Kannadathi fame Ranjani Raghavan’s directorial debut brings maestro Ilaiyaraaja back to Kannada cinema

Ranjani Raghavan, best known for being a part of Kannada TV serials like Puttagowri Maduve and Kannadathi, while also dabbling with the occasional film acting gig, has turned director. The title of the film was revealed on the occasion of actor Nenapirali Prem’s birthday, who is in the lead in the film, along with Golden Star Ganesh’s son Vihaan. Called Di Di Dikki, the film is currently in production, with Gentleman director and Kaatera writer Jadesha K Hampi serving as producer.

As a debutante director Ranjani realized that she needed the oversight of a more experienced filmmaker to guide her and help give the film the visibility and reach it deserves. Tharun Sudhir and Jadesha were excited by Ranjani’s story and came on board as creative director and producer, respectively. The film, according to Ranjani is an emotional drama with a good dose of humour in it.

Ranjani Raghavan on getting the cast of Di Di Dikki together

Ranjani says that during the writing of the film, after a point, she could only envision Nenapirali Prem as the protagonist, while the child actor’s role was open to auditions initially. The actress-filmmaker says that during the selection process, she came across young talents who she felt were a tad too prepared and did not come across as normal and natural as a 9-year-old should be. When she was then told that Ganesh’s son was in the same age group and approached the Golden Star, he was initially reluctant to get Vihaan to act, preferring instead to have him concentrate on his studies.

However, after constant follow up from the film team, Ganesh eventually gave them the green signal. Vihaan says Ranjani turned out to be the right fit for the character. During the title launch, Charminar -fame Prem revealed that, initially, he was not keen to be a part of the film, as he was looking for something out-of-the-box and not yet another family drama or romantic film. However, when Tharun insisted that he at least listen to the story and then take a call, his decision changed instantaneously.