Producer Vallabhaneni Ashok is confident that 'Peta' will become a super hit. In this interview, he talks about what is special about the mass film, laying his hands on its Telugu theatrical rights, the confidence of director Karthik Subbaraj and more.

Planning charity activities:

Rajinikanth garu has always been my inspiration. He began as a bus conductor and has gone on to become a pan-Indian superstar. He could next become a chief minister. I am planning a charity activity through him in the Telugu States so that people here will know about him more.

The pre-release event will be held on January 6th. Rajini garu is expected to grace the occasion.

Director said he will kill himself

Karthik Subbaraj has been a great fan of Rajini garu. In the Trailer, you see the hero 25 years younger than his age. I am amazed that he is looking very young. Anirudh is a versatile music director. Even in Telugu, the songs are working big-time.

I have watched 1 hour of the movie. 'Pizza' and 'Jigarthanda' director had prepared the story for Rajini garu years ago. I heard that the director has said that he will commit suicide if 'Petta' doesn't work. He is that confident about the movie.

You will see real Rajini in 'Peta'

'2.0' was only about graphics. Unlike that film, 'Peta' is about actual Rajinikanth. He is a style icon and people will get it in this movie. Romance, style, action - you will see the vintage Rajini of 'Basha', 'Narasimha', etc. What he does in the 'peta', you have to see it on the big screen. I can say that 'Peta' is greater than his biggest mass movies. There is an unseen get-up of Rajinikanth in the movie.

I ensure right release strategy

I recently released 'Nawab' and 'Sarkar' in Telugu. I ensured that Vijay garu got a timely release with 'Sarkar' for the first time. In Chittoor district, I ensured early morning shows for the movie on Day 1. Sun Pictures has given me 'Peta' rights for a lesser amount (Rs 2 Cr less than usual) because of the goodwill I enjoy and I thank them. I have always made payments promptly. They like me because I ensured Vijay garu's market grows in Telugu. I must say I have bought for a high price. Since three other movies are releasing this Sankranthi, many producers shied away from buying the movie. I am ready to release 'Peta' on my own even if I get less number of theatres than desired. Nizam could be my own release. Fifty percent of territories have found their distributors.

I finance right movies

A particular producer has backed out of 'Peta'. Media people know who he is. I see it as a good omen. It's because he backed out of 'Sarkar' too. And it became a big hit. If 'Peta' has strong content, people are going to make it a hit for sure. I financed 'PSV Garuda Vega' and 'Chalo' daringly. I have scored hits with them. I believe that what goes around comes around. I do my work sincerely. I don't give up till the end.

Straight film being planned

I am planning a straight film this year. It will be my fresh beginning as a producer after years. I don't have any particular hero in mind as of now for my straight movie. It will depend on the story.