Jr NTR on Casting Jahnvi Kapoor and Saif: Devara Aims for National Impact
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Do superstars feel anxious before a film’s release? Despite their guaranteed box office success, the excitement and pressure remain palpable. They understand that audiences will flock to theaters, even without extensive promotion, and that records are meant to be both set and surpassed. Yet, the nerves linger. “I am very nervous sitting here,” admits Jr NTR, who has delivered numerous blockbuster hits and starred in the critically acclaimed *RRR*, which garnered two Oscars and gained international acclaim.
“Honestly, I’m feeling quite tense. There’s a lot at stake with *Devara*, my first solo project in six years since *Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava*. While *RRR* was directed by the legendary Rajamouli, this time the responsibility rests heavily on us. We know the outcome is beyond our control, but I have immense faith in my team and the talented crew behind *Devara*. They’ve put in tremendous effort to create something special.”
Anirudh Ravichander: The Creative Force Behind *Devara*
Before it was officially announced that Anirudh Ravichander would be composing the music for *Devara*, fans were already expressing their desire for him to be involved by trending hashtags like “We want Ani for NTR 30.” The enthusiasm among Jr NTR’s fans to elevate his performance through Anirudh’s music was palpable. Following the release of the teaser, songs, and trailer, it became clear that the audience’s instincts were spot on. “Anirudh has been incredible.
This is truly his era. While many artists experience fleeting success, Anirudh’s talent is here to stay,” Jr NTR remarks enthusiastically, using the promotional phase to highlight Anirudh’s contributions. “His dedication to his craft is phenomenal. Filmmakers often need quick results, but Anirudh never compromises on quality. He understands the vital role music plays in our films.”
Reflecting on his appreciation for Anirudh’s work, Jr NTR pointed to the successes of *Jailer* and *Vikram*. “I can’t recall the last time I felt so energized seeing Rajinikanth on screen. Anirudh’s music added significant value to those films. He was exceptional in both *Vikram* and *Master*. I firmly believe he is destined to reach the same heights as AR Rahman and will compose for international projects. That’s my vision for him.”
*Devara*: A Divine Journey
Set to be released in two parts, *Devara* is being marketed as a pan-Indian film. With a star-studded cast that includes Jahnvi Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan making their South Indian debuts, the creators have ensured that the film appeals to a broad audience. “Devara translates to ‘god,’ similar to ‘Devata.’ It resonates with the local deities in villages. Just like *RRR*, we aimed for a title that would connect with viewers across the nation,” explains Jr NTR, revealing that his characters are named Devara and Vara. “This is undoubtedly my most ambitious project, aside from my collaborations with Rajamouli.”
Crafting the World of *Devara*
While *Devara* may initially appear to be another action-packed film featuring one of India’s biggest stars, those involved in its production emphasize that it offers a rich narrative and impressive technical execution. “The film is complex, particularly concerning the VFX shots. VFX isn’t merely about adding fire or breaking glass; it’s an art form in itself. Rajamouli excels at it, but it’s not something everyone can master,” Jr NTR notes, highlighting the meticulous efforts behind the film’s visual effects, especially for underwater sequences.
“Creating realistic water effects through VFX is incredibly challenging, yet we’ve achieved remarkable results. We constructed a massive 200-foot tank for boat scenes and an international-standard swimming pool for the underwater shots, with boats designed for actual water travel,” he explains, praising the remarkable talent of production designer Sabu Cyril. “We live in an age where some people dismiss all efforts as mere ‘VFX,’ but behind the scenes, so much work goes into making everything look authentic. Sabu sir is truly gifted.”
A Stellar Cast and the Power of Manifestation
While *Devara* is primarily anchored by Jr NTR, it also features some of the finest actors in Indian cinema, including Saif Ali Khan, Kalaiyarasan, Prakash Raj, Meka Srikanth, and Jahnvi Kapoor. Interestingly, Jahnvi is making her Telugu debut alongside Jr NTR, which holds significance as her late mother, Sridevi, was a legendary actress known for her iconic pairings with Jr NTR’s grandfather, NT Rama Rao. In many ways, *Devara* represents a homecoming for Jahnvi.
“While writing the script, we hadn’t initially cast the female lead. However, Jahnvi manifested her desire for the role so strongly that by the end of the writing process, it felt right to cast her,” shares Jr NTR. He also notes that Jahnvi had some apprehensions about performing in Telugu and living up to her mother’s legacy. “Let’s be honest, Sridevi will always be a part of our lives, and that legacy remains with Jahnvi. However, she astonished us with her performance.”
He also praised his co-stars, noting that Saif Ali Khan was brought in to portray the formidable character Bhairava. “We aimed to create a character as memorable as his Langda Tyagi from *Omkara*. Even Saif mentioned this role was something entirely new for him. We wanted him to have a strong presence in the story,” Jr NTR elaborates, praising the performances of Kalaiyarasan and Shine Tom Chacko, who also took on roles that challenged their usual portrayals.
The Pan-Indian Trend
In the wake of the monumental successes of *Baahubali* and *RRR*, there’s a growing trend among Indian superstars to create pan-Indian films released simultaneously in multiple languages. Jr NTR is acutely aware of the pressures that come with this trend, especially after the international acclaim of *RRR*. However, he emphasizes that he is not focused on merely making films for a pan-Indian audience. “I believe in pushing stories that are genuinely compelling. It’s crucial to recognize the narrative’s strength,” he explains.
The decision to release *Devara* in two parts was influenced by the story’s depth. “If audiences were open to a five-hour film, I would have released it as a single installment. There’s a stigma attached to films exceeding 180 minutes. Yet, look at the success of *Animal*—it’s all about storytelling,” he states confidently.
Jr NTR is convinced that it is the writer and director’s conviction that transforms a rooted film into a pan-Indian sensation. “Take Rishab Shetty’s *Kantara* as an example. My mother is a Kannadiga, and I grew up hearing stories about Guliga and Panjurli. I never expected that film to resonate so deeply with audiences, but it did, proving that the story ultimately determines its audience.”
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