‘Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu’ Is a Perfect Family Entertainer— Anil Ravipudi
Megastar Chiranjeevi teams up with hit-maker Anil Ravipudi for a wholesome family entertainer titled Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, promising full-on entertainment for audiences of all ages. Adding to the excitement, Victory Venkatesh plays a crucial role in the film.
Produced by Sahu Garapati and Sushmita Konidela under the banners of Shine Screens and Gold Box Entertainments, with Archana presenting the film, the movie stars Nayanthara as the female lead. Promotions have been receiving an overwhelming response, with the trailer and songs significantly boosting expectations. The film is set for a grand worldwide release on January 12 as a Sankranthi festive treat.
On this occasion, director Anil Ravipudi interacted with the media and shared interesting insights about the film.
Last year you mentioned feeling nervous during release time. How do you feel this year?
This time I feel much more relaxed. The nervousness has reduced considerably, and the main reason is Chiranjeevi garu. During the pre-release event, we unveiled the hook-step song. Watching Chiranjeevi garu dance to it, and the fun moments I shared with Venkatesh garu on stage, unknowingly created a very positive vibe. That completely eased my tension.
The hook step has gone viral. Can you share the story behind it?
There’s an interesting backstory. Initially, we planned a mass melody for that situation. Meesala Pilla and Sashirekha are already melody-based songs. I felt that if Chiranjeevi garu’s introduction song was also a melody, it wouldn’t feel impactful. I conveyed my concern to him.
During the shoot, unexpected rain halted filming. Chiranjeevi garu said it was nature’s signal. That moment sparked a new idea. This song was actually meant to be released in place of Sashirekha. We finally shot it during the last schedule, and that’s when the Mega magic truly happened.
Music director Bheems delivered a brilliant and fresh tune. Choreographer AT Sandeep, who has long wanted to work on a Chiranjeevi song, did a phenomenal job. Lyricist Ramajogayya Sastry coined the term “hook step,” which became iconic.
You often work with local technicians. Is there a specific reason?
Bheems strongly encourages fresh and local talent. Even the blockbuster Pongal song from Sankranthiki Vasthunnam was sung by local singers. In this film, Meesala Pilla was sung by Udit Narayan, while the hook-step song was sung by Babasaheb.
Choreographers Bhanu Master, Vijay, and AT Sandeep proved themselves exceptionally well. Seeing our local technicians gain recognition makes me extremely happy.
You now have a strong Sankranthi track record. Does that add pressure?
Too much tagging isn’t always good—it increases pressure. If audiences feel that Anil Ravipudi delivers good entertainment during Sankranthi, that’s enough for me. Strong content always works, irrespective of competition. My films usually focus on human relationships and family emotions, which naturally work in my favor.
What is the emotional core of this film?
There’s a powerful emotional element that we’ve deliberately not revealed in teasers or trailers—you must experience it on the big screen. Along with comedy, the film offers a strong emotional journey. The scenes between Chiranjeevi garu, Nayanthara, and the children are deeply touching.
We’ve also explored marital conflict from a very fresh perspective—how a husband and wife deal with issues in a mature and relatable way. Audiences will strongly connect with it and feel, “Yes, this is absolutely right.”
Making a film with Chiranjeevi and Venkatesh together must be challenging. How did the journey begin?
Thankfully, my very first idea clicked. I share great sync with Venkatesh garu, and Chiranjeevi garu loved the concept and characterization instantly. Recently, I hadn’t worked on a story driven so strongly by characterization. Following the story purely from the hero’s perspective felt refreshing.
The character Shankara Vara Prasad—his anger, humor, and emotional journey—carries the film. After his comeback, Chiranjeevi garu hadn’t explored pure family genres like Annayya or Bavagaru Bagunnara. This genre has delivered massive blockbusters, and I always wanted to bring him back to it.
His playful humor and emotional moments will transport audiences back in time. I strongly believe every Chiranjeevi fan will walk out saying “Wow.”
Nayanthara also actively participated in promotions. How did that happen?
I ensure every artist and technician feels comfortable on my sets. When you genuinely request something, it creates an emotional connection. Nayanthara is very honest—if she believes in something, she commits wholeheartedly. That’s exactly what happened here.
Did you adapt your style to Chiranjeevi or vice versa?
With a Megastar like Chiranjeevi, mass elements are essential. Action, fun, and grandeur were carefully maintained without compromising his image. Once he understood how Shankara Vara Prasad behaves, he effortlessly slipped into the character. There are even self-satirical moments, handled playfully.
How did you balance two big stars?
You’ll see that on screen (laughs). Both Chiranjeevi garu and Venkatesh garu gave me complete freedom. Their friendship made my job incredibly easy. The 18-day shoot with both of them is one of the most memorable phases of my career.
Their non-stop combination runs for nearly 20 minutes, with Venkatesh playing Venky Gowda, a mining businessman from Karnataka—a very unique character.
Is there competition among Sankranthi releases?
Sankranthi is the perfect season for entertainers. If the content is strong, all films will succeed. In the past, Sarileru Neekevvaru and Ala Vaikunta Puramulo proved this. I sincerely wish success to all films releasing this Sankranthi.
How do you handle criticism and memes?
I’m never hurt. Whether people criticize or praise me, I smile. I remain positive.
Chiranjeevi mentioned that some scenes were removed. Why?
We trimmed a small entertainment block as it slightly interrupted the narrative flow.
How do you manage budgets so efficiently?
I take responsibility like a producer—from pre-production to daily expenses. I receive daily budget updates via WhatsApp. Producers risk everything on a film, so ensuring their safety and happiness is my priority. Thankfully, all my producers have been happy—before and after release.
How was it directing Chiranjeevi?
I grew up dancing to his songs. Directing him felt surreal—I was instantly transported back to my childhood. I have immense respect for both Chiranjeevi garu and Venkatesh garu. We shared a beautiful bond throughout the shoot. I will definitely attempt a full-length film with both of them again.
Do you think this film will beat Sankranthiki Vasthunnam?
That’s for the audience to decide. But judging by the massive hype, it looks like a huge opening is guaranteed. Audiences are eagerly waiting for a film like this.
What’s next?
Nothing planned yet. For the first time, I want to take a short break—just two weeks of relaxation.
When will you work with Nagarjuna?
Everyone keeps asking that—including me! I truly wish to make a film with him. If that happens, I’ll have the rare record of directing all four top stars.
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