Varun Tej’s Tholi Prema, which opened in cinemas last week, has gone on to hit the bull’s eye at the box-office. Directed by Venky Atluri, the film explores three phases of love in the lives of its lead characters Adithya and Varsha, played by Varun and Raashi Khanna respectively. Speaking at the film’s success meet on February 14, Varun opened up on the film’s reception and how it won over megastar Chiranjeevi and earned his vote of confidence.
“The first person I need to thank on this occasion is producer Dil Raju who, despite not being associated with this project, brought this story to me. I’m really thankful for his faith in us. The second person I need to thank is Venky, who is sure has a long way to go in the industry. Other day, my uncle Chiranjeevi watched the film and was shocked to know it was directed by a newcomer. He couldn’t believe it was made by a debutant,” Varun said, heaping praise on the work of Venky, cinematographer George Williams and composer SS Thaman. “Everybody has been praising the chemistry between Raashi and me on screen. But it’s also worth mentioning that the chemistry between Venky, George and Thaman behind the screen is also essential to the film’s success.”
Director Venky Atluri couldn’t contain his happiness. “I’m grateful to all my actors who accepted their roles irrespective of the size and screen time,” Venky said. Admitting that they weren’t sure about roping in Raashi initially, he said he’s glad with the response for her role. “When we thought of Raashi, we weren’t sure how she’ll be received by audiences. Today, I’m glad her character is being celebrated,” he said, adding that Varun’s confidence breathed life into the project. Venky also spoke about how the visuals of George and Thaman’s music added lot of weightage to the film.
{{/usCountry}}Director Venky Atluri couldn’t contain his happiness. “I’m grateful to all my actors who accepted their roles irrespective of the size and screen time,” Venky said. Admitting that they weren’t sure about roping in Raashi initially, he said he’s glad with the response for her role. “When we thought of Raashi, we weren’t sure how she’ll be received by audiences. Today, I’m glad her character is being celebrated,” he said, adding that Varun’s confidence breathed life into the project. Venky also spoke about how the visuals of George and Thaman’s music added lot of weightage to the film.
{{/usCountry}}Raashi said she’s happy and thankful for the success of Tholi Prema. “Ever since the film’s release, people have been calling me by my character’s name wherever I go. Post Tholi Prema, I believe my female fan following has increased as a lot of women could relate to my character. As I said at the film’s audio launch, I’m proud to have done this film.”
Tholi Prema is the second blockbuster in a row for Varun after last year’s Fidaa. In its first four days, the heartwarming tale of first love and separation grossed around Rs. 27 crore worldwide, according to trade pundits.
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