Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga revealed that he originally wanted Sai Pallavi as the female lead in his 2017 film Arjun Reddy. However, he was advised against casting her. Someone he believed to be an actor coordinator told him to “forget it” because Sai Pallavi wouldn’t even wear sleeveless outfits.
At a recent promotional event for her upcoming film Thandel, Vanga shared this experience. He later discovered that the person who gave him this advice wasn’t even a real coordinator.
The Conversation That Changed the Casting
Vanga recalled his discussion with the coordinator.
“I told him, ‘I have a story about a guy who is destroyed in love. It’s a very romantic story, and I want Sai Pallavi as the heroine,’” he said.
The coordinator questioned the film’s romantic intensity. Vanga responded, “It’s more than what we usually see in Telugu cinema.”
The coordinator then dismissed Sai Pallavi, saying, ‘Forget about casting her. She won’t even wear sleeveless.’
As Vanga shared this anecdote at the event, Sai Pallavi was seen smiling and laughing in the audience.
Vanga Praises Sai Pallavi’s Consistency
Reflecting on Sai Pallavi’s career, Vanga praised her for staying true to herself despite evolving opportunities.
“Eventually, heroines evolve based on opportunities. But to see Sai Pallavi not changing at all—it’s great. It’s really great, actually.”
Sai Pallavi’s Reaction to Arjun Reddy
During the event, Sai Pallavi spoke about Arjun Reddy. She called it a “brilliant film” and praised Vijay Deverakonda and Shalini Pandey’s performances.
“Shalini was brilliant, and so was Vijay as Arjun Reddy. I believe some actors are destined for certain roles, and that’s what happened with this film.”
She also praised Vanga’s filmmaking, saying, “Every director should have a voice. Sandeep Reddy Vanga has a unique voice—unfiltered on and off-screen.”
Thandel’s Pre-Release Event
The event was held in Hyderabad to promote Thandel, Sai Pallavi’s upcoming film with Naga Chaitanya. Allu Arjun was the chief guest, though the event wasn’t open to the public.
Thandel, directed by Chandoo Mondeti, is based on a real-life incident where fishermen from Srikakulam accidentally drifted into Pakistani waters.
The film features cinematography by Shamdat and music by Devi Sri Prasad. It is presented by Allu Aravind, the father of Allu Arjun.
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