'Bangarraju' will be released in theatres on January 14. Starring Akkineni Nagarjuna, Naga Chaitanya, Krithi Shetty and Ramya Krishna, its music is by Anup Rubens. In this interview, composer Rubens talks about teaming up with Nagarjuna, director Kalyan Krishna Kurasala, his style of music, working on a fast-track basis for the Sankranthi release, and more.
This is my third film with Nagarjuna garu and second one with Naga Chaitanya garu. Our collaborations have been successful. It's not about one or the other one being a lucky charm. We share a healthy, creative rapport. Nag sir creates a friendly atmosphere for his team. He gives them space, freedom. Naturally, one is motivated to go the extra mile.
If you work with a director on repeat, you get to know the scale of his expectations. You are clear-minded. As for the effort, it is the same for all films. 'Soggade Chinni Nayana' ('SCN') was a musical hit. As such, comparisons between its music and 'Bangarraju' are only to be expected. I kept the expectations in mind.
The idea to have Nag sir sing came from the universe of 'SCN'. While working with him on 'Manam', I liked his voice and his way of singing. I couldn't have his song for that movie. We tried it for 'SCN'.
'Bangarraju' is a completely village-based story. The music sounds traditional and rural. That way, it was a new attempt for me. The BGM, too, is not Western. I have used suitable instruments.
Re-recording has been completed. We completed all post-production works pretty fast. We worked for 20 hours a day, day in and day out, and completed everything in 20 days. From editing to CG works and BGM, everything was completed to make sure that 'Bangarraju' is ready for a Sankranthi release. The production works were completed in 4 months. The span of the story is wide and it was not easy for the director and his team to wrap it up this fast!
Despite the fast pace at which we completed the post-production works, the quality is intact. We never compromised on quality. Kalyan Krishna, the director, has evolved since 'SCN'. He has handled all aspects with maturity. He is now more focused and controlled.
The three songs released so far have become a hit. 'Laddunda', 'Vaasivaadi Thassadiyya' and the duet have clicked with the listeners. One more song is coming out later this week. Sid Sriram has sung 'Naa Kosam' and I like his kind of voice.
'Bangarraju' is a colourful film, out and out. Its content is strong, the fun elements are enjoyable.The covid-induced delays don't make much difference to the quality of work. Just that we get to spend more time with family!
'Shekar', starring Rajasekhar garu, is my other upcoming release. It has got a strong story.
