercial blockbuster, it was appreciated for its content,” he said.
“The gap in my career was due to personal reasons. With the support of Damodar Prasad, who has always believed in me, I was able to take up Eesha.”
Keeping Up with Changing Cinema Trends
When asked whether he updated himself during his break, Srinivas replied:
“Cinema is my dream, so I always stay updated. I’ve developed several scripts during this period. I regularly watch Korean and Hollywood films. Technology has advanced so much—lighting, sound design, everything. A strong story can still save a film, but technical quality is also very crucial. I believe everything in life is predetermined; we just don’t know the destination. Our journey matters.”
What Makes Eesha Different from Other Horror Films
“This film combines horror with layers of life, death, divinity, creation, and balance. These concepts run throughout the story,” he explained.
“We focused on every technical detail—makeup, costumes, lighting, sound—because they play a major part in capturing the film’s mood and intensity.”
On How Scary the Film Really Is
“There are several shocking moments. We didn’t add horror just for the sake of it, but yes, audiences will be frightened,” he warned.
“The censor board found it extremely scary but appreciated the strong content. People with weak hearts should avoid it—the story demanded this intensity.”
Confidence in the Film’s Success
“Horror has its own dedicated audience. We trust the vision of Bunny Vaas and Vamsi Nandipati, and the way they’re taking this film forward.”
Themes Explored in the Film
“The film dives into friendship, human emotions, and philosophy. It addresses superstitions and spirits. Until something happens to us, we call it superstition; when it happens, we believe it. That’s what the film reflects.
If spirits didn’t exist, the word wouldn’t exist. Like good and evil, spirits are part of creation.”
Do Spirits Really Exist?
“You will know after watching the film,” he said with a smile. “The audience will leave shocked.”
Can Children Watch the Film?
“Kids these days watch Korean horror films. They’ll enjoy this film too.”
Impact of Raju Weds Rambai’s Success
“The success of Raju Weds Rambai is a big advantage for us. Not just Akhil—every character in this film will entertain audiences.”
Future Plans
“I want to work across different genres. I already have several scripts ready.”
Read Also: Raju Weds Rambai Review : Predictable Drama, Powerful Ending