“Every bit of the budget spent on ‘Shashtipoorthi’ is visible on screen” – Rupeysh

“Legends like Rajendra Prasad, Archana, Ilaiyaraaja, and Thota Tharani worked on ‘Shashtipoorthi’ because they liked the story” – Hero and Producer Rupeysh

“With Ilaiyaraaja sir’s music, the level of ‘Shashtipoorthi’ has gone up” – Hero and Producer Rupeysh

In the current scenario, producing a film that emphasizes family emotions, values, and meaningful storytelling is no small task. Rupeysh has taken up such a mission with the film Shashtipoorthi. He not only produced the film but also played the lead role. Directed by Pavan Prabha, the film features Dr. Rajendra Prasad, actress Archana, and Aakanksha Singh in key roles. Made under the banner of MAA AAIE Productions, the film is set for release on May 30. As part of the promotions, hero and producer Rupeysh interacted with the media on Tuesday (May 27) and shared several insights about the film. Here are the highlights:

• “I really liked the story of Shashtipoorthi. These kinds of stories are rare these days. Most films now are filled with violence. So, when a script with such values came to me, I felt truly happy. The film includes all kinds of emotions. Though producing it was satisfying, I enjoyed acting in it even more.”

• “Shashtipoorthi is a completely fictional story. But when audiences see the characters, they’ll feel a strong connection, as if they’re seeing themselves on screen. Genuine love is hardly portrayed in current cinema. In this film, we’ve shown all kinds of emotions, along with strong family elements.”

• “Pavan Prabha wrote the story of Shashtipoorthi specifically for Rajendra Prasad garu. Since the role of his son is played by a newcomer, the audience will watch it with no prior expectations. That’s why the director looked for a new face, and I eventually became part of the project.”

• “Ilaiyaraaja sir’s music elevated the film. He supported us wholeheartedly and gave us several options for each song. Contrary to rumors, nothing negative happened. He composed a song immediately when Keeravani garu requested. All of this became possible thanks to Chaitanya Prasad garu. The songs and background score in the film will touch the audience.”

• “After hearing the story of Shashtipoorthi, I was convinced we needed a top-tier team. So, we aimed for experienced technicians. The budget went beyond our initial estimate, but all that money is reflected on screen. No one demanded high fees—they all worked with commitment.”

• “We conducted many workshops for Shashtipoorthi. For me personally, emotional scenes come naturally. That’s not overconfidence—it’s just where I feel comfortable.”

• “Veteran technicians joined this project after hearing the story. Ilaiyaraaja sir and Thota Tharani sir agreed to come on board because they believed in the strength of the script. And the output reflects that belief. I first came into this project as a producer. MAA AAIE Productions means ‘My Mother’s Production.’ I named it in memory of my mother. I’m very happy with how the film turned out.”

• “Whether it’s Rajendra Prasad garu, Archana garu, or Ilaiyaraaja garu—whenever they take up a task, they give it 100% focus. That’s how they reached their level of success. Watching them, I learned to give my fullest to whatever I do.”

• “Shashtipoorthi also features a beautiful love story. In recent times, we haven’t seen a simple and sensible love story like this. Aakanksha acted wonderfully. I enjoyed working with her. We didn’t include any unnecessary elements just for commercial reasons. Ilaiyaraaja garu provided music and songs that truly suit the story. The erotic song sung by Yuvan Shankar Raja will grab attention.”

• “We’ve done good business through non-theatrical rights. We’re planning a wide release in both Telugu states. Based on the response here, we’re thinking of releasing the film overseas with a slight delay. I hope Shashtipoorthi progresses through strong word-of-mouth.”