Patriotism in the air

Undeniably, T-town stars and filmmakers are obsessed with patriotic themes these days. Even though the reigning star Allu Arjun played a tough army man in his recent release ‘Naa Peru Surya’ and won appreciation for his spirited performance as a fiery guy who has anger management issues, still a patriot at heart.

“Truly, patriotism is the new buzzword reverberating in the film industry,” says writer Gopi Mohan, who feels that Allu Arjun would have chosen to wear army attire since it enhances his larger-than-life image. “Bunny breathed life into the role with a riveting performance. He looked a perfect military personnel with a fit body, brooding look and gait. Allu Arjun has become a trailblazer of sorts as he chose a film with army backdrop which showcases the trials and tribulations,” he adds

Actually, just two years, ago Allu Arjun’s friend and actor Rana Daggupati triggered the fascination for patrotism with national-award winning film ‘Ghazi’ wherein he played a dare-devil naval officer. “It was inspired by a true story and Rana was fascinated with the storyline from the beginning. His brooding performance brought out his love for the nation, in the award winning film,” says producer Raj Kandukurri who feels that new-age stars are game for variety and looking to explore varied themes.

“This attitude of young stars augurs well for the industry. Apart from breaking the stereotyped Telugu cinema, these stars are actually raising the bar on Tollywood movies,” adds Kandukurri.

Meanwhile, director Puri Jagannath is launching his son and debutant hero Akash Puri in the role of a valiant soldier who fights for his love and country as well in ‘Mehabhooba’ set for release on Friday. “It is a perfect love story with a tinge of patriotism,” said Akash Puri, who worked on his body to fit into the role. “Breathtaking visuals and war sequences will be a value addition and bound to enthrall masses and classes alike,” adds Puri.

Keeping up the mood, Rana is all set to play an Indian Air Force Officer in his upcoming film with director Teja and it will be set in the backdrop of 1971 Indo-Pak war. “It will be a rich and lavish war-centric film in recent times because the budget and making values will be very high. The war sequences will be designed by a Hollywood team in Los Angeles,” says a source. However, when contacted, Teja said “I can’t reveal anything at this stage,’ he cuts short.