How did your journey with Sing Geetham begin?
Shalini Kondepudi: Before this film, I acted in Jayamma Panchayathi, Subham and My Dear Donga. Through some known people, I came to know that there was a character with negative shades in this film. When I heard that it was a film by Singeetam Srinivasa Rao garu, I decided that I should do it, whatever the role may be. I attended the audition, and after about a month, I was selected.
This is a genre that has not been explored like this before. Everything in the film has a musical feel. Every artist needed to know how to sing in tune to some extent, and we went through many workshops for that.
What kind of story is Sing Geetham? How was it working under Singeetam Srinivasa Rao’s direction?
Shalini Kondepudi: Singeetam garu had this story idea many years ago, but it still feels very relevant today. Every dialogue in the film is musical. Even the conversations move like songs.
The recently released song may have given audiences some idea about the tone of the film. But why are all the characters speaking in a musical way? What is the reason behind it? That will be understood only when people watch the movie. Singeetam garu personally supervised every detail. The film has been made according to his vision, and I feel lucky to have worked under his direction.
Is this a fictional story?
Shalini Kondepudi: Yes, the story takes place in a fictional village called Kuberapuram. What happens in that village and why everyone speaks in the form of songs are things that audiences should enjoy in theatres.
This is a completely original concept. We did not have any film reference for this. Our only reference was the vision of Singeetam garu and Nag Ashwin garu. Nag Ashwin garu’s vision and sensibility can also be seen in the film.I can say that this is one of the most unique musical comedy films in Indian cinema. Like Singeetam garu’s earlier films, this one will also give audiences a fresh and different experience.
Tell us about your character in the film.
Shalini Kondepudi: In Singeetam garu’s films, every character has a special importance in the story. The villain role I played is also very strong. My character is someone who wants to achieve what she has decided. She strongly believes that what she thinks is the truth.
There are many shades in this role. It also has entertainment value. It is a very important character in the story. Along with the hero and heroine’s characters, my role will also be very entertaining. Roles like this do not come often.Not everyone gets the chance to act in such a unique story. Through this film, we got that rare opportunity.
What was the most challenging part of this film?
Shalini Kondepudi: Many actors can sing songs, but in this film, we had to sing the dialogues like songs. That was the real challenge. Usually, singers have one voice while singing and another while speaking. But here, speaking itself becomes singing. That was a very difficult process.
Devi Sri Prasad garu has given wonderful music for the film. He beautifully turned dialogues into music. His music has become a major strength for the movie. I also learned many things through this film. It has been made completely in Singeetam garu’s style. As an audience member, I enjoyed the film a lot.
What would you like to say about the producers?
Shalini Kondepudi: Vyjayanthi Movies and Swapna Cinema are very passionate producers. They are also very friendly. Unless there is real love for cinema, it is not possible to make such new and experimental films.
They have made this film with a lot of honesty. I sincerely hope the film becomes a big success. When such fresh films succeed, many more people will come forward with new ideas.
You seem to be very selective about films. Is that true?
Shalini Kondepudi: I always look for good stories and good roles. If such roles come, I would love to do one film every month.
What are your next projects?
Shalini Kondepudi: I wrote my earlier film My Dear Donga. My next film will be directed by me, and I am also writing the story. I felt that since I am writing it, it would be better if I direct it myself. It is being made in the comedy genre. I love making films that make audiences laugh.
