I produced Razakar film for my people and the country: Producer Guduru Narayana Reddy

Directed by Yata Satyanarayana and produced by Guduru Narayana Reddy, the film 'Rajakar' stars Bobby Simha, Vedhika, Anushya Tripathi, Prema, Indraja, and Makarand Deshpande. It's set to release on March 15 in Southern languages including Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and also in Marathi and Hindi, under the banner of Samarveer Creations. In a recent interview, producer Guduru Narayana Reddy shared insights about the film.

- Could you share the concept of this movie, sir?

"The 7th Nizam had envisioned creating a separate country named Turkistan, or Osmanistan, and even considered buying Goa from the Portuguese to establish this homeland. As a wealthy monarch, he approached the British with this idea. However, when the United Nations suggested that a separate community was needed for such a country, the Nizam's response was marked by fury. He aimed to convert people, leading to 60,000 rapes and two lakh murders. Why should we shy away from portraying such historical events? I was born here and want to highlight the atrocities that occurred in my region. Despite the Nizam's contributions to infrastructure like universities and hospitals, it's crucial to remember that these were funded by the people's taxes, not his personal wealth. This history, whether found in books, public domains, or movies, must be acknowledged. That's why I made this film."

- What motivated you to make this film?

"India's population is around 142 crore, with 100 crore being the younger generation who may not be aware of the atrocities that occurred. These injustices affected the poor, our ancestors, and it's my duty to inform today's society about them."

- Is your film affiliated with the BJP?

"Making this film wasn't motivated by any affiliation with the BJP. I'm currently working in Telangana, where the BJP has a strong presence, thanks to leaders like Narendra Modi. However, the BJP, being the world's most popular party with 13 crore registered workers, doesn't need to leverage a film or documentary for promotion. My intention with this movie transcends political boundaries."

- Regarding the opposition to the movie?

"Opposition is natural... Who opposes it? Descendants of the Razakars. Genuine Muslims don't apostatize because they have no connection with the Razakars. The Muslim community is vast, and we have a Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb here. We're all progressing together, as everyone born in India is a child of Mother India. We will always venerate our country. Why should anyone born in this land object to the portrayal of historical atrocities? We aim to provide relief to those in pain. I'm not here to antagonize anyone. This isn't a low-budget film; we've invested over 50 crores to maintain high quality, for my country and its people. I aim to contribute something meaningful in my life, something that will be remembered. History should be turned into films to educate society. Hyderabad's liberation by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel from these clutches is significant. He is the father of Hyderabad. Are there any who disagree?"

- What sparked the idea for this film at this time?

  "The idea struck me as I landed at Renigunta Airport on January 27, 2022, and the term 'Razakar' echoed in my mind. It felt like divine inspiration. I immediately contacted director Yata Satyanarayana. I chose film over writing a book because I wanted to unite people divided by caste and color and ensure the history of Razakars doesn't repeat. I don't oppose any religion. I stand against injustice and am fearless in my country. My message is to prevent the past's injustices from recurring."

- Can this movie benefit your political career?

  "My political career is behind me. I'm looking to retire and spend time with my family. This film was not made for political gain but to deliver a positive message to society, despite facing many challenges."

- Will you continue as a producer?

  "The national media's interest shows the significance of our film. While I may not pursue serious production, I remain a committed citizen. My critique is aimed at the seventh Nizam, not the Muslim community. My fight is for justice in Telangana."

- Regarding September 17 becoming an official commemoration?

 

 "Until recently, there was silence on this matter. However, Amit Shah has been acknowledging September 17 for the past three years, highlighting Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's role. Our film aims to shed light on this overlooked history."

- Has Yata Satyanarayana done justice to the film?

  "He has done justice to every aspect, investing over 50 crores to ensure top quality. The film features heart-touching songs and performances, reminiscent of the grandeur of 'Baahubali.' It's a tribute to our history and those who lived through those times."

- What about the response in Hindi-speaking regions?

  "The response has been fantastic, especially post the success of films like 'Hanuman.' There's a growing interest in Sanatana Dharma, and our film, which also addresses an attack on Dharma, is expected to resonate well, especially in Telugu regions."

- Comparison with films like 'The Kashmir Files' and 'Kerala Stories'?

  "I'm not concerned with comparisons. My focus is on telling the story of the atrocities under the seventh Nizam, a unique and tragic part of our history."

- A message to the audience?

  "This film is a top-tier production, the best film made by someone from Telangana. It's an essential watch for everyone."