Srinivas Avasarala returns as a director after Oohalu Gusagusalade (2014), with Jyo Achyutananda, a romantic love story featuring two brothers – Nara Rohit and Naga Shourya.
While the film, which has Regina Cassandra playing the female lead, was touted as a triangular love story, Srinivas says there’s much more to it than just that.
“I would say that it’s a love story that revolves around two brothers. The film showcases the relationship that they share. It’s not a serious film, it has elements of comedy, emotions and drama,” he shares.
Srinivas, who has also written the script for the film, says it’s unfair to draw parallels with Oohalu Gusagusalade because the two films are completely different.
“I don’t want to be known as a director who can make only one type of a film. That’s why I made a conscious effort to make something different this time. Jyo Achyutananda is a fresh film that is packed with emotions,” says Srinivas, who previously featured in Nani-starrer, Gentleman.
Having two main heroes was a major deterrent for many actors to come on board and many of them rejected the movie, admits Srinivas.
“A lot of them backed out when they realised that it has two heroes. I thought Rohit will also refuse the film but he accepted. I then approached Naga Shourya, who I had in mind right from the start,” he explains.
Though Tollywood multi-starrers have done well in recent times, Srinivas believes that many young actors shy away from them.
“Films like Oopiri and Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu are proof that multi-starrers can work. But when big star does multi-starrers, they aren’t concerned about the risk of it failing. But budding stars are a bit more cautious and my film needed upcoming stars,” he points out.
Srinivas will next feature in the Telugu remake of Hunterrr, an adult comedy. “Unfortunately, the focus is more on the ‘adult comedy’ bit, but there’s more to the film. I got quite emotional while watching it,” he adds.