In an insightful interview, Padmavati Malladi, the director of the highly anticipated film Gandhi Tatha Chettu, shares her journey, creative process, and the inspiration behind this heartwarming tale.
A Journey Rooted in Storytelling
Padmavati Malladi traces her passion for storytelling back to her childhood: "Growing up in Hyderabad, I was surrounded by discipline and a strong emphasis on education. After completing my postgraduate studies, I embarked on my writing journey with Chandrasekhar Yeleti. I had the privilege of contributing to acclaimed films like Radhe Shyam and Mahanati, writing dialogues for Choosi Choodangaane, and working on the film Ammu and the web series Brinda. These experiences shaped my understanding of narrative and fueled my desire to direct."
The Genesis of "Gandhi Tatha Chettu"
Padmavati reveals the inspiration behind the film: "The idea for Gandhi Tatha Chettu stemmed from a friend's suggestion to explore a love story between a tree and a human. I've always been passionate about nature, so the concept resonated deeply. I wanted to convey the importance of trees and greenery to future generations through a captivating story. The film follows a young girl's journey to protect her village and a cherished tree, embracing the principles of non-violence. It's a message-driven film with commercial appeal, guaranteed to touch hearts and spark conversations."
Creating a World of Authenticity
Padmavati discusses the film's unique setting and visual style: "To create an authentic world for the story, we ventured to Nizamabad and found the perfect tree on a friend's farm. We filmed in the picturesque village of Rangampeta, surrounded by lush sugarcane fields. The story begins in 1947, the year of Gandhiji's passing, with a tree planted by the protagonist's grandfather. We aimed for a natural and authentic visual style that complements the film's emotional core."
A Bold Choice and a Perfect Fit
Padmavati explains the decision behind Sukrithi Veni's bold portrayal of Gandhi: "Prosthetic makeup wasn't feasible, and Sukrithi's character is courageous and bold, someone who defies societal norms. Shaving her head was a daring decision that perfectly aligned with the character's spirit. Sukrithi embodies the essence of Gandhi; she was the perfect fit for the role. I first noticed her during the preview of Ashoka Vanamlo Arjuna Kalyanam and was captivated by her presence. With the support of Sukumar and Tabitha, we brought her on board."
Collaboration, Trust, and a Shared Vision
Padmavati highlights the collaborative spirit behind the film: "We conducted extensive workshops to prepare for the shoot. Sukrithi immersed herself in the role, and we completed filming in just 25 days. Sukumar, trusting my vision, encouraged me to tell the story in my own way. The music, especially the background score, plays a crucial role in enhancing the narrative. The film is not a biopic of Gandhiji but rather a story of a young girl named Gandhi who embodies his principles. It's a message of non-violence, both between humans and with nature. We chose to release the film after its successful festival run to build anticipation and share this impactful story with a wider audience. The film features local villagers as actors, adding authenticity to the narrative."
A Promising Future
Padmavati concludes by sharing her aspirations: "I have several stories in mind and will choose my next project after Gandhi Tatha Chettu's release. I'm excited to continue exploring diverse narratives and bringing compelling stories to the screen."
With its powerful message, heartwarming narrative, and Sukrithi Veni's promising debut, Gandhi Tatha Chettu is poised to be a cinematic gem that resonates with audiences of all ages.
