Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja’s 75th film, Mass Jathara is produced prestigiously by Suryadevara Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas with presentation by Srikara Studios. The film marks the directorial debut of Bhanu Bhogavarapu who has previously worked as a successful writer for many hit Telugu films. Starring Ravi Teja, Sreeleela and Naveen Chandra in lead roles, the film has music composed by Bheems Ceciroleo. The movie is set to hit theatres on October 31st with special previews planned for the evening.
Fans of Mass Maharaja and Telugu audiences alike are eagerly waiting for this release. The teaser, trailer and songs have already received tremendous response, raising huge expectations. During a recent media interaction director Bhanu Bhogavarapu shared several interesting insights about the film.
How is Mass Jathara going to be? Any unique aspects?
The film carries strong mass elements but also brings a fresh concept. The story is set against the backdrop of the Railway Police. The crime element that unfolds in this setting is something new, and even the scenes will feel different.
The title ‘Mass Jathara’ was suggested by Ravi Teja himself. After hearing the story, he said it has all the right entertainment and elements, and recommended this title. Once the title was locked, my responsibility grew even more so I added even more mass appeal to the film. Viewers can expect some real surprises inside theatres.
Was the Railway Police theme inspired by any real incidents?
No it’s a fictional story. But I did extensive research for it. I met several Railway Police officers to understand their duties and the incidents they’ve faced. Some of those real experiences inspired certain scenes in the film.
How did it feel to direct Ravi Teja’s 75th film?
Initially we didn’t know it would be his 75th film. Once Ravi Teja garu liked the story and gave his approval, we realized it after counting. He encouraged me to focus purely on making a good film and not worry about the number his support made me confident throughout the process.
About Naveen Chandra’s character?
He plays a powerful antagonist named Shivudu. Initially, we considered a few other actors but none felt perfect. When I narrated the story to Naveen Chandra garu, he loved it and immediately agreed. We even gave him a special makeover and did a photoshoot, which impressed everyone including producer Naga Vamsi garu. Naveen completely owned the role and after release, audiences will definitely talk about Shivudu’s character.
About Sreeleela’s role?
For the role of Tulasi, we never thought of anyone else. While writing the story itself, and even during discussions with Ravi Teja garu and the producers, we all instantly felt this has to be Sreeleela.
Not because of their Dhamaka combo, but because the character truly fits her. Tulasi’s role is very important in the film. She will appear in a completely new shade compared to her previous films. The scenes between Ravi Teja and Sreeleela will have a fun, massy chemistry similar to how Chiranjeevi and Vijayashanti’s moments were in Gang Leader.
You’ve built a strong name as a writer in comedy. Why debut as a director with a mass film?
Even Mass Jathara has plenty of humor and entertainment, but it’s also packed with strong mass moments. Initially, I wanted to debut as a director with a romantic comedy like Samajavaragamana, but everyone kept asking me for a solid mass story. That’s how Mass Jathara was born.
And when you think of “mass,” the first name that comes to mind is Ravi Teja garu. I wrote the story keeping him in mind. Though he’s done police roles before, I made sure the Railway Police angle and treatment here would feel totally fresh.
Weren’t you worried about comparisons with Vikramarkudu, since Ravi Teja wears a police uniform again?
I’m a huge fan of Ravi Teja garu and I know how iconic his cop films have been. So I was very careful during scripting to make sure this film stands apart while honoring that legacy.
The trailer had references to Venky and Idiot.
Why include those?
Those were added purely as a celebration of Ravi Teja garu’s iconic moments little tributes for the fans to enjoy. They don’t interfere with the story in any way they just make the experience more nostalgic and entertaining for his admirers.
About the supporting cast?
Along with Ravi Teja, Sreeleela, and Naveen Chandra, actors like Rajendra Prasad garu also play significant roles. Every character contributes well to the drama, and that’s why everyone including Rajendra Prasad garu is confident about the film’s success.
About Bheems Ceciroleo’s music?
It was Ravi Teja garu who suggested Bheems for the film. Their combination delivered a chartbuster with Dhamaka, and I also felt he would be perfect for Mass Jathara.
When he composed the first song, “Tu Mera Lover”, I loved it instantly. His music will be one of the major highlights of the film.
How about the action sequences?
The action scenes are stunning. Ravi Teja garu worked really hard for them he even injured his leg once and his hand another time, which delayed the shoot a bit. But thanks to his dedication and support, I was able to complete the film without stress.
Producer Naga Vamsi’s support?
Though this is my first film as a director, Naga Vamsi garu stood by me like a rock. He encouraged me constantly and never compromised on the budget.
He built a massive railway station set worth over 6 crores, and even the Jathara episode was done on a huge scale. It’s rare for a new director to get that kind of backing.
One message to the audience about Mass Jathara?
This film will deliver everything audiences expect from a Ravi Teja movie but in a new, refreshing way. The humor and action are crafted differently, and I’m confident everyone will have a blast in theatres.
Upcoming projects?
I’m currently working as a writer on a few films and have also completed a script for my second directorial. I’ll reveal details very soon.
