Films Like Shambhala Are Best Experienced in Theatres : Aadi Saikumar
Expectations are running high for Shambhala, starring Aadi Saikumar in the lead role. From its first look to the teaser, trailer, posters, and songs, every piece of content has created a strong buzz among audiences. The film is gearing up for a grand theatrical release on December 25.
Marking his birthday on December 23, Aadi Saikumar interacted with the media and opened up about the film, its making, competition at the box office, and future plans. Excerpts from the interaction:
Shambhala has created solid buzz. How do you see the growing expectations?
Shambhala has shaped up really well. I’m very confident that audiences will enjoy the film. We’ve put in a lot of effort, and I strongly believe viewers will like what we’ve made.
There’s heavy competition on December 25, and you share a close bond with Srikanth garu’s family. How do you look at it?
December 25 is a festive and favourable season for films. We share a very close bond with Srikanth garu’s family. I know Roshan very well—he’s quite active in our cricket team. I genuinely wish his film Champion also turns out to be a big success.
All promotional content from Shambhala has gone viral. Are you feeling confident?
The buzz started right from the release of the first still. The teaser and trailers launched by Dulquer garu, Prabhas garu, and Nani garu received an overwhelming response. There’s strong anticipation, and we’re confident this film will mark a solid success for us.
Action and costumes play a crucial role in this film, right?
Absolutely. Shambhala features some stunning action sequences. Raj Kumar Master rehearsed extensively with us and coordinated closely with director Ugandhar. The climax action sequence is going to be a major highlight. Since the story is set in the 1980s, we paid special attention to costumes and looks, ensuring authenticity throughout.
What can you tell us about the VFX and background score?
There aren’t many VFX shots, but whatever we’ve used was executed with great care. We’re extremely satisfied with the output. Sricharan Pakala’s background score truly surprised us. He constantly refined the themes until the very last moment and delivered brilliant character-specific music. The BGM elevates the film significantly.
How important are songs in Shambhala?
This genre doesn’t really demand many songs. We initially planned a promotional song, but due to time constraints, it didn’t happen. Instead, the background score plays a vital role. After watching the film, audiences will definitely talk about Sricharan Pakala’s music.
What does ‘Shambhala’ mean to you, considering its mythological reference?
No one knows for sure whether Shambhala truly exists, but mythologically it holds great significance. I was excited the moment I heard the title. Interestingly, after Kalki released, the name Shambhala started trending even more, which added to the curiosity.
We heard you suffered an injury during the shoot?
Injuries are part of action filmmaking, no matter how careful you are. I suffered a minor injury during a fire sequence. These things happen while performing intense action scenes.
With OTT gaining popularity, do you think theatre-going has reduced?
Audiences today want a strong cinematic experience, especially for films of this genre. Our producers spared no expense and mounted the film on a grand scale. The promotions have also been very impactful. Films like Shambhala are best enjoyed in theatres for the complete experience.
Your mother’s dialogue at the event went viral. What was your reaction?
I share a very close bond with my mother. She’s never spoken like that at home, so even I was genuinely shocked when she delivered that dialogue at the event.
How was your journey with director Ugandhar?
Ugandhar is extremely passionate about cinema. I really liked his first film. He worked tirelessly on this story and translated his vision perfectly onto the screen. I strongly believe he’ll grow into a big director in the future.
How supportive were the producers?
The producers made Shambhala with immense passion. There was no compromise at any stage. They spent beyond what my current market usually commands and backed the film with strong promotions. We’re also planning to release the film in Hindi—after the Telugu release and positive response, we’ll begin Hindi promotions.
Did you ever consider postponing the release due to competition?
Honestly, I didn’t find a better date than December 25. The premieres are already getting a good response. If positive talk comes from them, the film will pick up right from day one, even though the competition is tough.
How different is your character from real life? Are you superstitious?
I’m not overly superstitious. I follow a few small sentiments practiced at home, but that’s about it.
What were the biggest challenges during the shoot?
Most of the film was shot during night schedules in extremely cold conditions. The entire climax was filmed at night. Despite the difficulties, everyone worked together with great dedication.
Tell us about the characters, especially the female lead.
All characters in Shambhala are strongly written. Archana’s character travels along with me throughout the story, and her role will definitely leave an impression on the audience.
Will there be a Shambhala Part 2?
If the audience makes Shambhala a hit, we’ll definitely plan Part 2 (laughs).
What are your upcoming projects?
I’ve completed Sub Inspector Ugandhar for ETV Win. It has turned out very well, and we’ll be bringing it to audiences very soon.
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