Real hero of 'Tungabhadra' is producer Sai Korrapati: Director

Debutante director Srinivas says had it not been for the willingness of producer Sai Korrapati to experiment, his forthcoming Telugu action-drama "Tungabhadra" would not have been made.

"My producer is the real hero of the film. If there's one producer, who dares to experiment in Telugu filmdom, it's got to be Sai Korrapati," Srinivas told IANS.

"The film was completely shot outdoor in a single schedule without a break. One can imagine the pressure on a director in such circumstances, but my producer supported us throughout the shoot. He took the pressure off us," he said.

The film was shot near Guntur and its surrounding areas.

"Most of the shooting happened in live locations. When you're shooting in remote villages, it's not easy to control the crowd who likes dropping in on the sets. It was my producer, who came to our rescue and that's why he's our hero," he said.

Slated for release on Friday, "Tungabhadra" is not a faction film clarifies Srinivas.

"Since it's titled 'Tungabhadra', people came to the conclusion that it's a faction-based story set in Rayalaseema. But the story is set in against the backdrop of villages such as Tadikonda and Karlapudi near Guntur," he said.

"The title refers to the rivers Tunga and Bhadra. Here are two big rivers from different parts coming together to form Tungabhadra. But people born and raised in the same place can't live in harmony. If rivers can meet, why not people. This question is addressed through the film," Srinivas added.

The story will highlight things that divide people.

The film features Adith, Dimple Chopda and senior Tamil actor Sathyaraj in the lead roles.

"When I finished scripting, I felt Sathyaraj sir would be perfect for the role. But I had my reservations about whether he'll work in our small film because he usually works in big-budget projects. After I narrated the script, he instantly agreed to be part of the film," he said.

Srinivas admits that Sathyaraj's presence automatically got his film lot of attention.

Adith was cast after the director was impressed with his look in upcoming Tamil film "Orey Nyabagam".

"Adith and Dimple were cast even before Sathyaraj sir. Both of them worked really hard. Dimple particularly held her nerves and shot with great commitment in live locations amidst thousands of people," he said.

According to Srinivas, "Tungabhadra" is a "beautiful love story" packed with a message.

"The title shouldn't mislead the audience. This is a love story laced with good family sentiments. Most of the story takes place within the family of Sathyaraj sir. He plays the heroine's father and their relationship will be talked about," he said.

The film also stars Charandeep and Kota Srinivas Rao in important roles.