Director Sukumar on Tuesday evening graced the pre-release event of 'Shekar'. The pan-Indian filmmaker was all praise for Rajasekhar's body of work. 

Speaking on the occasion, Sukumar said, "I have got a genuine experience with Rajasekhar garu. When he was at the peak of his career, doing films like 'Ahuthi', 'Agraham', 'Magadau', and 'Ankusham', I became his huge fan. Watching his movies, I acquired the confidence that I have to try an art form related to cinema. When I imitated Rajasekhar garu once in the presence of my friends in our village, I became famous. People would ask me to imitate him at school as well."

The 'Pushpa' director said that Rajasekhar is the reason why he wanted to get into films in the first place. He appreciated the 'PSV Garuda Vega' actor for encouraging his daughters, Shivani and Shivathmika, to get into movies. "Usually, people in the film industry keep their families away from the industry. But Rajasekhar garu is an exception," the 'Arya' director said.

He also praised Jeevitha for being a multi-tasker. "She has taken all burdens at home and on the professional front as well. 'Shekar' must become a hit for her sake in the very least," Sukumar added.

'Shekar' hits the screens on May 20.