Sridhar Lagadapati, the producer of 'Naa Peru Surya', in this interview says that the film is special.  Ahead of its release on May 4, catch him speak about how the film happened to him, why Allu Arjun is special, and more.

How did this film fall into place for you?

More than a decade ago, I happened to bump into Bunny.  I expressed my desire to work with him.  In an era when most people forget their promises, Bunny remembered it.  He called me to listen to Vakkantham Vamsi's story.  Having watched his blockbusters, I have had full faith in Bunny's sense of judgement.  I didn't even have to listen to the story, I told him.  It's a big thing to get an opportunity to produce a film with him as the hero.  Before 'Naa Peru Surya', I had listened to a number of stories, none of which I could relate to.  

I have never handled a superstar in the past.  As such, I worked with Bunny Vas, who is the film's co-producer.  If the making went without any disputes, hiccups, etc, it's because of him.  He and Naga Babu garu have delivered the product.  My duty is to take it to the audience.  

Weren't you apprehensive since Vamsi is a debutant?

I wasn't.  I make no distinctions between new and old talent.  The film has come out really well.  When I made 'Style', upon watching the interval, I predicted that the film will be a hit.  In the case of 'NPS', I predicted it upon watching the 'Sainikaa' song.  This film is going to be a benchmark in terms of numbers, reception, and recall value.  

It must have been great working with Allu Arjun.

Yes.  We all know how dedicated he is.  He is a fitness freak always and for the character of a soldier, he built up the muscles.   He took extra care in every way possible.  Bunny's characterization is a major highlight.  'Race Gurram' is the most viewed Telugu movie in this decade.  And as for 'NPS', its span itself is pan-Indian.

Does the story of 'NPS' unfold entirely in the military backdrop?

Not entirely.  It drives home the message that what we do for the country is more important than what it does for us.  Surya (Bunny) wants to give back to his country.  In this, he faces so many obstacles.  In every home, we see people wanting to be doctors, engineers, etc.  What if we think we should serve the country?  In many countries, serving in the paramilitary is compulsory.  In India, NCC and the like are voluntary.  In Surya, we see a character that derives pride and satisfaction in serving his country.  These days, the stories of rebels have great currency.  The writer-director had done thorough research.  So much so, the Censor Board members were very impressed.  

The film has been shot in a range of locations, including in Kashmir, Rajasthan, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Ooty and Andhra Pradesh.

How was it working with Anu Emmanuel?

She is a very cute youngster.  She is an Indian-American who came to India to pursue her dreams.  And the fact she is bagging big movies speaks for itself.  She has done very well in romantic episodes.  She is so sensuous in 'Iraga Iraga'.  

What made you choose Vishal-Shekhar?  How have the songs come out?

Since 'NPS' was envisaged as a pan-Indian movie which will be released in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and even Hindi (I must add that Bunny is a superstar on YouTube), we decided to enlist a top Bollywood music director.  Pritham, Vishal-Shekhar duo and Amit Trivedi were considered.  Since the V-S duo had done a 'Sultan' and a 'Tiger Zinda Hai', we roped them in.  Rajeev Ravi, the cinematographer, is one of the most sensible talents in the country.  As for Rajeevan, the art director, he is also an excellent directorial talent.

As for the songs, the choreographers are of a wide range.  Vaibhavi Merchant, who has worked with Yash Raj Films and on Sanjay Leela Bhansali's movies, did two songs.  One of the songs is by an Indonesian dance master.  Prem Rakshit did a great job with 'Iraga Iraga'.

What are the plans for the April 29th event?

It's fitting that Ram Charan garu, who has delivered a super hit like 'Rangasthalam', is gracing the occasion.  The event will be very grand like those events that happen in Mumbai.  There are special items planned for the occasion.

What are your upcoming movies?

My top priority will be to produce another movie with Allu Arjun.  I have requested Ram Charan garu, Mahesh Babu garu, Naga Chaitanya garu for a chance.  Their dates are locked up, though.  I will be doing a couple of small movies.  Doing 'Style-2' with a female protagonist is also my plan.  I have selected someone for that.