The highly anticipated action thriller "Bhairavam," featuring a powerhouse trio of Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas, Manoj Manchu, and Nara Rohit, is gearing up for a grand theatrical release on May 30th. Directed by Vijay Kanakamedala and produced by K.K. Radhamohan under the Sri Satyasai Arts banner, with Dr. Jayantilal Gada of Pen Studios presenting, "Bhairavam" promises to be a summer blockbuster. The film also stars Aditi Shankar, Anandhi, and Divya Pillai as the leading ladies.
As promotional content has already generated significant buzz, director Vijay Kanakamedala recently shared insights into the film at a press conference.
Adapting "Garudan" for Telugu Audiences
When asked about the decision to remake "Garudan" and the changes made for the Telugu version, Kanakamedala explained: "I was commercially drawn to the story, and it also offered the chance to work with three heroes, which was a big draw. The organic emotion from the original is retained. The characterization and presentation, however, will be in my style, incorporating all the commercial values needed for Telugu cinema. Even those who have seen the original will definitely feel it's new and will likely feel that this version is even better. Audiences will be thrilled."
Working with the Star Trio
Discussing his experience directing Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas, Nara Rohit, and Manoj Manchu, he said: "When we first conceived this story, Sai Garu was finalized. Later, we met Rohit Garu and Manoj Garu, and both agreed. Manoj Garu and Rohit Garu are excellent performers. There was also a bit of a gap since their last appearances on screen. I believe that when a good film comes from such talented actors, audiences will definitely come to the theater."
He emphasized that the film retains the core emotional conflict of the original, while also incorporating emotions that resonate with Telugu audiences. When asked about the challenges of working with three heroes on set, Kanakamedala admitted: "In the beginning, I thought it might be difficult to handle three heroes. However, these three are very good friends off-screen and were extremely supportive. We worked for 14 continuous nights. There were almost 900 people on set. Shooting that portion felt challenging."
Aditi Shankar's Performance and Film's Vibe
Praising Aditi Shankar, the director remarked: "I saw her film with Karthi, and I really liked her performance. In this film, she has very good chemistry with Sai Sreenivas. Her character has a lot of energy, and she did it perfectly."
He further added about the film's overall tone: "Compared to my previous films, this one will be a bit more joyful. It's a drama unfolding between friends and family. We've included just the right amount of entertainment. All three characters are superb. Having Manoj Garu on set makes it very joyful."
Music, Title, and Future Plans
Regarding Sricharan's music, Kanakamedala stated: "This is my second film with Sricharan. He has given perfect music and a very good album. The three songs released so far have already become big hits. We are releasing another song on the 21st, which will be very commercial. He has done an excellent job with the background score, trying something new instead of regular sounds."
When asked about his most challenging genre, he replied: "Drama, action thrillers, horror – all these are easy to make, but comedy is very difficult."
Explaining the title "Bhairavam," he said: "It's a title that came from the story. There's a small devotional touch in the film. There's a temple in a village, and its protector is Bhairava. We titled the film 'Bhairavam' after the form of that Bhairava." He confirmed that the temple seen in the film was a massive set built in an aluminum factory, as a real location in Mysore couldn't be used, and it turned out wonderfully.
Looking ahead, Kanakamedala mentioned: "I have a few scripts. Nothing is finalized yet; the next project will depend on the success of 'Bhairavam.' I've prepared a story for Chiranjeevi Garu, and also one each for Balakrishna Garu and Venkatesh Garu. I met Chiranjeevi Garu once during this film's break, and he said he would give me time."
"Bhairavam" is poised to offer a thrilling and emotionally resonant cinematic experience, promising to be a major highlight of the summer releases.
