“Shiva is Magic”—Nagarjuna & Ram Gopal Varma Speak at the 4K Dolby Atmos Re-Release Press Meet
King Nagarjuna’s all-time cult classic Shiva not only shattered box-office records but also redefined Indian cinema into “Before Shiva” and “After Shiva.” Directed by Ram Gopal Varma and released in 1989, the film was produced by Akkineni Venkat and Surendra Yarlagadda under Annapurna Studios.
On the occasion of 50 years of Annapurna Studios, Shiva is being re-released on November 14 in a newly remastered 4K Dolby Atmos version. A special premiere was held today, followed by a press meet attended by Nagarjuna and Ram Gopal Varma.
Nagarjuna: “Watching Shiva again felt like watching a new film”
“Shiva is pure magic. Watching the 4K Dolby Atmos version made me feel like I was watching a brand-new movie. Re-releasing Shiva as part of Annapurna Studios’ 50-year celebrations gives me immense joy,” Nagarjuna shared.
When asked about revisiting the film after 36 years, he said:
“I never imagined we would all come together like this after so many years. I never expected Shiva to receive such cult status. Just like he did in 1989, Ramu has worked with the same passion for the re-release over the last six months. The sound is extraordinary—all thanks to Ramu’s effort. When I watched it recently, I felt the same excitement you felt today. It truly felt like a new film.”
Nagarjuna also revealed the personal connection he has with the film:
“Shiva is special for all of us. This re-release isn’t about profit. Whatever Shiva needed, Ramu asked… and we provided.”
Ram Gopal Varma: “Shiva was made for one and only Nagarjuna”
RGV revealed the effort behind upgrading the sound:
“I’m happy people are loving the enhanced sound. We used AI technology to improve the audio without losing the original flavor.”
When asked who he would cast if Shiva were made today, he answered instantly:
“Shiva was made for one and only Nagarjuna. I cannot imagine anyone else.”
Nostalgia, Memories & Magic
Nagarjuna spoke emotionally about seeing Amala on screen again:
“It was very nostalgic. While watching the film, I messaged her saying, ‘I couldn’t take my eyes off you’,” he laughed.
He recalled his father Akkineni Nageswara Rao’s reaction:
“My father said, ‘The movie is a huge hit. You’ve done something incredible. I don’t know where this film will stop.’”
Why Shiva Became a Trendsetter
Nagarjuna reflected on the film’s path-breaking nature:
“Ramu came in with a strong vision. He showed that films can be made differently. I often wonder why Shiva became a cult classic—something magical happened.”
He also shared how Shiva shaped his approach to future roles:
“Ramu had once sent me a note describing the heroism of Shiva’s character. I was deeply inspired. I wanted to choose characters with those qualities going forward.”
Thoughts on Directing Style
When asked when he gained confidence in RGV, Nagarjuna replied:
“Before Shiva itself, I was sure I wanted to work with Ramu. He came to my outdoor shoots. I loved his story, his sensibilities. Once I decide, I never go back.”
The Iconic Cycle Chain – How It Happened
RGV revealed how the legendary weapon idea was born:
“Nagarjuna’s character is a student, not a rowdy. But in one situation, he needed a weapon that felt natural. We looked for something a student might realistically have. That’s how the cycle chain idea was created.”
Re-Release Changes: Two Songs Trimmed
RGV explained why two songs were removed in the re-release:
“With the upgraded sound quality, we felt the songs might slow down the pace. Earlier, films followed the ‘five-song formula’. Now we had the chance to streamline the film. But we added the songs at the end for fans to enjoy.”
On Future Collaborations
When asked about doing another film with RGV, Nagarjuna responded:
“I still have the same confidence in Ramu. If everything works out, we’ll definitely do another film.”
RGV added humorously:
“Only after I score a hit outside, I will approach Nagarjuna again!”
Would Naga Chaitanya or Akhil Act in a Shiva Sequel?
To this, Nagarjuna laughed and said:
“I don’t think they have that courage or guts!”
On His 100th Film
Asked about choosing a new director for his 100th film, he simply said:
“No big thought process. I just follow my heart.”
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