The promotions are looking very “cool.” How excited are you about the release?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: Honestly, I am not cool at all (laughs). My film is releasing after three years. We promoted “Mem Famous” very aggressively, and we are doing the same for this film too. To reach the audience today, promotions need to feel fresh and creative. Since the film is releasing in summer, we came up with this “cool” concept for the campaign.
What can audiences expect from “Godari Gattupaina”?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: It is a super cute family entertainer set against the Godavari backdrop. The film has beautiful love moments and strong father-daughter emotions. Jagapathi Babu plays a very important role. Audiences will see him in a soft and lovable character similar to his classic family films.
How challenging was it to perform in the Godavari dialect?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: I was born and brought up in Telangana, so learning the Godavari slang was exciting for me. I practiced for almost four months because I wanted people from that region to feel that I spoke naturally like them.
What made you accept this story?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: After “Mem Famous,” I heard many stories but wanted something emotionally fresh. That’s when director Subhash garu narrated this script. He has already made around 100 short films, and his storytelling style impressed me. The Godavari backdrop felt like a new challenge and gave me great scope for performance.
Tell us about your character in the film.
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: I play an auto driver, but unlike regular mass portrayals, this character is innocent and adorable. He values family and friendships deeply. There is also an auto race sequence in the film, and I trained specially for it. The movie has fun, emotions, and very well-written characters.
Since you are also a director, did you give suggestions on set?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: Not at all. Subhash garu worked very hard on the script and had complete clarity about his vision. I fully surrendered to his direction. I only took charge of the promotions (laughs).
How was it working with Devi Prasad garu?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: He played my father in the film. He shared many valuable suggestions and life experiences with me. Working with him was a wonderful experience.
Tell us about the music in the film.
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: Nagavamsi composed superb music. The songs are already getting a very good response, and the background score will also entertain audiences.
There’s an interesting story behind your name, right?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: My real name is Sumanth. Back in the Facebook days, there was a trend of adding your favorite hero’s name to your profile. That’s how I became “Sumanth Prabhas,” and the name just stayed (laughs).
The promotional videos are very creative. Whose idea was it?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: They were all my ideas. I wrote and directed those videos myself. Today, promotions need to feel innovative to connect with audiences. All those videos are getting millions of views, and audiences will feel the same cool vibe while watching the movie too.
What would you like to say about producer Abhinav?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: Abhinav garu is a wonderful producer. He gave complete freedom to the director and never compromised on quality. We shot the entire film in real locations. Jagapathi Babu garu was very impressed with the locations and was extremely friendly with all of us.
Tell us about Jagapathi Babu and Nidhi’s roles.
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: Both characters are emotionally very strong. Jagapathi Babu garu and Laila garu share a lovely chemistry in the film. Nidhi learned Telugu very well and delivered a fantastic performance. The film has a beautiful family vibe throughout.
Was there any story you rejected that later became a hit?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: Sai Rajesh anna narrated “Raju Weds Rambai” to me. I loved the script, but since I had already done a Telangana-based film with “Mem Famous,” I didn’t want to repeat the same flavor again. Later Akhil did it, and it worked well for him. I’m happy another talented actor got recognition.
Mahesh Babu supported your first film, and now one of his songs inspired your title. How does that feel?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: It feels very special. Mahesh Babu supporting my first film gave me huge encouragement. He always supports new talent, and I will always remember his words about making a film under his banner if I come with a good script.
What about your upcoming projects?
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: One more film is already completed, and the details will be announced soon. From now on, I want to do back-to-back films without long gaps.
All The Best
Actor Sumanth Prabhas: Thank You.