With the highly anticipated pan-India film 'Kuberaa' just days away from its global release, director Sekhar Kammula held a special press conference today to share intricate details about his magnum opus. Starring Superstar Dhanush, King Nagarjuna, and Rashmika Mandanna, 'Kuberaa' is already generating immense buzz, with its promotional content, including chart-topping songs "Poyiraa Mama," "Trance of Kuberaa," and "Pee Pee Dum Dum," dominating music charts. Produced by Suniel Narang and Puskur Ram Mohan Rao under SVCLLP in collaboration with Sekhar Kammula's Amigos Creations Pvt Ltd, the film is set for a grand worldwide release on June 20th in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam.
The Genesis of 'Kuberaa': Billionaire vs. Beggar
Sekhar Kammula revealed the core motivation behind 'Kuberaa': "There was no specific motivation, but it felt like an incredibly interesting line – a super-rich world contrasting with a world at the very bottom. A billionaire versus a beggar – that felt intriguing." He admitted the initial challenge of crafting such a narrative: "It’s actually very difficult to tell this story. It's a very grand point. It slowly evolved into an emotional thriller."
He delved deeper into the central conflict: "A beggar who wants nothing, versus a billionaire who desires everything in the world – the conflict between them is very interesting." Kammula expressed his satisfaction with the story: "In recent times, many films and stories are coming out, but I am very happy to have narrated a story like this. Such a story definitely needs to be told. This story brings awareness. It's a thrilling point."
The director clarified the production process, "We shot the film in both Telugu and Tamil. There are no story changes, but there will be a minute's difference in length. Everything was shot separately for lip-sync, technically like making two films. That's why it took a bit more time."
Casting Perfection: Nagarjuna and Dhanush
Kammula confirmed his insistence on casting Nagarjuna for a specific role. "Nagarjuna Garu perfectly suits characters with certain shades. For this character, he was the perfect fit. When you see him on screen, there’s a 'wow' factor. We presented him with a different kind of acting, tailored to the character and its dynamics with the managers." He noted Nagarjuna's versatility, having done diverse roles in films like Manam and Oopiri.
Regarding Dhanush, Kammula was unequivocal: "No one else could have done this character. After watching the film, the audience will say the same thing. He performed incredibly well. 'Outstanding performance' is an understatement. You cannot imagine anyone else in that character. He stays in character until the film is complete. He does everything in a single take." He also highlighted Dhanush's dedication, "This is the first time in his career that a director asked him to lose weight, and he genuinely did it. He deserves countless National Awards."
The 'Sekhar Kammula Mark' and Unprecedented Experience
Addressing his signature style, Kammula stated, "Honestly, a 'mark' has fallen on me, but I never made films for a specific mark. I just did what the story demanded." He acknowledged the perception, "Since most of my blockbusters are musical hits and love stories, that impression was created." He drew parallels with his past hits: "Leader was a very honest story; I never thought of adding a love story or good songs. It was the same with Happy Days; it was treated purely as a college story, which is why you liked it. 'Kuberaa' is the same. I did what this story needed. The 'mark' will be defined by the story. However, when audiences watch 'Kuberaa,' they will have a 'wow' factor, thinking, 'Did he do such a story this way?' That's why we clearly established the content in the trailer and teaser, showcasing the story between the rich and the poor." He emphasized, "This is a different film. Whatever film I make, I do it honestly, and that honesty will be tenfold in this movie."
Challenges, Music, and Future Prospects
Kammula clarified that the film is not an "ideological battle" but will bring awareness about the existence of two different worlds. He praised Devi Sri Prasad's musical contribution: "My journey with Devi Sri Prasad Garu has been superb. Commercially, he is a king. He gave amazing background score for 'Kuberaa.' There are many high-inducing moments. The music offers a great experience."
On the film's grand scale, he credited his producers: "Such a big star cast and large budget were only possible because of the producers. Whatever I asked, they never refused and supported me wonderfully." While tight-lipped about how Nagarjuna and Dhanush's characters intersect, he promised it would be "very beautiful" to witness on screen. He also lauded actor Jim Sarbh's dedication and performance, predicting more opportunities for him in the Telugu industry.
Kammula admitted that shooting in Mumbai was particularly challenging due to strict permissions. He explained, "The story itself demanded a Mumbai backdrop. Mumbai was essential to the narrative." Reflecting on his 25-year journey, he expressed emotion: "From making my first film in a small house to now making such a big film, it's an emotional journey. Audiences have given me so much love and always trusted me. I've maintained that trust, which is very joyful. Audiences appreciated my films and gave me a standing; I can't ask for anything more."
He confirmed there would be no Part 2 for 'Kuberaa', humorously adding, "It's enough that I made this one!" While a sequel to 'Leader' is something he contemplates, he acknowledges that the country and people have changed significantly since then, requiring a fresh approach. He also clarified that 'Kuberaa' was not initially conceived as a pan-India film but naturally evolved due to its universally relatable story. Finally, regarding a rumored film with Nani, he stated, "It's not solidified. It will take some time and requires more work."
Cast and Crew Share Their Praise
Rashmika Mandanna expressed her joy at working with Sekhar Kammula, calling it a great opportunity. She praised Nagarjuna as a "very beautiful human being" and expressed excitement about her chemistry with Dhanush, hoping it leads to more collaborations.
Devi Sri Prasad echoed the sentiment, calling 'Kuberaa' a "very special film" and expressing his delight at finally working with Sekhar Kammula on such an "amazing script." He lauded all the lead actors for their outstanding performances, particularly noting Dhanush's incredible transformation and Nagarjuna's royal portrayal.
Producers Puskur Ram Mohan Rao highlighted the film's genre blend, promising thriller, crime, and suspense elements. Lyricists Nandakishore and Bhaskar Bhatla also expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, as did production designer Thota Tharani, all confident in the film's success.
