When Chiranjeevi had to work harder to prove to be Sridevi’s match!

‘Jagadeka Veerudu Athiloka Sundari’ turns 30 today and Megastar Chiranjeevi has paid a rich tribute to Sridevi, his co-star and the film’s late legendary actress.

“It was not easy to hold my ground opposite Sridevi.  The role of a Deva Kanya in the socio-fantasy was destined to be essayed by her.  Her looks and unmatched grace were special.  I worked hard to be her able match,” Chiranjeevi says in a special video message brought out to commemorate the film’s 30th anniversary.

“Director K Raghavendra Rao garu was told that the project was not safe because nobody would like to watch a Chandamama Katha-type story in 1990.  On the day of its release (May 9), cyclonic rains lashed parts of Andhra Pradesh.  Yet, the audience thronged to theatres to watch the movie,” Chiru says.

The actor adds that producer C Ashwini Dutt had spent on the movie without worrying about the rising costs.  “He is a great producer who never bothers about profit margins.  All that he looks at is quality,” the ‘Sye Raa’ and ‘Acharya’ actor says.

‘JVAS’ will have a sequel.  Dutt is going to produce it.