Srinivas Avasarala, has put an impression on the audience’s minds by showing great ease in his performance in ‘Ashta Chemma’. Later he worked for few films as an actor and writer as well before he turned director for this romantic comedy ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade’. Sai Korrapati of ‘Eega’ and ‘Andala Rakshasi’ fame, who has passion for small films with good content, encouraged this young talent to bring out his directorial skills. Introducing Naga Shourya as hero and Rashi Khanna of ‘Madras Café’ as heroine, Srinivas Avasarala made his directorial debut with ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade’ under Sai Korrapati Production banner with Rajani Korrapati as producer and Sai Sivani as its presenter. The film has hit theaters today (June 20, 2014) across two states Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and at overseas in over 200 theaters. On this occasion, an interview has been given by actor cum director Srinivas Avasarala. Here are few excerpts from his interview.
Could you brief a little about the film ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade’?
The story of ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade’ revolves around a guy who aspires to become a news anchor and how changes occur in his life with a girl’s entry. It’s a complete romantic comedy film. Posani and Prithvi’s characters will catch audience’s attention. 
How did you choose the title ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade’?
We almost thought of 40-50 titles to get the aptly suitable title for the film. One fine day while I was listening to an old song ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade……’ from the film ‘Bandipotu’, I felt that the first line got connected to the story. That’s how I selected the title ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade’.
Can you tell us about the casting of the film?
Around 2000 applications have come for the casting call ad which we gave for the film. Naga Shourya’s photos caught my attention. I was also impressed with his show reel and okayed him instantly. Similarly Rasi Khanna’s performance in ‘Madras Café’ was pleasing. So I approached her and signed for the film. She played a tricky role in the film. I’m very happy with the casting of this film. Both perfectly suited for the lead characters and showed great ease in acting. They did cent percent justice to their roles.
We have learnt that you played a character in the film too?
Yes, you heard it right. I played the CEO of a TV channel. Producer Sai never encouraged me to do any role and suggested me to focus completely on direction. But I managed to shoot few scenes in two days in his absence. Later he couldn’t deny it after watching the rushes.
Okay, what would you actually want to be? Actor or director?
I worked as an actor and writer for few films. And for the first time I directed a film. I prepared three pucca scripts and choose to do this film first because it’s a safe bet for the producer. I still have two scripts in hand. On the other hand, I got bored with comedy and romantic roles. I aim to do variety roles and wish to be part of a good film. So I neither want to settle down completely as a director or an actor.
How did you get the opportunity to work with producer Sai Korrapati?
I prepared the script of ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade’ with the intention to direct the film by myself and approached several producers with it. All like the script but had their own reasons for not making the film. At one point of time, few producers even planned to make the film with my script and other directors. But finally, my script went into the hands of Sai Korrapati garu. Kalyani Koduri introduced me to him and that’s how I got the opportunity to direct ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade’.
Songs are beautiful too!
Yes, Kalyani’s music is an asset to the film. He composed beautiful songs. Response was fabulous for all songs.
Sai Korrapati’s production values and aggressive publicity have helped your film to reach theaters fast.
Absolutely! Off late many are entering into production, but they are not focusing on publicity. While there are several films lying in cans without publicity, many others are still on sets. Nevertheless, Sai garu supported me in every aspect right from the time he decided to make this film. We started the regular shooting in October. Since then he facilitated with all requirements to complete the film quickly. And I hope I lived up to his expectations with my dedication and hardwork. I along with my team constantly worked hard for the best output. Despite ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade’ being a small film, Sai garu gave aggressive publicity and released it in good theaters. I’m very happy for that. I consider myself lucky for getting a producer like him.
What’s next for Srinivas Avasarala after ‘Oohalu Gusagusalaade’?
I’ve signed yet another film for producer Sai Korrapati garu. Film with Naga Chiatanya has not yet been finalized. I’ve decided not to take any hasty decision and step forward with proper planning. On the other hand, I’m playing a role in Gopichand’s film which is being made under UV Creations banner. I’m also doing a character in Allari Naresh’s ‘Bandipotu’.
Srinivas Avasarala concluded his interview saying, “We are very positive on the film ‘Oohalu Gusagusalade’ as the output and publicity are great. So I’m hoping that the film will show good results at the box office.”
