The month’s first hit

Kanche tells a story not many have paid much attention to. It’s also this month’s fastest-rising release, beating massive productions such as Ram Charan’s Bruce Lee.

And director Krish —who has made only four Telugu films in his eight-year-old career — is delighted with the way his film has turned out.

Also, take note Tollywood because period dramas seem to be making a comeback into mainstream Telugu cinema.

“During my research, I found out that over 2,000 Telugus had fought in WW-II and that 18 of them were still getting pensions.

“There were 2.5 million Indians overall who had participated, and everyone had a story,” he says. These little-known facts even surprised the lead actors, including the film’s protagonist, Varun Tej.

“Varun too didn’t know of this piece of history which is related to us. But later he got excited and was ready for it. Meanwhile, I gave the tag ‘Mega Prince Varun Tej’ in the film’s credits but when Varun saw it, he called me immediately and asked me to remove the tag. He told me, ‘not for this film, because it’s a different genre’. That shows his maturity,” adds Krish.

There was also a plan to make Kanche in Hindi. “When I told people about the plot, many opposed the idea saying ‘who will watch this kind of film in Telugu?’ So, I silently finished the film. And after I released the promos, I started getting calls. This is easily the best film I have made so far. And I knew that the film would get me both appreciation and money — yes, it is doing well.

“First, I wanted to make it in Hindi and a few producers also spoke to me. But I’m not well-versed in Hindi literature as I am in Telugu. There were many dialogues that had the touch of classical Telugu literature so that’s why, I stuck to Telugu. Now, there is a chance to remake the film in Hindi as a couple of studios have come forward. But I have not yet finalised anything,” Krish adds.

The film is filled with references to the caste system and racism. “But it’s more prevalent now than those times. You can see the caste system in politics where many voters are influenced by caste and religion today. Even the film industry now is riddled with caste troubles. Telugu people split from Chennai and now, the Telugu states themselves are divided. I am not against the bifurcation but despite the division, people must live together in harmony. Remember, there was only one Hitler at that time, now we can see many Hitlers everywhere — in the name of caste, religion and community, many are putting up fences,” the director adds.

The director has revealed that he has signed a two-film deal in Bollywood. “I can’t divulge any details as I have signed a contract. But at the same time, if I get a good subject, I may come up with a Telugu film. In fact, I will announce my next film in 15 days,” he says.

When asked whether Ram Charan was going to work with him, he says, “Yes, I have narrated a story to him and we will work together soon.” He adds that he will be working with Mahesh Babu, Jr NTR and other actors too. So, when is he getting married?

“I made a promise to my mother that I would get married soon and am looking for a suitable person. I am bored with my single status and I am looking for a girl like the character of my film Rachakonda Seetha Devi,” he says.