Director Lakshmi Sowjanya on Varudu Kaavalenu: Men and women will identify with the film equally

It's not every day that a first-time female director bags an opportunity to debut in a popular banner and gets to cast prominent lead actors and technicians in her film without any budgetary compromises. This is exactly the reason why debutante Lakshmi Sowjanya, the director of this week's release Varudu Kaavalenu, stands apart from the rest. Her romantic comedy starring Naga Shaurya, Ritu Varma in lead roles is produced by S Naga Vamsi under Sithara Entertainments and is slated to release on October 29. She opened up about its making in a recent interaction with the media.

Varudu Kaavalenu's lead characters Akash and Bhoomi are inspired by two of Sowjanya's real-life friends. While Akash, an architect by profession, is a jovial, broad-minded and free-spirited man, Bhoomi, an entrepreneur, has a mind of her own and is firm with her stance. "I always pick stories from my surroundings. These are people I have encountered in my life and I wondered what would happen if they are in a relationship. The on-screen chemistry of Naga Shaurya and Ritu has worked out well. This is a full-on entertainer."

She first narrated the story to China Babu (father of the producer S Naga Vamsi) who liked her story and asked to develop it further. The film's shoot was delayed many times owing to the first and second waves of COVID-19. "The lead actors have made it easy for me. It's wonderful to have an experienced cast for my debut. I am particularly excited about Nadhiya's (garu) role in it," Sowjanya adds. The first-time director is slightly nervous about the result but states that she's enjoying this process of bringing the film out for audiences.

Lakshmi Sowjanya makes it clear that the film's intent is not to send out any particular message but is only meant to entertain crowds. "It's a film that will be liked by men and women equally. Boys will understand what it takes to win over a girl while the women will relate with Bhoomi's character completely." Stating that hiring two composers for the film, Vishal Chandrasekhar and Thaman, was a conscious choice, she adds, "We wanted Thaman (garu) for the folk numbers while Vishal has done a fantastic job with the other tunes. Music plays a crucial role in taking the story forward."

The director is working on a couple of scripts for upcoming future films. On the cards is a film revolving around the identity of a protagonist where his 'Aadhar card' is involved. Sowjanya is well aware of the responsibilities of a director and hopes to make movies that educate, inform and entertain in the future. 

Also read: Naga Shaurya is confident that Varudu Kaavalenu will be a sure shot blockbuster