Neelakanta: These are exciting times 'The world is but a cosmic drama created by God for our entertainment only.'
Neelakanta's first film Show had these lines penned by Parahamsa Yogananda. They made a deep impact on Neelakanta, who entertains audiences through his movies made with passion. Yet, he chooses paths that are slightly different, giving us films that are offbeat, yet mainstream; imaginative, yet rooted in reality. It comes as no surprise, then, that Show (with a unique concept of just two characters) and Missamma have fetched him National and State Awards besides huge accolades. Coming soon is Nandanavanam 120 km, a film Neelakanta wants to say little about, but Radhika Rajamani managed to get something out of him though. Excerpts: What inspired or triggered the idea for the film? The central thought of the film has been in my mind for quite some time. I simply fleshed out the screenplay. You have cast newcomers Ajay Varma and Manasa in the lead roles. How did you choose them? I was looking for two new faces as I wanted a fresh lead pair. Taking stars would not have been suitable for the roles. I have known Ajay for five years. When he came back from the US, he casually mentioned that he would act in a film I made. We used to meet often. When I thought of the characters of Nandanavanam, I found Ajay suitable. He was surprised, but agreed to be part of it. As for Manasa, she approached me a while ago and I found her apt for the role.