What was your first reaction when director Buchi Babu Sana narrated Peddi?
Rathnavelu: I liked the story immediately when Buchi Babu narrated it. It is a very interesting script set nearly 40 years ago in Vizianagaram. Since present-day Vizianagaram has changed a lot, we had to visually recreate an older world through imagination, references and detailed planning. We worked carefully on every visual element, including the clock tower, streets, sugar factory, hills, people and their lifestyle, to make the world of Peddi look organic and believable.
How different is Peddi’s visual style from Rangasthalam?
Rathnavelu: For Rangasthalam, I used a golden-brown tone, which became very popular and is still used as a reference for period films. For Peddi, we tried to recreate the colour and mood people might have experienced in Vizianagaram 40 years ago. The aim was to create a realistic visual feel that keeps the audience connected from the first frame to the last.
What was the most challenging part of shooting Peddi?
Rathnavelu: The cricket match was one of the most complicated portions. Peddi is also a sports-based film, and the second cricket match in the story is a major turning point. I suggested shooting it at night because floodlight matches existed in the 80s, and that mood would elevate the sequence. When seen on screen, it will not feel like just a cricket match; it will look like a battle between two teams. Ram Charan delivered an extraordinary performance in those portions.
What can audiences expect from Ram Charan in Peddi?
Rathnavelu: Audiences will see Ram Charan’s acting range in Peddi. His performance is outstanding. The role is completely different from Chittibabu in Rangasthalam. Charan never compromises until he gets exactly what he wants. His physical transformation for this character is amazing. From his body language and hairstyle to the way he smokes a beedi, everything is designed to suit the character.
What makes the climax special?
Rathnavelu: I cannot reveal much about the climax, but it will be a visual feast for the audience. Along with visual grandeur, it will also have a strong emotional high. The final 30 minutes will deeply move viewers and create a strong emotional connection.
How was it working with Buchi Babu Sana?
Rathnavelu: Buchi Babu has written a wonderful story. He is very clear about what he wants and has executed it beautifully. His character selection, emotional treatment and performances have all come out very well. There is also a Delhi portion in the film that is very special to me. I shot it without artificial light and used film negative after nearly 17 years to bring a real feeling to the journey.
How was the experience of shooting in Sri Lanka?
Rathnavelu: Shooting in Sri Lanka was a special experience. There is a waterfall sequence near a railway track, and no one had shot there before. We worked hard to reach that location. The railway track, tunnel, hills and waterfalls added a beautiful travel mood to the film.
What was it like working with AR Rahman again?
Rathnavelu: This is my third film with AR Rahman after Robo and Lingaa. I had also worked as an assistant on Bombay. Rahman sir is a genius. He has given excellent songs for this film, and the re-recording will also be enjoyed by audiences.
What can you say about producer Satish Kilaru?
Rathnavelu: Satish Kilaru is a wonderful producer and a very good person. He loves cinema deeply and gets very excited when he sees a good visual. He enjoys every moment of filmmaking and shares a strong bond with the team.
Is your son also associated with Peddi?
Rathnavelu: Yes. My son studied cinematography in Canada and has great passion for cinema. He contributed well to Peddi and shot a portion of a wrestling fight beautifully. He also has strong knowledge of colour grading and is now ready to work as a DOP.
All the best for Peddi and your upcoming projects.
Rathnavelu: Thank you.
