Major director Sashi Kiran Tikka: The warm hug from Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s mother proved we were honest in our efforts

There’s no stopping Major, the biopic of army man Sandeep Unnikrishnan, ever since it released across multiple languages on June 3. From standing ovations to glowing reviews and box office collections, the film is enjoying a dream run, resonating with crowds of all age groups across the country. This is the second straight blockbuster for director Sashi Kiran Tikka after Goodachari, both starring Adivi Sesh.

“I am glad to have been a part of a film that many are revering today. The film is performing well in Telugu and Hindi and the fact that it stood tall at the box office amidst Vikram and Samrat Prithviraj is a big deal for our team. I think we’ve stayed true to the promise we made to Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s parents. I’m thrilled that people like Allu Arjun, Rana have appreciated it,” Sashi said.

“Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s mother warmly hugged me after the first screening and it proved that we were honest in our efforts,” he added. The director said that nearly 40% of the film was wrapped in a span of three months prior to the pandemic. “The ‘major’ challenge was the with lockdown and getting the dates of Prakash Raj and Revathi later. We somehow pulled it off.”

It’s no secret that Sesh and Sashi have been friends for long now. “Goodachari and Major were literally our babies. More than fame, I believe in making a good film and want to be satisfied of my product. Making a good film is what matters at the end of the day and you’ll naturally become famous. Cinema is always a collective effort,” Sashi Kiran Tikka stated.

Though he’s not directing Goodachari 2 with Sesh, the filmmaker is confident that he’ll direct films in the same franchise in the future. He is conscious about the name the Major has earned and wants to make his next move carefully. He aims to direct a film set in the pre-independence backdrop too. “I am in no hurry, I want to be sure of my script and make at least one film a year.”

Sashi believes these are good times for new directors in the industry. “Provided you have a passion for storytelling, there’s immense scope to flourish in films and OTT alike. One can’t wait for things to happen; it’s important to create opportunities for yourself. When I began my career, I didn’t have so many avenues. Aspirants must make good use of this,” he signs off.