At the pre-release event for their upcoming film, Ustaad Bhagat Singh, the cast and crew gathered to share insights into a journey that spanned years, survived a global pandemic, and witnessed a historic political shift for its leading man. The film, produced under the prestigious Mythri Movie Makers banner, is being positioned as more than just blockbuster cinema.
Addressing the gathering, Pawan Kalyan reflected on his dual life as a cinema icon and the Deputy Chief Minister. Despite his heavy political mantle, the actor expressed deep pride in the Telugu film industry’s global ascent. He noted that reaching the Oscar level is a monumental achievement for everyone involved (referring to RRR's Naatu Naatu win). He stated firmly that he never worries about how much money a film collects because he just wants the film to be good. He added his vision of a borderless industry, viewing his work not as Tamil or Telugu cinema, but as Indian cinema.
The Deputy CM of AP revealed that the project was completed in a remarkably tight window of 40 to 45 days. He further credited director Harish Shankar’s meticulous planning for allowing him to fulfill his official responsibilities while shooting only five to six hours a day. He admitted that the experience of filming UBS had renewed his confidence in his ability to continue his acting career alongside his public service. Kalyan was also effusive in his praise for the technical team, specifically thanking music directors Devi Sri Prasad and Thaman, as well as the production house. He mentioned that Naveen Yerneni always told him he wanted to make a film like Gabbar Singh with him, something UBS has materialized.
Director Harish Shankar opened up about the creative evolution of the project. He revealed that the film was originally envisioned as a spiritual successor to Kushi, set in a college where two former lovers reunite as lecturers. He ditched that line in favour of a more hero-centric storyline. The DJ and Gaddalakonda Ganesh maker declared that if Pawan Kalyan is the hero on screen, then DSP is the hero behind the screen. The director grew emotional when discussing Kalyan's utmost dedication. He shared that there were many occasions where the actor-politician would spend the entire day in public service and arrive at the set late at night to shoot. PSPK had everyone on their toes with his work ethic. He added that fans would finally see the iconic dance moves of Pawan Kalyan that they have been eagerly waiting for, and noted that while people usually think of Sreeleela for her dancing, in this film, everyone will talk about her performance. (She is apparently the movie's first heroine).
While the OG actor praised Sreeleela as a great dancer and performer, Raashi Khanna spoke at length about the personal impact of working with the actor she calls a People’s Star. She revealed that she signed the film without even hearing the story. She described the experience as a sacred mission led by Harish Shankar’s honesty and tireless work ethic. She shared that she learned many things by watching him, such as staying positive, being aware of things happening in the world, and loving nature.
Producer Naveen Yerneni admitted that after Kalyan assumed his political office, the production team hesitated to even approach him about the film, but the actor reassured them himself. Yerneni stated that Harish Shankar has crafted a film on a scale even bigger than Gabbar Singh. Ravi Shankar Y described the film as one of the most super-duper commercial films he has seen in recent history. He noted that for a long time, there was a void in their banner because they hadn't worked with Kalyan, and that Ustaad Bhagat Singh has completely filled that gap. He mentioned that he has seen the film's output and is very confident about the result, promising that it will keep the audience entertained from start to finish.
Pawan Kalyan noted that he believes his films should provide a good message alongside entertainment. The film boasts a stellar technical crew, including art director Anand Sai, who built the largest set in the history of the production house for the song Collar Ey Etthara. The film, co-starring R Parthiban, Rao Ramesh and KS Ravi Kumar, is enjoying maximum hype.
Ustaad Bhagat Singh is heading to theatres on March 19.
