The team behind Chennai Love Story hosted a packed pre-release celebration in Hyderabad ahead of its worldwide theatrical debut on July 23 evening. Produced by SKN and Sai Rajesh under Amrutha Productions and Mass Movie Makers, the project reunites the team behind critical successes such as Color Photo and Baby. Sai Rajesh penned the narrative, while debutant Ravi Namburi directed the feature. Music composer Mani Sharma scored the film's soundtrack. Megastar Chiranjeevi joined the occasion as the chief guest.
The supporting cast and technical team expressed strong confidence in the film's narrative beats and emotional resonant moments during their addresses. VK Naresh mentioned his participation in a key role, crediting director Ravi Namburi with shaping his character. He noted that the positive reception to the trailer and soundtrack reflects the general quality of the final product. Actress Siri Hanumanthu explained that the central group of characters functions as a tight-knit squad of friends throughout the narrative arc. She noted that advanced ticket bookings opened smoothly following the strong online response to promotional materials.
Actress Pooja detailed her experience on set, sharing that the director provided detailed breakdowns for her character. She remarked on the comfortable environment maintained by the production crew during the shooting schedules. Actor Naveen praised lead actress Sri Gouri Priya, highlighting her character, Nivi, as a major emotional anchor. He noted that her performance balances humor and dramatic weight, making the character relatable to the audience.
Director of Photography Daniel Viswas outlined his visual approach, explaining that the emotional weight of the script drew him to the project initially. He stated that lead actor Kiran delivers a deeply grounded performance, while Sri Gouri Priya demonstrates artistic range.
Trigun, who appears in a specialized guest role, compared his character's function to an impact player in sports. He acknowledged Kiran's independent career trajectory in the industry. He added that the production rests on the combined efforts of director Ravi Namburi alongside producers SKN and Sai Rajesh, while noting the contribution of Mani Sharma's musical score.
Lyricist Anantha Sriram added that the production team's willingness to back a non-conventional narrative. He stated that producer SKN showed notable conviction in financing the project. He added that debut director Ravi Namburi executed the film with visual clarity, using seven narrative-driven songs to advance the plot.
Director Shiva Nirvana offered an outside perspective on the production, praising the producers for delivering another emotionally intense romance shortly after their previous success. He noted that in an era dominated by digital streaming metrics, the team prioritized theatrical, human-driven storytelling with a strong core cast.
The lead actors and the directing team detailed the effort involved in bringing the script to the screen, focusing on character depth and collaborative execution.
Lead actress Sri Gouri Priya described her role as a pivotal assignment early in her career. She detailed her character as one carrying substantial emotional responsibility, personal pride, and specific attitude traits. She credited director Ravi Namburi for providing clear guidance on set and noted that sharing scenes with Kiran allowed her to see his commitment to the role of Steven firsthand.
Director Ravi Namburi reflected on his journey to the director's chair, acknowledging his mentor, director Maruthi, for identifying his potential early on. He recounted how producer Sai Rajesh offered him the opportunity to direct Chennai Love Story following their collaboration on Baby. Namburi praised the dedication of both lead actors, singling out a specific sequence performed by Gouri Priya in the second half of the film as a standout dramatic moment. He also highlighted Kiran's trust in a first-time director.
Lead actor Kiran reflected on his personal journey from watching industry events as an audience member in his hometown to sharing the stage with Megastar Chiranjeevi. He noted the inspiration he drew from veteran industry figures throughout his formative years. Speaking about his role, he stated that playing Steven Shankar allowed him to connect with the material on a personal level. He stressed that the dynamic between his character and Gouri Priya's character, Nivi, forms the backbone of the story. He urged audiences to experience the film in theaters with their families, expressing confidence in the writing of Ravi Namburi and the overall production quality.
Prominent industry producers shared their views on the film's market performance and production values.
Producer Naveen Yerneni noted that the early promotional footage signaled strong theatrical potential. He expressed his confidence in the project's box-office outlook. Producer Ravi Shankar pointed to the rapid ticket sales for premiere shows across Telugu states as evidence of strong audience demand. He noted that the production team of SKN, Sai Rajesh, and Dheeraj has built a reputation for high-impact emotional dramas, which bodes well for this release.
Producer and story writer Sai Rajesh recalled his conversation with Megastar Chiranjeevi, explaining how the veteran actor accepted the invitation to support the young team without hesitation. He highlighted the personal significance of hosting the event at Shilpakala Vedika, a venue tied to numerous historic fan gatherings.
Producer SKN outlined the production philosophy behind the banner, stating that he and Sai Rajesh focus entirely on narrative quality and production values rather than standard commercial metrics. He commended Kiran for committing to the script immediately upon hearing it. SKN confirmed that early evening premiere screenings were organized across major centers to allow audiences early access to what he described as an honest, feel-good family drama.
Chiranjeevi shared that the title Chennai Love Story immediately triggered memories of his early career struggles. He recalled visiting various film studios in Chennai as a young hopeful, driving through the same streets years later after establishing his career. He noted that the city holds a unique significance for his personal and professional evolution. He explained that his presence at the event was driven by a desire to support a team composed of young creators and long-time admirers. He noted that seeing fans transition into successful professional roles within the film industry brings him immense satisfaction. He added that personal career achievement, ethical living, and societal contribution represent the highest form of support a fan can offer an artist.
Reflecting on individual team members, Chiranjeevi commended producer SKN's career progression from a media professional and public relations officer to a film producer. He praised Sai Rajesh's achievements, referencing his National Film Award recognition as evidence of high-level storytelling ability. Chiranjeevi praised director Ravi Namburi and the team for pursuing ambitious goals despite modest backgrounds. He counseled aspiring artists to step outside their comfort zones, embrace hard work, and maximize every professional opportunity presented to them. Reflecting on his own career beginnings alongside established legends like NTR and ANR, Chiranjeevi explained that finding a unique identity through relentless effort was necessary to carve out his own space in cinema. "Kiran Abbavaram looks like the boy next door. He didn't just watch Chiranjeevi's films in theatres. So he thought, 'Why can't I become like him?' He worked hard and reached this stage. Today, he has become an inspiration for many newcomers. He has already delivered four or five successful films and earned the audience's affection. I am confident that Chennai Love Story will bring him even more love and appreciation from viewers. The industry needs more fresh talent like Kiran. That is what keeps the industry healthy and thriving. Gouri Priya is as beautiful as a finely crafted doll. She is a Telugu girl who is also earning recognition through Tamil films. Mani Sharma is like a brother to me. I have entertained audiences by dancing to so many wonderful songs he has composed over the years. Finally, I would like to congratulate Ravi and Naveen of Mythri, who are supporting this film by distributing it," he added.
