Though the two Telugu mega-films — Gautamiputra Satkarni (GS) and Khaidi No. 150 — pitching the two veteran actors Balakrishna and Chiranjeevi were slotted for release during the same week for Sankranti, a direct clash was avoided.
Explains GS director Krish, “My friend Ramcharan Tej turns producer with Khaidi... and I didn’t discuss a release strategy but I believe a day’s gap between the films would benefit both.”
Krish is very excited about his film. “I am anxious to see how audiences react to my telling of a story of an unsung warrior-emperor, who has a historical significance in celebrating Gudi Padwa or Ugadi or other Hindu New Year variations.”
Is the director daunted by the prospect of two stalwart actors being pitched against one another at another at the box office?
“It’s just a big coincidence. But Sankranti is a great season for movies as every year, three to four films release and take the advantage of the festival.
“Secondly, both the films are of a different genre and I’m sure most of the audience will see both these films as we always watch all Sankranti releases,” says Krish.
Krish is supportive of his rival film. “Khaidi... is the comeback of a megastar and everyone is eagerly waiting for it. The look and feel of the movie is very exciting. I’m sure V.V. Vinayak made an extraordinary movie for Chiranjeevi and I wish Ram Charan a grand success on his debut film as a producer.”
What about the ‘X’ factor? Laughs Krish, “XXX: The Return Of Xander Cage has its own audience but here, everyone is looking at the two mega releases with great expectations. As for demonetisation Dangal has proved it’s not money, it’s the quality that matters.”
