The pre-release event of 'Geetha Govindam' was held on Sunday at Vizag's AU University. Vijay Deverakonda began his speech by thanking AP Minister Ghanta Srinivas Rao and producer Allu Aravind.

"I was to Vizag after the release of 'Yevade Subrahmanyam'. Whether or not I have been here since then, people of this city have always loved me. I begged my producers to arrange this pre-release event only in Vizag," he said.

In the wake of 'Geetha Govindam' scenes getting leaked, the actor expressed angst. "I and others here are putting up a smile on our faces. But only we know how tensed we are. Aravind garu has been totally tensed. Before coming here, I wanted to say 'Thanks' and end the speech. But your energy is infectious. As for fighting back, it has always been the case in my life.

I have always fought for respect, I have always fought for survival, so fighting is nothing new to me. Those trying to drag me down through piracy, I want to tell them that I will somehow achieve what I want. I am focused enough to achieve what I want and give the audience what I can," Deverakonda said, cheering the audience later.

"I am in the theatres on August 15 after nearly a year. I am sure that the theatres will be filled up with laughter because of our film. I am not supposed to face lights because I underwent an eye surgery only a week ago. Although I was advised total rest, I redubbed my lines because Bujji garu (director Parusuram) told me there should be extra efforts to better the final product.

This film is his dream. As for Rashmika, she has had to take so much negativity for doing this movie. Aravind garu and Bunny Vas garu backed us regardless of the expenditure involved. We did expensive reshoots. Vas garu is not here because he is fighting piracy right now," the actor added.