'My next is a silent musical'
He's the director of the memorable silent film in the talkie era, Pushpak. His other films include Appu Raja, Mumbai Express and Son of Alladin. Here’s a chit-chat with the veteran Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, on Ghatothkach, his future films and of course, Kamal Haasan
What do you like about Ghatothkach? What is the film's USP?
The fact that he is fun. The film's USP is Ghatothkach. The name rings a bell.
So, this Ghatothkach is not the mythological demon?
No, Ghattu's not evil at all. He was never evil. It's the story of his childhood to adulthood.
But if it's a fun film, then what is the twist in the tale? Aren’t there any sad moments or drama?
It's a love story, where two lovers get separated. Ghatothkach is the one who helps bring the two together using his magical powers. It's not just a children's film – the elders will very much like it.
So, Ghatothkach is playing cupid here! How much fiction is there in the film?
He's not cupid but he unites the lovers. I have based the story on mythology. But of course, there's an added amount of fiction.
You have also composed music for Ghatothkach. What was your treatment for the film's score?
That it should generate the feeling of fun. I enjoyed the music while composing. You have to feel it from the heart, like say Stevie Wonder or RD Burman. Or else people won't listen to it.
After directing films like Pushpak and Appu Raja, why did you choose to do an animation film and choose Ghatothkach as a character?
When you're making a film, it has to have a star value. In live action films you need a star. In animation, you need a superhero or a recognisable character from mythology.
