Even if Bhaskar Robs a Bank, Viewers Stand by Him: Venky Atluri"
Venky Atluri, known for his talent as a director through films like Tholi Prema and Sir, has now entered the ranks of commercial filmmakers with his latest venture Lucky Bhaskar, starring Dulquer Salmaan. The film, with Meenakshi Chaudhary as the female lead, is produced by Suryadevara Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya. Since its recent release, the movie has been receiving widespread acclaim and is performing successfully at the box office. This is an interview conducted with Venky Atluri on the occasion of the film’s success.
Did you anticipate the success of Lucky Bhaskar?
I certainly felt we were making a good film, but I didn’t foresee such an overwhelming response. When I wrote the story, a few people expressed minor doubts. However, music director G.V. Prakash assured me that it would reach a wider audience, and his prediction proved true. Unlike my debut film Tholi Prema, where a few people felt slightly dissatisfied, this film has had no negative reactions—it has been well-received by everyone.
Usually, people say a movie has a strong first or second half, or the interval or climax stands out. But with this film, people are saying it’s good throughout. How does that feel?
It feels wonderful to hear such feedback. Initially, I had concerns about how people would receive a film without any references. But when I watched it with audiences at Sriramulu Theater, every moment was being enjoyed by the viewers.
There’s a lot of appreciation for the dialogues in the film. Could you tell us more?
For example, the line "If a half-hour of the day doesn’t go our way, do we lament?" was something I wrote spontaneously during a lunch break. Similarly, lines like "Not just when we gain, but also when we lose, we must stay united" resonated with viewers. I am as satisfied with the writing as I am with the direction.
How well did Dulquer Salmaan bring the character Bhaskar to life?
As soon as he heard the story, Dulquer immediately agreed to do the film. On set, he was always full of energy and joy, which greatly contributed to the film’s success. His positive spirit inspired me to give even more to the project.
Why do audiences stand by Bhaskar, even when he cheats a bank?
It’s due to the film’s emotional depth. The audience connects with Bhaskar’s struggles as a middle-class individual. Even when he commits a crime, they empathize with his journey and stay connected to his character.
Producer Naga Vamsi promised to throw a party if any flaws were pointed out in Lucky Bhaskar. Did you share the same confidence?
I meticulously detailed every aspect of the story while writing it, but I didn’t expect it to turn into such a large-scale film. Naga Vamsi believed in this story from the start and spared no expense in making it a success, which is why he made such a statement.
The film is set in the banking sector of the 1980s. Are there any plans to make a sequel exploring the current banking system?
As of now, there are no such plans. I don’t have much knowledge of the present-day banking system.
What was Trivikram’s involvement in the film?
As a producer, Trivikram was involved to the extent expected, providing advice and suggestions when necessary. He didn’t interfere beyond that. As a fan, however, his influence is present in every one of my films to some degree.
Why did you transition from acting to directing?
I always had a passion for directing. As an actor, I felt constrained—like having a plastic bag over my face as soon as I put on makeup. Directing is where my true interest lies.
What is your next project?
Nothing is confirmed yet. I have a few stories, but I plan to come up with a film that everyone will love.