After exploring the supernatural in ‘Taxiwaala,’ director: Rahul Sankrityan is heading in a completely different direction with his new film ‘Ranabaali’ which is a 19th century period drama rooted in the folklore and forgotten history of his native region of Rayalaseema. Reunite with: Vijay Deverakonda for the first time since their collaboration in 2018, Sankrityan has assembled a cast that includes real-life couple Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna as on-screen partners, along with Hollywood actors Arnold Vosloo in the role of the film’s antagonist. In a conversation with Variety India, the director talked about the historical tragedy that inspired the film, the serendipity of casting a newlywed couple for an Indian period drama.
Casting Vijay Deverakonda as Ranabaali. “He had never explored a rural character before”
‘Ranabaali’ marks Sankrityan’s second collaboration with Vijay Deverakonda after the success of ‘Taxiwaala’ in 2018, and the director is clear about what exactly brought him back to the actor for this particular role.“I wanted someone who was physically strong, young-looking, and who could ride a horse, as his character rides one in the movie, which is set in the 1870s. Vijay is also very versatile and he had never explored a rural character before. So, when I discussed the idea with Vijay, he was excited.”
The casting of Rashmika Mandanna as Jayamma
The casting of Rashmika Mandanna as Vijay Deverakonda’s on-screen wife Jayamma gained particular attention due to the couple’s real-life marriage earlier this year although Sankrityan revealed that the casting decision was made before this news became public.“Initially, we discussed many options for this character. But we wanted a female actor with a pan-India presence because we wanted to convey this story to a national audience as well. And that’s how we signed Rashmika. They make a great pair and have great chemistry between them. “He was candid about the timing of the couple’s announcement regarding the film’s production.“It is just a happy coincidence that they got married because there is already a lot of interest in them as a couple, and they also play a couple in this film. Actually, I wasn’t aware that they were going to make their relationship official. But after a while, Vijay informed me about their wedding plan. Their real-life relationship will help my film.”
Sankrityan to release the film in September
With Ranabaali set to hit theaters on September 11, Sankrityan expressed confidence and excitement about how the film is coming together, with post-production already underway.“Beyond my happiness. I am very excited and proud. We have started post-production. The first half is almost ready. We have planned everything. I am very excited to present Arnold to the Indian audience, because many people love him in ‘The Mummy.’ Vijay as Ranabaali will be a feast to watch, and the chemistry between Vijay and Rashmika is the highlight of this film.‘Ranabaali,’ directed by Rahul Sankrityan and starring Vijay Deverakonda, Rashmika Mandanna, and Arnold Vosloo, will hit theaters on September 11.