Actor Nithiin has shouldered the responsibility to launch Akhil Akkineni as the hero with Akhil. The film directed by VV Vinayak is ready for release on November 11 for Diwali. Vinayak is confident that the festival of lights will bring joy to Akkineni fans with Akhil. Excerpts from his interview.

What is the reason for the abrupt delay in Akhil's release?

Our team has been working hard for the last one year to deliver a good film. We felt that the climax fight of the film has some shoddy visual effects. Entire unit decided to re-work on the special effects to bring the desired output. Nagarjuna garu also echoed similar views. Collectively, we decided to push the release to Diwali and entrusted the job to DQ Entertainment. As speculated, we didn't re-shoot the film.

Is Akhil a socio-fantasy entertainer?

No, it's a clean entertainer encapsulated with action, comedy, emotion and some wonderful dance movements. Entire family can walk in to the theater and enjoy the film thoroughly. Audience will thrill to bits watching our film. The run time is 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Why was the film titled Akhil - The Power of Jua?

Akhil means universal. Going by the script, we felt Akhil would be an ideal title for this film. Jua means Sun in an African (Swahili) language. The story of the film revolves around an African tribe. How they are related with the film has to be watched on screen.

Going back, did you feel any pressure to launch Akhil?

I have decided to work with Akhil after watching his striking cameo in Manam. I also worked on the story. I am aware of the fact that producer Sudhakar Reddy has put a huge responsibility on my shoulders. He was very supportive throughout this journey. Also, Nagarjuna's words on the introduction function of Akhil were reverberating in my ears. I had a conviction on how to present Akhil. Our entire team supported each other well and put sincere efforts. Audiences will see never before locales in this film.

How do you rate Akhil's performance in the film?

Initially, I thought Akhil will follow the acting style of Nagarjuna. But, he sported a new stylish look and proved me wrong with his versatility. I never felt he was a new comer after watching his performance. He completed with Brahmanandam in comedy scenes and acted with great elan. Akhil had all the qualities to become a commercial hero.

Akkineni fans were disappointed with the postponement of the film. How do you compensate their expectations?

I agree that fans of Nagarjuna garu were disappointed with the delay. But, we wanted to give a best output only to make them happy. Hope, they will be pleased with the outcome of Akhil.

What do you like the most in Akhil?

Akhil handled the pressure well. He used to do a lot of rehearsals for dance movements and fights. He didn't eat much to maintain good looks. He didn't even drink water while shooting for songs and action episodes. As a result, he fainted on the sets. I was shocked seeing him unconscious. He had a flare for perfection. I sincerely appreciate his commitment. I feel he will be the next big star of Tollywood.

We learnt that the film's budget has shot up…

We had complete clarity on the budget even before the film hit the floors. I should thank Sudhakar Reddy garu for reposing faith in me.

Who invited Mahesh Babu for the audio launch?

Akhil called up Mahesh Babu and requested for a video-byte. Surprisingly, Mahesh took the initiative and graced the audio launch. I am extremely happy to see Mahesh at the event. My happiness doubled when he praised my directorial skills at the launch. I can't express that excitement in my words.

When can we expect your film with Mahesh?

I will definitely work with Mahesh. I am in no hurry to direct him. Rather, I am waiting for a good story. If everything falls in place, you will see me directing Mahesh in a film.

Are you in contention to direct Chiranjeevi's 150th film?

I meet Chiranjeevi garu quite regularly. It's too early to talk about his 150th film now. We will talk about it on a different platform.

What is your next project?

I want to take a break for at least one month after Akhil's release. I will decide on my next film after the break.