“Gandhi Tatha Chettu”: A Conversation with Director Padmavati Malladi

In an engaging interview, Padmavati Malladi, the director of the much-anticipated film Gandhi Tatha Chettu, delves into her creative journey, the inspiration behind the film, and the collaborative process that brought this heartwarming story to life.

From Writer to Director: A Journey of Passion and Dedication

Padmavati Malladi traces her passion for storytelling back to her formative years: “Growing up in Hyderabad, I was instilled with a strong sense of discipline and a love for education. After completing my postgraduate studies, I embarked on my writing journey with Chandrasekhar Yeleti. I had the privilege of contributing to acclaimed films like Radhe Shyam and Mahanati, writing dialogues for Choosi Choodangaane, and working on the film Ammu and the web series Brinda. These experiences nurtured my passion for storytelling and paved the way for my directorial debut.”

A Seed of Inspiration: The Genesis of “Gandhi Tatha Chettu”

Padmavati reveals the unique inspiration behind the film: “The idea for Gandhi Tatha Chettu blossomed from a friend’s suggestion to explore a love story between a tree and a human. As someone deeply connected to nature, the concept resonated with me instantly. I wanted to create a film that would highlight the importance of nature, particularly for future generations. The story follows a young girl’s courageous journey to protect her village and a cherished tree, embracing the principles of non-violence. It’s a film with a powerful message and universal appeal, blending commercial elements with heartfelt emotions.”

Creating an Authentic World: Location and Visuals

Padmavati discusses the film’s setting and visual aesthetic: “To create an authentic backdrop for the story, we ventured to Nizamabad and discovered the perfect tree on a friend’s farm. We filmed in the picturesque village of Rangampeta, surrounded by serene sugarcane fields. The story unfolds in 1947, the year of Gandhiji’s passing, with a tree planted by the protagonist’s grandfather. We aimed for a natural and authentic visual style that complements the film’s emotional depth.”

A Bold Decision and a Perfect Fit: Casting Sukrithi Veni

Padmavati explains the reasoning behind Sukrithi Veni’s bold portrayal of Gandhi: “Using prosthetic makeup wasn’t a feasible option, and Sukrithi’s character is fearless and defiant, someone who challenges societal norms. Shaving her head was a daring decision that perfectly aligned with the character’s spirit. Sukrithi embodies the essence of Gandhi; she was the perfect fit for the role. I was immediately drawn to her presence when I first saw her during the preview of Ashoka Vanamlo Arjuna Kalyanam. With the support of Sukumar and Tabitha, we were thrilled to have her on board.”

Collaboration and Trust: The Essence of Filmmaking

Padmavati emphasizes the collaborative spirit behind the film: “We conducted extensive workshops to prepare for the shoot, ensuring that Sukrithi was fully immersed in her role. We completed filming efficiently in just 25 days. Sukumar, trusting my vision, encouraged me to tell the story authentically. The music, especially the background score, plays a vital role in enhancing the narrative and emotional depth. The film is not a biopic of Gandhiji but rather a story of a young girl named Gandhi who embodies his principles. It carries a universal message of non-violence, both between humans and with nature. We strategically chose to release the film after its successful festival run to generate anticipation and share this impactful story with a wider audience. The film also features local villagers as actors, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative.”

A Director’s Journey and Future Aspirations

Padmavati concludes by sharing her aspirations: “I have several stories brewing in my mind and will embark on my next project after Gandhi Tatha Chettu‘s release. I’m eager to continue exploring diverse narratives and bringing compelling stories to life on the big screen.”

With its powerful message, heartwarming narrative, and Sukrithi Veni’s promising debut, Gandhi Tatha Chettu is poised to be a cinematic gem that resonates with audiences of all ages.