Interview: Avinash Kolla – Audience won’t notice the sets in Peddi

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Mega Power Star Ram Charan’s sports action drama Peddi directed by Buchi Babu Sana is set to release on June 4. Produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru of Vriddhi Cinemas, the movie is presented by Mythri Movie Makers and Sukumar Writings. The film is already surrounded by massive buzz, and production designer Avinash Kolla has now interacted with the media. Here’s the transcript.

How did you feel when Buchi Babu garu narrated the story?

In my 10 years of career, this is the first time I got so excited for a story. It took me 20 minutes to return to normal state. It has so much emotional depth. That’s when I decided to give it my all to the film.

Since this is a period drama, what extra care did you take regarding sets?

Sets shouldn’t look like sets. That’s when an art director succeeds. In Peddi, they feel so natural that the audience won’t notice them at all.

What were the inputs provided to you?

Peddi story happens in Vizianagaram. The streets, clock tower, and surrounding places were recreated. We also took extreme care regarding cricket and wrestling scenes. The wrestling setup in Peddi is one-of-its-kind. We shot in underground setup and that’s where Charan garu scenes with mace were filmed.

Tell us about the film’s story.

Peddi is a distinct film. People will walk out of the theatre with a heavy heart. They will connect with Peddi’s journey and emotions.

How many sets were erected for Peddi?

From the scratch we built 24 sets. There are around 60-70 setups totally. If it’s a small film we can shoot anywhere. Since it’s a big film, the locations must be comfortable to shoot. We designed the Vizianagaram set in such a way it is weather-resistant.

Tell us about your bonding with Charan garu?

Charan garu appreciated every set designed by me. He extremely liked the train setup, special song set, and wrestling setup. Everyone who came to meet Charan garu lauded the set work.