“Ghaati Is the Biggest Canvas of My Career” – Krish Jagarlamudi
“Ghaati will be another iconic film in Anushka Shetty’s career. With the largest canvas, audiences will witness a whole new world.”
The much-awaited action drama Ghaati stars Queen Anushka Shetty in the lead, alongside Vikram Prabhu. Directed by visionary filmmaker Krish Jagarlamudi, the film is produced by Rajeev Reddy and Sai Babu Jagarlamudi under the First Frame Entertainment banner, in association with UV Creations. With its striking promotional content, Ghaati has already created massive buzz and is gearing up for a grand worldwide release on September 5.
What inspired you to write a story like Ghaati?
Every film I make is an adventure in itself. In the case of Ghaati, the seed came from writer Dr. Chintakindi Srinivas Rao. He had earlier written the story and dialogues for our web series Arabian Kadali. During our discussions, he narrated the idea of Ghaati, which intrigued me.
On the Andhra–Odisha border, there is a type of cannabis cultivation. A system operates around it, and people who transport it are called Ghaatis. When he described their lives and struggles, it fascinated me. He penned a 30-page story, which I loved and decided to develop further. While scouting locations in the Eastern Ghats, I realized it was an unexplored world with unique lifestyles and cultures. That’s how Ghaati was born.
Was this story conceived with Anushka in mind?
Yes, it was. After Vedam, I always wanted to collaborate with Anushka (Sweety) again. Saroj, her role in Vedam, was iconic, and I wanted to bring her back in a story that felt organic and powerful. When Ghaati came my way, it felt like the perfect fit. The character of Shilavati demanded grace, attitude, and stardom — qualities Anushka naturally embodies.
Is Shilavati’s character fictional?
Completely fictional. Ghaati is not based on any real individual, though it touches upon real issues. Cannabis is a social problem — governments try to curb it with an iron hand, yet it still finds its way into society. For survival, people get dragged into it, but the consequences are devastating.
This film explores themes of identity and survival while blending social commentary with mass entertainment. It is not about glorifying the problem but about presenting the harsh realities through a large-scale commercial action drama.
Why did you choose action as the primary genre?
Because Ghaati’s setting is naturally intense. The characters are raw, the emotions are powerful, and action becomes the most organic way to express them. The emotions and conflicts find their truest expression in the action sequences. On every level — emotions, performances, and locations — this is my biggest canvas yet.
Why Vikram Prabhu as Desiraju?
When I was writing the character of Desiraju, I could only imagine Vikram Prabhu. I studied his filmography and felt he was the perfect fit. Desiraju is a pure, noble leader-like figure. Vikram delivered a phenomenal performance that exceeded expectations.
Chaitanya Rao as the antagonist?
Yes, he plays Kundula Naidu. I had seen him in 30 Weds 20 and thought casting him as a villain would be refreshing. Even while narrating, he slipped into the character’s behavior. What you saw in the trailer is just a glimpse — the full impact will be in the film.
Similarly, Ravindra Vijay as Kashtalu Naidu delivered a powerful act. And yes, choreographer Rajasundaram master also plays a surprising character.
On the visuals and music?
We brought Manoj as the DOP. The Eastern Ghats are breathtaking, but capturing that beauty authentically was the challenge. Manoj has brilliantly brought the soul of those mountains onto the screen.
For music, I turned to Sagar, whom I knew since his days working with Keeravani garu. He has composed for many of my ads before, and I always admired his talent. For Ghaati, I wanted a fresh fusion sound that feels like the musical language of the mountains. His approach is innovative, and audiences will experience a very unique soundscape.
How was it shooting in the Eastern Ghats?
It was an extraordinary experience. We explored unexplored terrains, shot on hilltops, and captured mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets in the most natural way. I’m deeply grateful to Anushka and Vikram Prabhu for their support throughout this challenging shoot.
About Sai Madhav Burra’s dialogues?
Sai Madhav garu has the ability to distill complex thoughts into powerful, straightforward words. His dialogues in Ghaati pierce directly into the heart of the audience.
One example — I had written a line for a song: “Every freedom we enjoy was once someone’s bondage, every message is a lesson born out of mistakes.” Sai Madhav liked it so much, he adapted it into a dialogue. Thanks to my training under Sirivennela Sitaramasastri garu, words flow naturally (smiles).
The producers’ support?
Rajeev Reddy garu, Sai Baba garu, and the UV Creations team — Vicky, Vamsi, Pramod — have been pillars of support. They are passionate about backing unique stories, and they stood firmly behind Ghaati without any compromises.
And of course, Anushka’s strength is well-known. From Arundhati to Bhaagamathie, she has delivered iconic performances. Ghaati has given her another powerful role, and we all believe audiences will embrace it wholeheartedly. The business has been excellent, and we are very happy.
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