‘Odela 2’ Offers a Unique Visual Experience. The Story of Soul vs Supernatural Powers Will Definitely Connect with Everyone: Director Sampath Nandi
Tamannaah Bhatia is all set to entertain in a never-before-seen role in the highly anticipated film Odela 2. This supernatural thriller is the sequel to Odela Railway Station. Directed by Ashok Teja under the supervision of Sampath Nandi, and produced by D. Madhu under Madhu Creations and Sampath Nandi Teamworks, the film has created a huge buzz with its promotional content. Tamannaah will be seen as a mystical Nag Sadhvi with an aura of mystery. Hebbah Patel and Vashishta N. Simha play key roles. The teaser and trailer have raised expectations to the next level. Odela 2 is set to release in theatres on April 17, as one of this summer’s biggest attractions.
When did the idea for Odela 2 begin?
We didn’t plan a sequel when we made Part 1. We just left a small lead at the end in case there was an opportunity. Part 1 was a huge success in Telugu, and even Aha bought the Tamil rights. There was a proposal to remake it in Hindi. Director Ashok asked, “Why not write a sequel?” Once, I went to a music sitting with Bheems; though that sitting didn’t happen, the idea for the sequel was born there.
In Part 1, Hebbah Patel’s role as Radha was a highlight. We thought it would be good to have another strong female character in Part 2. In the first part, an evil force is destroyed, but to control that spirit, another power is needed. That’s when we thought of a character like Shiva Shakti. I’ve worked with Tamannaah in two previous films. She’s a fantastic performer and perfect for this role. She liked the character a lot too
To put it simply, this movie is about the soul versus supernatural powers – the soul vs the supreme soul. I’ve seen people like Shiva Shaktis in my native village. My grandmother used to be one. As a kid, I saw her go into trance, and we would sometimes make fun of it unknowingly. She was very popular in that region. People would come to her with their problems. All those visuals stayed in my memory. I thought it would be fresh to bring that to the screen. I also learned how Shiva Shaktis become Nag Sadhvis and work on temple restoration. That’s how the character of the Nag Sadhvi was born.
What efforts were made for Tamannaah’s Nag Sadhvi look?
We tried three different looks initially. Tamannaah has very fair skin, whereas Nag Sadhvis are exposed to the sun, and their skin tone is different. No matter what makeup we tried, it looked fake. Even among Nag Sadhus, there are foreigners. When Tamannaah is in the sun, her skin turns pinkish. So we decided to go with a no-makeup look. I spoke to designer Neeta Lulla about it. I sent her all my reference costumes. She came up with two designs, and we finalized the one you now see. It took a lot of time to prepare the look, and we took many precautions.
Tamannaah shot for this film barefoot in the scorching sun. She even turned completely vegetarian for the role. I believe she was able to portray such a character because she’s on a spiritual journey herself. She performed this role effortlessly.
Are you satisfied with the graphics in the film?
Very happy. The quality of the VFX in this film is on par with that of Indian superstar films. Around 150 VFX experts have been working on this film for the past six months.
About music director Ajaneesh Loknath?
He was the first technician I finalized for this project because of Kantara. The background score in this film will be extraordinary. Ajaneesh’s music is the biggest blessing for this film.
About Director Ashok?
I’ve known Ashok since childhood. I made Odela to give him a chance as a director. He has done a brilliant job with this film too.
How is Hebbah Patel’s role in the second part?
Her character continues in Part 2. There’s a crucial, large episode involving her in the second half.
When did you first get the idea to write such a story?
I never planned to write a story like this. I’ve been making films like Racha, Bengal Tiger, and Goutham Nanda. A few years ago, I didn’t even have this level of understanding. At my wife’s place, a Shiva Lingam was consecrated, and she’s been performing pujas for the past eight years. I’ve also read a few spiritual books. Perhaps all of that stored in my subconscious mind has now come out through this film.
About producer Madhu?
He’s a very passionate producer. If he likes an idea, he immediately agrees to it. I suggested launching this film in Kashi, and without hesitation, he supported the idea without worrying about the cost. Launching the teaser at the Kumbh Mela was also possible because of his passion. This film has been made with strong determination.
The trailer shows shades similar to Arundhati and Pashupati – is that intentional?
It might seem like that in the trailer, but once you watch the movie, you’ll see there’s no resemblance to Arundhati. Both are unique in their own ways. This story is a war between a spirit and the Panchakshari mantra.
The visuals in this film will be very new and offer a unique experience to the audience.
About Vashishta Simha?
He has a powerful voice. In Part 1, I asked him to dub for a character just for his voice. His performance in this film is also outstanding.
Is there a plan for a third part?
Films like these can’t be planned. I believe it’s up to God. I feel like this story was written by Lord Kalabhairava himself.
About your upcoming film with Sharwanand?
It’s based on real incidents. There’s a village on the Maharashtra–Adilabad border where some events occurred. We’ve turned those into a fictional story. It’s set in the 1960s.
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