After the massive success of Karthikeya 2, director Chandoo Mondeti is back with a love story, Thandel, starring Naga Chaitanya. This marks his third collaboration with the actor, following Premam and Savyasachi.
The film features Sai Pallavi, fresh off the success of Amaran, and reuniting with Naga Chaitanya after the hit Love Story.
With the songs and trailer receiving positive response, the film is set for release on February 7th, creating a buzz of high expectations.
In an exclusive interview, Chandoo Mondeti shared how Thandel came to him unexpectedly.
“After Savyasachi, Bunny Vasu approached me for a film, but it got delayed due to other commitments. While we were brainstorming ideas, Thandel was also discussed. I felt a spark in it, though Allu Aravind initially felt it had a documentary feel."
The director credits his wife and cinematographer Karthik Ghattamaneni for helping him find confidence in the idea.
“I originally envisioned it as a patriotic film. But when we discussed the story, I didn’t feel the same excitement from my team for the patriotic elements. So, we reworked it into a beautiful love story instead.”
Chandoo Mondeti also clarified that the Pakistan-related portions in the film would be minimal, around 20 minutes in total.
“The focus is not on patriotism or the Pakistan episodes. There are only two action sequences in the entire movie. Honestly, I never expected to write such a wonderful love story,” he explained.
The director was initially slated to work with Suriya under the Geetha Arts banner.
“Suriya wanted a film similar to Karthikeya 2, and I pitched him a story that he liked. However, I got his permission to make Thandel first, and he kindly gave his nod.”
Chandoo Mondeti revealed that he first narrated the story to Naga Chaitanya, presenting it as the writer.
“After hearing the story, Naga Chaitanya felt I could do better justice to it. He liked the narration but left the decision to me. I, of course, wanted to direct the movie with Naga Chaitanya.”
The director couldn’t stop praising his lead actors,
“Naga Chaitanya put his heart and soul into the character. I can’t imagine anyone else in the role. Sai Pallavi is a gem—her hard work and dedication to the film were remarkable.”
Chandoo Mondeti also shared that he has three more stories ready, including Karthikeya 3 and one for Suriya.
