Dayanand Reddy has his second release in 'Siddhartha'. Better known as an associate of Pawan Kalyan, Daya, in this exclusive interview to IndiaGlitz, talks about how his journey started, how this film fell into place for him, his association with Pawan Kalyan and what he will do in association with Power Star and more.

How did you start your journey?

Way back in 1995, I did a diploma course in acting at Madhu Institute. I also learnt dancing. Sagar (of 'Mogali Rekulu' fame and the hero of 'Siddhartha') and Prabhas Srinu were my juniors there. My brother Sridhar Reddy choreographed a song for 'Khushi'. It was during those days that I first met Kalyan sir.

It was us who wrote the dialogues for the first scenes that come in Hyderabadi slang. Kalyan sir encouraged me saying that there is a good writer in me. He asked me to join his direction team for 'Johnny'. I have been a member of Kalyan sir's creative team since then. I got introduced to Neelima Tirumalshetty garu during the making of 'Panjaa'. She later asked me to direct 'Alias Janaki'. I joined Kalyan sir again for 'SGS'. It was then that Sagar called me up and spoke about this movie. After listening to the story, I decided to direct it.

What is the story about?

This is an action entertainer in the backdrop of factionalism. The hero, who is an NRI, is staying away from all this. He happens to bump into a girl and the relationship blossoms into love. What will he do when he has to return to violence because of that girl? That's the conflict point.

Even though the story is simple, the screenplay is exciting. I knew this would be apt for Sagar's body language. He has a certain image as an actor of 'Mogali Rekulu' and other serials. However, in 'Siddhartha', you will see a transformed Sagar.

How have Ragini and Sakshi Chowdhary performed?

They are playing performance-oriented roles. When I watched a Malayalam film of Ragini, I felt that she has very expressive eyes. I found my Sahasra in her. Sakshi is playing Apsara. This film will give them a good name.

You have worked with top technicians like Mani Sharma, S Gopal Reddy. What's your feeling?

They are very disciplined and dedicated technicians. Even though they have done hundreds of movies, they give respect to a new one like me. I think because they treat people respectfully that they have reached this position.

You have known Pawan Kalyan for many years. When are you going to direct him?

I wan to direct him, but am waiting for the right time for that. None can tell why things work out for some and don't work out for others. Although I am confident that I can handle big stars ably, I will go to Kalyan sir only when I am convinced that I have a big enough idea. After 'Siddhartha', I will work go to the next level. After that, I will think of approaching Kalyan sir with a story. I know certain things about him which others don't.

Because of your closeness to Power Star, do you come to know of his moves in advance, be it related to politics or cinema?

I wouldn't know.

Apart from cinema, what is your relationship with Pawan Kalyan like?

He has gifted me so many books from his large collection. He has read several hundreds of books. Thanks to him, I too have read many, many books.

What are the things that you know about him, but we don't?

Many. For example, people say that he loses his cool often, but the fact is that he is very calm. He respects even his servants. He doesn't lose cool unless it is for a genuine reason.

How has Pawan influenced your directorial vision?

I have learnt many valuable lessons from him. The way he sees a scene is very different. He details even about how the junior artistes have to behave in the background. He has had a thorough influence on my style. Naturally, his style will be seen in 'Siddhartha'.

Dasari Kiran Kumar has said that you will reach the league of a Boyapati Srinu and a Koratala Siva after 'Siddhartha'. What is your comment?

(Smiles). That he said that shows his positive attitude. I have done this movie because I liked the story. We all have put our best efforts.