National award winning director Neelakanta (Show and Missamma fame) is producing and directing a film titled ‘Nandanavanam 120 kms’ by introducing Ajay Varma and Manasa (granddaughter of G Varalakshmi) as main leads. Shooting of this film is completed. He arranged a press meet with cast and crewmembers on the morning of 22nd March 2006. Here are the excerpts -

Nandanavanam is an emotional thriller - Neelakanta

Producer and director Neelakanta said, “I produced films before entering direction. This is my second coming as producer. I have established ‘Blue Sky Films’ banner and producing this film. We have completed shooting of this film yesterday after working for 55 days in and around Hyderabad. The new hero (Ajay varma) and heroine (Manasa) are very comfortable to work with. PG Vinda and Vijay of Grahanam fame are providing cinematography and music respectively. There are no songs in this film as storyline does not demand it. I had done a challenging screenplay for this emotional thriller. The press and media has always been very kind to me by giving good promotions for Show and Missamma. I am planning to release Nandanavanam in the first week of May.”

Telugu films have come off age - Naresh
Senior artist Naresh said, “I started my career as child artist in 70’s with Pandanti Kapuram film. I graduated to the level of hero in 80’s. I was born into a film family and grew up in film industry. I can confidently said that Telugu films have come of age today. Telugu audiences have matured over a period of time. I am a great fan of Alfred Hitchcock and I love suspense. Nandanavanam is going to be a great thriller. Director Neelakanta has a very good command on screenplay.”

Neelakanta retained curiosity and suspense - Kota
Veteran actor Kota said, “I always wanted to work with creative directors like Neelakanta after watching Show and Missamma. I like the way Neelakanta inspires the actors to give out their best. He has got great command on artists. Though he is one of the best new generation directors, he is hardworking and down-to-earth. He retained curiosity and suspense throughout the film.”

Debutant hero Ajay Varma said that the script of the film is original and elegant. Ajay Varma and Manasa thanked Neelakanta for giving them opportunities.”

Cinematographer PG Vinda (of Grahanam fame) said, “I am happy to work with an exciting script. I am feeling lucky to have worked for Nandanavanam.”

Music director Vijay felt that working for this film is like a dream come true.