Telugu cinema fans are in for a nostalgic delight as the iconic socio-fantasy film Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari (JVAS) returns to theatres on May 9, 2025, celebrating its 35th anniversary in stunning 4K 2D and 3D formats. Known for its breathtaking visuals, captivating storyline, and unforgettable music, JVAS remains a cornerstone of Telugu cinema.
Directed by the legendary K. Raghavendra Rao and produced by Ashwini Dutt under Vyjayanthi Movies, JVAS stars Megastar Chiranjeevi and the iconic Sridevi. This collaboration of cinematic giants created a timeless masterpiece. Ahead of the re-release, Chiranjeevi, Raghavendra Rao, and Dutt came together for a special interview, The Magical Reunion, sharing cherished memories and fascinating trivia. Here’s a summary:
On the 35th Anniversary Re-Release
Raghavendra Rao: “It’s like revisiting Indralokam. This film holds a special place in our hearts.”
Chiranjeevi: “It’s surreal that 35 years have passed. Every moment remains vivid.”
Ashwini Dutt: “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for Chiranjeevi garu and Raghavendra Rao garu.”
Chiranjeevi and Sridevi’s Chemistry
Chiranjeevi noted that while he worked with Sridevi in earlier films like Rani Kasula Rangamma, JVAS was where their chemistry truly shone, making it feel like their first major collaboration.
The Making of JVAS
Raghavendra Rao: Despite a string of flops, Chiranjeevi and Dutt trusted him to helm JVAS. “Their belief gave me this opportunity.”
Chiranjeevi: “We loved the story and insisted on Raghavendra Rao, even when others doubted him. Without him, we wouldn’t have proceeded.”
Ilaiyaraja’s Musical Magic
Raghavendra Rao: “Ilaiyaraja garu revolutionized Telugu cinema’s sound. He’s the true Jagadeka Veerudu.”
Chiranjeevi: “All six chartbuster songs were composed in just 3–4 hours. For Abbani Theeyani Debba, we gave a brief in the morning, and by lunch, Ilaiyaraja garu and Veturi garu had the tune and lyrics ready.”
The song was filmed in 1.5 days across Bangalore and Ooty.
Chiranjeevi’s Dedication
Chiranjeevi shared that he shot the song Dhinakutta with a 105-degree fever, resting between takes to meet the release deadline. “After the shoot, I was hospitalized and regained consciousness after two days.”
Technical Brilliance
Raghavendra Rao: Art director Chalam recreated Kashmir’s snow on the 8th floor of Vijaya Vauhini Studios, while cinematographer Vincent used polythene and Vaseline for a magical effect, without any VFX.
Chiranjeevi: A scene of Sridevi ascending to her celestial world was shot in a day, a feat that would cost crores today.
Unforgettable Memories
Raghavendra Rao: “Even during a massive cyclone in Andhra Pradesh, fans flocked to theatres. That craze is unrepeatable.”
Chiranjeevi: The film’s suspense about the ring swallowed by a fish sparked curiosity, much like Baahubali’s cliffhanger.
A Sequel with Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor?
Chiranjeevi proposed a sequel or remake starring Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor, produced by Ashwini Dutt’s daughters, directed by Nag Ashwin, and guided by Raghavendra Rao. “It would be historic.”
Ram Charan’s Tribute
Ram Charan joined the conversation, praising the “dream team” of Chiranjeevi, Sridevi, Raghavendra Rao, Dutt, Ilaiyaraja, and others. “JVAS is a magical, adventurous, romantic masterpiece. The song Jai Chiranjeeva Jagadeka Veera may have made me a Hanuman devotee.” He playfully demanded Nag Ashwin resolve the mystery of the ring and the fish for a potential sequel.
A Family Experience
Fans shared nostalgic memories of watching JVAS 35 years ago and expressed excitement about reliving the magic with their families. The team hopes new generations will experience JVAS’s charm in theatres starting May 9, 2025.
