M.S. Raju reveals Mahesh, Prabhas praise ‘Aghadha’

Director M.S. Raju is gearing up for the August 14 theatrical release of ‘Aghadha’, a mystic divine thriller produced by Kashi Visalakshi Balusu under Sri Aadivaraha Productions, with Ajay KR as presenter. Ahead of the release, the filmmaker spoke about the film, its concept, research, VFX, and the support he received from leading actors.

What does ‘Aghadha’ mean?

‘Aghadha’ means something deep, an abyss or a void. We have never seen God or demons with our own eyes, and the story explores the forces that exist between such realms. The film is not merely about horror. It has several layers and presents an evil force working against God.

Shyam Prasad Reddy once said that the M.S. Raju he knows never makes films relying only on horror and that there are always more layers. I believe ‘Aghadha’ reflects that understanding. I wanted to make something that connects with both mass and family audiences.

How much research went into the film?

I did extensive research and travelled to several places. However, the audience does not need to know everything behind the research. I used what I observed and combined it with my imagination to create an entertaining cinematic experience.

While making ‘Devi’, I faced financial difficulties, but I felt some force was pushing me forward. I experienced a similar feeling during ‘Aghadha’. I wanted to present an evil force in a way that appeals to the current generation. I also wanted the film to connect with both single-screen and multiplex audiences.

You seem very confident about the film’s success.

I have never before come on stage and openly said that one of my films was good. But after watching ‘Aghadha’, I genuinely felt deep down that it would be successful.

I believe audiences will also feel the same after watching it.

What can audiences expect from the VFX?

I focus on every frame and do not move forward until I have complete clarity. I am involved in every craft and every aspect of filmmaking. The teaser and trailer have already shown the quality of our VFX, but what audiences see in the actual film will be even more impressive.”

Your comments about N.T. Rama Rao garu were criticised.

“I used to wake up at 3 am while making ‘Aghadha’, inspired by N.T. Rama Rao garu’s discipline. I casually mentioned that he used to eat chicken early in the morning, purely out of admiration and affection. My father shared a close relationship with him, and I had the privilege of observing his dedication. No matter how much people troll me, Rama Rao garu’s spirit certainly won’t troll me!” he said with a laugh.

What did Mahesh Babu and Prabhas say after watching the content?

Mahesh Babu garu sent me a voice message after watching the teaser and trailer and said, ‘You’re going to hit it big this time, sir.’

Prabhas said, ‘You’re going to nail it, bro.’ Their words made me very happy. I also share a warm relationship with all my artistes, and their fans have always supported me.

Will there be an ‘ Aghadha 2’?

Once ‘Aghadha’ releases, I will reveal whether the next chapter will be a prequel or sequel. The story has scope for both. For now, ‘Aghadha’ is a mystic divine thriller made to appeal to audiences across all sections.