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Pawan Kalyan addressed the media today, marking his first film-related press meet in the past two years. The actor-turned-Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister interacted with film journalists in Hyderabad to promote his upcoming release “Hari Hara Veera Mallu.”
Highlights from Pawan Kalyan’s Interaction with the Media:
Gratitude to the film industry
“We are holding this press meet ahead of the pre-release event because I genuinely felt bad seeing producer A.M. Rathnam working so hard to promote the film. Filmmakers like him deserve full support. At a time when the number of producers is dwindling, it’s our responsibility to stand by passionate individuals like Rathnam garu. Despite facing political criticism for returning to films, I came all the way here to promote this film because the film industry gave me my livelihood. I will always have immense respect and gratitude for it.”
Not on par with other top stars
“Though I may be politically popular and recognized across India because of my political journey, as an actor, my popularity and box office range are not on par with other top stars in the film industry. My business range is comparatively low. That’s why I felt the need to personally step in and support the film’s promotions.”
A M Rathnam inspired me
“Making a film like Hari Hara Veera Mallu is nothing short of going to war—financially, creatively, emotionally. Before I entered the film industry, I always wished for a producer like A.M. Ratnam garu. He’s someone who elevated regional cinema to a national platform. He proved his mettle by releasing Tamil films in Telugu and making them perform on par with straight Telugu films. His vision and creative contribution to Indian cinema have always inspired me.
This film has seen many ups and downs. It faced two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. There were creative challenges as well. But no matter the obstacles, our intention was always to make a good film. I personally witnessed Ratnam garu’s unwavering passion for this project. Especially after I shifted my focus to politics and distanced myself from filmmaking and the creative process, it was he who came to me with the request to do a film again. Despite my packed political commitments, I gave my best. For instance, I dedicated nearly 57 days just for shooting the climax portion. We filmed in May under extremely hot conditions. The martial arts training I had undertaken both in India and abroad came in handy for this sequence. Alongside the choreographers, we designed a powerful climax. It’s truly the soul of the film.”
About the story
The film is set against a fascinating historical backdrop — the journey of the Kohinoor diamond, which was discovered in Kollur on the banks of the Krishna River, and how it eventually reached the Hyderabad Sultans. Director Krish Jagarlamudi garu laid the foundation for this narrative. When he and Ratnam garu narrated the story to me, I instantly liked the concept and agreed to do it. Unfortunately, the pandemic severely affected the film’s progress, and Krish garu, due to unavoidable circumstances, couldn’t complete it. I remain sincerely grateful to him for setting the vision.
While I was working on “Khushi,” Jyothi Krishna was studying filmmaking in London. Even back then, I could see he had a sharp creative mind. He completed the film with so much passion. Keeravani breathed life into it with his music.”
A personal commitment to cinema
“Many media friends here know me personally, and you all know how much cinema means to me. I took the responsibility of carrying this film forward because I didn’t want someone like Ratnam garu to be left in a difficult position. He, along with director Jyothi Krishna and cinematographer Manoj Paramahamsa, sacrificed their sleep and peace of mind to bring this vision to life. Actress Nidhhi Agerwal also shouldered the responsibility of promoting the film wholeheartedly. I’ve always stood by the people, raising my voice for their concerns. So why would I ever abandon my own film?
This industry gives opportunity regardless of caste, religion, or region. Anyone with talent can rise. That’s why I have deep respect for cinema.”
