As we all know, the film Matka starring Varun Tej and directed by Karuna Kumar on Vyra Entertainments and SRT Entertainments is set in Vizag backdrop. So, the team chose Vizag as the venue for the pre-release event.
Karuna Kumar shared his connection with Vizag and the part the city played in his journey.
“Vizag has a rich and long history. I wanted to showcase a part of that history in this film. Vizag started as a small fishermen's village under the Yarada hill. But today, it is a global power on the world map.
The people here are the reason for Vizag's growth. It's close to Mumbai, and just like the settlers in Mumbai, there were settlers in Vizag too. People who were born and raised here don’t know what life was like before. Vizag had nightclubs, cabarets, and reading rooms.
Matka is a fictional story inspired by the lives of some of the rowdies and gangsters from Vizag. When I narrated this story to Varun, he immediately agreed to do it. This movie talks about a person’s growth, and about good and bad in life.
I've been a Mega fan since childhood. To think that I directed Mega Prince Varun Tej is a milestone in my career. Varun Tej has an OCD issue, but never once complained and worked tirelessly for this film. He did a scene in a single take that will remain a benchmark in the Telugu film industry. This is a movie meant to be enjoyed in theatres.”
Varun Tej stated that he felt Matka would be a perfect mass film for him to make a strong comeback.
“The movie is about my character Vasu's journey, starting as a refugee when he was 16, to his 52nd year. He works hard for every rupee to rise step by step.
Naveen Chandra is a good friend of mine and previously worked in Ghani. It was a flop. But, I hope this time we will get it right. I hope this film becomes a massive hit for everyone.
After Gaddalakonda Ganesh, I took a few wrong turns in my career. But, Karuna Kumar is a sensible director who helped me to gave my best performance. I feel upset when my films don’t do well.
Recently, when I was feeling uncertain about how the film would turn out, I spoke with Lavanya. Just then, I received a call from my brother, Ram Charan, and that call eased out my tension. He didn’t need to say a word—when he places his hand on my shoulder, that’s all the reassurance I need.
No matter what others may say, I will always speak proudly of my father, my uncles, and my brother. In life, if you forget where you come from and who supports you, then success loses its meaning. My family will always be in my heart.
While my film’s heroines couldn’t attend the event due to other commitments, I’m happy that my real-life heroine, Lavanya, is here with me today.
I’ve watched the movie, and I’m very confident about it. There’s a small dialogue in this movie. When people think of Vizag, they should think of the sea or of this character, Vasu. Tomorrow, Vasu is going to take you on an emotional journey in the theatres."
Lavanya Tripathi’s presence made the event extra special. The event was a resounding success, drawing a large and enthusiastic crowd.