Priyadarshi, the versatile star, takes on the titular role in Sarangapani Jatakam, a comedic gem directed by Indraganti Mohana Krishna. Following their successful collaborations on Gentleman and Sammohanam, Indraganti teams up again with producer Sivalenka Krishna Prasad for this film, set to hit theaters on April 25, 2025, under the esteemed Sridevi Movies banner. Rupa Kodavayur stars as the female lead, with Vennela Kishore, Viva Harsha, Avasarala Srinivas, and Sai Srinivas Vadlamani in pivotal roles. The film boasts stunning visuals by cinematographer PG Vinda, a vibrant score by Vivek Sagar, and sharp editing by Venkatesh K Marthand. The trailer, recently unveiled, has garnered widespread praise. During the promotional campaign, Indraganti shared insights with the media.
Q: It’s been a while since we’ve seen a full-fledged comedy like those of Jandhyala or EVV. How did this project come together?
Indraganti: Telugu cinema used to produce five or six pure comedies annually, but that’s dwindled as action films dominate. Even when comedies are made, they often rely on a few funny scenes rather than story-driven humor. For the past five or six years, I’ve wanted to create a comedy rooted in a strong narrative. I had a basic concept in mind. After Yashoda, producer Sivalenka Krishna Prasad suggested we collaborate again, as it had been five years since Sammohanam. I pitched my idea, and he loved it. Around the same time, I was impressed by Priyadarshi’s performances in Balagam, Save the Tigers, and Mail on Aha. I knew he’d be perfect for a humorous role. When I discussed it with him, he was immediately on board. We finalized the project in November 2023 and began shooting in March 2024.
Q: What kind of experience will Sarangapani Jatakam offer?
Indraganti: Unlike typical comedies with a standard roster of comedians, this film features every actor in fresh, unique roles. It’s a light-hearted, fun-filled ride designed not just for laughs in the theater but to leave a lasting impression—something audiences will talk about for days. This project brought me immense satisfaction. Most filmmakers face some regrets—technical or budgetary—but with this film, those were minimal. With a stellar cast and the freedom to execute my vision, I’m thrilled with how it turned out.
Q: The film revolves around astrology. How much do you believe in horoscopes, and what research did you do?
Indraganti: I approach every subject with thorough preparation. On astrology, I’m neutral—some predictions have come true, others haven’t. For instance, in 2015, a friend who reads palms warned me about a possible accident in 2016 if I traveled without a driver. I forgot his advice, but in July 2016, just before Gentleman’s release, I had a major accident. Another astrologer predicted I wouldn’t make my first film until age 32, and sure enough, I debuted at that age. But not all predictions have materialized, so I’m still exploring the subject.
In Sarangapani Jatakam, we don’t mock beliefs. Instead, we explore how constructive beliefs empower us, while blind beliefs weaken us, leading to chaos. We’ve conveyed this through comedy, without preaching. Every character is distinct—Priyadarshi’s hero works in automobiles, and Vennela Kishore’s character, a service consultant, speaks in car-related metaphors. We’ve crafted each role to be memorable while respecting personal beliefs.
Q: Does creative freedom today require extra caution compared to the past?
Indraganti: There’s nothing provocative in this film, but I was still cautious to avoid unnecessary controversy. My message is simple: personal beliefs are fine, but they shouldn’t harm others. We’ve presented this humorously. If someone still takes issue, there’s little we can do. I’m not calling astrology superstition or ridiculing believers—some predictions have worked for me. That’s why astrologers in the film are portrayed seriously, not as comic figures.
Q: Does the hero practice astrology or simply believe in it?
Indraganti: The hero is a believer. Astrology is a complex science with intricate details in almanacs—you can’t dismiss it outright. My goal isn’t to question or deride it but to show that blind adherence can lead to trouble. Believe or don’t—it’s your choice—but the film highlights the consequences of excess.
Q: The teaser focuses on astrology, but the trailer suggests suspense. What’s the vibe?
Indraganti: It’s a family-friendly astrological crime comedy. There’s no violence, but a criminal element drives the humor, centered on how a middle-class car shop employee navigates it. The mix of astrology and comedy with a touch of suspense makes it unique (laughs).
Q: Since your debut with Grahanam in 2004, what’s changed in these two decades?
Indraganti: The biggest shift is attention spans. Phones have created a barrier between the audience and the screen. During a hero’s intro, you’ll see dozens of phones light up. Once, theaters were immersive; now, we compete with a parallel digital world. The challenge is keeping phones in pockets. Fast edits alone won’t do it—emotional engagement is key. Films like Premam succeeded because they connected emotionally, not because they were fast-paced. Audiences now seek emotional experiences, not just entertainment, or they’ll stick to OTT platforms.
Addressing Perceived Struggles
Q: You were celebrated as a promising director early on. Why does it seem like you’re struggling now?
Indraganti: Adapting to evolving audience sensibilities is tough. Post-COVID, I faced confusion. V went straight to OTT, and its success was hard to gauge, though it earned well. Aa Ammayi Gurinchi Meeku Cheppali got delayed and didn’t land as planned. I realized my strength lies in entertaining audiences, particularly through comedy. My earlier films had humor, but with this one, I aimed to appeal to both older and younger viewers. Success isn’t constant—it’s a myth—but we keep pushing forward.
Collaboration with Sridevi Movies
Q: This is your third film with Sridevi Movies and Sivalenka Krishna Prasad. How was the support?
Indraganti: Our past films, Gentleman and Sammohanam, were hits, and we share a strong director-producer bond. For this film, Sivalenka gave me complete creative freedom. I have no regrets—I made the film exactly as I wanted, thanks to his passion for cinema.
