Sometimes, a change in plans leads you right back to where you started. The team behind Shiva Kandukuri’s upcoming film recently held a grand press meet to announce a major update: their film, previously titled Chaiwala, has been officially renamed Nawab Cafe.
The film, starring Shiva Kandukuri, Rajeev Kanakala, and Teju Ashwini, is all set to hit the big screen on February 20.
The Story Behind the Name Change
While the team had heavily promoted the film as Chaiwala, they decided to pivot to Nawab Cafe to align with censor board guidelines and internal suggestions.
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A Full Circle Moment: Hero Shiva Kandukuri revealed that Nawab Cafe was actually the film's original working title during the scripting phase. "Destiny has brought us back to the name that truly represents the soul of our story," Shiva shared.
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Producer’s Stance: Producer Venkat clarified that while there wasn't an official "ban," discussions with the censor board in Mumbai led the team to choose a title that would avoid any potential hurdles.
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Creative Integrity: Despite the logistical challenge of re-branding, the production house (Harshika Productions) refused to compromise on the film's quality or content.
A Relatable, Emotional Ride
Director Pramod Harsha has infused the script with real-life experiences, promising a narrative that hits close to home. Shiva Kandukuri noted that the film’s emotional core is its biggest strength:
"This is a movie made with total honesty. I can guarantee one thing—after watching this film, every viewer will feel the urge to call their father and just talk to him."
The Debut Factor
For lead actress Teju Ashwini, this project marks her debut. She views the title change as a "divine test" to ensure the best possible product reaches the audience. "If the content is strong, the audience will embrace us regardless of the name on the poster," she said confidently.
With the new title now official, the Nawab Cafe team is shifting their gears back into full-scale promotion mode to ensure a grand opening this February.
