
Young Composer Bags Big Break In Puri Jagannadh's Star-Studded Project
Telugu filmmaker Puri Jagannadh returns with a social drama starring Vijay Sethupathi and Tabu. Mahati Swara Sagar will compose the soundtrack.
After facing a string of underwhelming releases, including Liger and Double iSmart, Telugu filmmaker Puri Jagannadh is back on set with a new social drama featuring Vijay Sethupathi and Tabu. In the latest update, Puri has enlisted Mahati Swara Sagar, son of celebrated music composer Mani Sharma, to helm the soundtrack for the film.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions, especially considering Mahati's absence from the limelight in recent years and the lukewarm reception of his last outing, Bholaa Shankar.
However, Puri's longstanding association with Mahati's father may have played a role in the decision, suggests reports. The duo has previously collaborated on several iconic soundtracks, including the successful iSmart Shankar. Their strong creative rapport appears to have extended into a new generation, with Mahati already having completed two songs for the upcoming film. Reports suggest that he is now working on the background score, with the project expected to wrap filming in the next two months.
Adding further intrigue to the film is Tabu's character, which insiders say is a negative role. Known for delivering intense and memorable performances in films such as Drishyam, De De Pyaar De, and Ninne Pelladata, the National Award-winning actress is expected to surprise audiences once again.
Puri's new venture, which is being co-produced with Charmee on a modest budget, promises to carry the kind of sharp social commentary the filmmaker is known for, delivered with a satirical edge. Vijay Sethupathi, meanwhile, will be seen in a central, author-backed role designed to anchor the film's core message.
More details about the yet-to-be-titled project are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks.
Puri Jagannadh made his directorial debut with Badri (2000), starring Pawan Kalyan. His 2006 blockbuster Pokiri premiered at the 7th IIFA Film Festival in Dubai and was later remade in multiple Indian languages, gaining him nationwide fame. Puri entered Bollywood with Shart: The Challenge (2004) and went on to direct Bbuddah… Hoga Terra Baap (2011) starring Amitabh Bachchan, which was archived by the Oscar library.
He co-owns production houses including Puri Jagannadh Touring Talkies, Vaishno Academy, and Puri Connects with actress Charmme Kaur, and also runs his own music label, Puri Sangeet. Known for delivering box office hits, his notable films include Itlu Sravani Subramanyam, Idiot, Amma Nanna O Tamila Ammayi, Pokiri, Desamuduru, Businessman, Temper, and iSmart Shankar.
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