'Ichata Vahanamulu Nilupa Radu' is all set to release in theatres on August 27. In this interview, actor Sushanth talks about the movie, why it is unique, what made him take it up, the experience of doing 'Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo', marriage, and more.
After 'Chi La Sow', 'Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo' happened. I listened to the story of 'IVNR' before the release of 'CLS'. I could connect with the incidents that happen in a colony in the movie. Director S Darshan wrote the story based on the incidents that happened in his friend's life. It's an engaging film in terms of content. Also, it's quite different from 'CLS'.
Since 'CLS', I am not taking too much pressure. I am enjoying doing films. I have started to be relaxed in front of the camera. This is something Trivikram garu has analyzed correctly about the change in me.
'IVNR' has got interesting situations but the story is not complex. It's a realistic story that is also entertaining. It's a rare combination.
The film was supposed to be released in January or February, but the post-production took a lot of time. By the time the product was ready, the second wave came in. OTT offers flowed in amidst severe uncertainty. There were many question marks. Luckily, producer Ravi Shastri and Harish believed in the product, and wanted to give the audience a theatrical experience. Post-theatrical digital offers have been great. We are in a safe zone now.
I feel this is my best work. Compared to my previous movies, I am more intense and more fleshed out here. A lot of people from a wide section of society have watched 'IVNR' and everyone gave us positive feedback.
Meenakshii Chaudhary has played the female lead. I met her at a workshop in Mumbai. She didn't know that I am an actor. She happened to play a tough character during the workshop. I liked her performance and asked her if she would like to do a Telugu film. That's how she came on board. She is multi-talented who is also into swimming, badminton and is a student of Dentistry. After 'IVNR', she has done quite a few other projects in other languages.
The lockdown has taught me that mental peace, family, recreation and friends are quite important. Work is important but when life itself has become so fragile, we shouldn't stress out too much. We ought to spend more time with our loved ones. I started meditating during the pandemic. I am also learning piano.
I have never had any targets. I don't compare myself with others. I give my best and see whether the audience will recognize my sincerity. Doing 'Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo' was a huge thing since it's a film that everyone has watched. Sprite came to me for brand endorsement because of it. Doing the movie helped me learn a great deal from Trivikram garu. Doing the film was like going to a school. I also observed that Bunny and Trivikram share a great rapport. They share inputs.
Marriage is something that will happen when I meet the right person. There is no pressure from family. My mother never forces me to get married.
