ZEE5 and SRT Entertainments' "Vikkatakavi" offers audiences a unique experience as a period series, says director Pradeep Maddali

ZEE5, known for impressing audiences with unique content in web series and films, is all set to stream a brand-new web series, Vikkatakavi, starting November 28. The series will be available in both Telugu and Tamil. Produced by the renowned SRT Entertainments banner, Vikkatakavi stars Naresh Agastya and Megha Akash in lead roles, with Ram Talluri as the passionate producer and director Pradeep Maddali, who previously directed the blockbuster web series ‘Sarvam Shaktimayam’, has directed this series as well.. This is notably the first-ever detective web series set against a Telangana backdrop. Director Pradeep Maddali has shared some intriguing insights about this period series.

How did the journey of Vikkatakavi begin?

The story of Vikkatakavi was written by teja desraj, a writer who had previously worked with director prashanth Varma on films like Awe and Kalki. Teja, who is a good friend of mine, pitched this story to ZEE5 and got their approval to develop it as a series. As ZEE5 began discussing the project with various actors and directors, I happened to meet Teja. During our conversation, he told me about Vikkatakavi and asked if I would be interested in directing it. I listened to the story and found it to be quite challenging. SRT Entertainments' Ram Talluri and the ZEE5 team asked if I could complete it within a specified budget, to which I agreed. That’s how my journey with Vikkatakavi began.

What kind of experience did creating a period series bring?

Working on a period series like Vikkatakavi was a rewarding experience for me as a director, and it gave my team a unique challenge as well. The story has multiple layers, set in the 1940s and 1970s, so creating and capturing that world on screen was exhilarating. Recreating the sets, costumes, language, looks, lighting, and overall working mood from those eras was quite challenging. We aimed to present the series with a royal look while also delivering a strong thriller element that complements the storyline.

How challenging was it to direct a series with a period concept?

Directing a series or film with a period concept is a significant challenge for every technician involved. Every detail needs to be observed meticulously. Translating our vision onto the screen is a big task, as it requires perfect alignment between the director's ideas and those of the production designer, costume designer, and cinematographer. Fortunately, I had an incredible team, where each member treated this project as their own and worked with a strong desire to prove themselves.

Tell us about the cinematographer's working style during the making of Vikatakavi.

Cinematographer Shoaib worked on Vikkatakavi. Although he had previously done only one project and over 300 Punjabi music videos, I decided to bring him on board, which surprised many. Some questioned why I chose a Punjabi cinematographer when there are so many talented cinematographers and friends in the industry. However, the drama in Vikkatakavi is quite unique, and I felt that a fresh perspective would be beneficial. Additionally, I was inspired by the texture in a Bengali film, where a technician named Sanjeev had worked as the colorist. Luckily, Sanjeev happens to be friends with Shoaib, so he also joined our project. Alongside them, we had skilled technicians like costume designer Gayatri and production designer Kiran, making it a strong team.

How many sets were created for the Vikkatakavi series?

For Vikkatakavi, we built a palace set, and we used VFX sparingly, only where necessary. Most of the series was shot on real locations, including Ramoji Film City (RFC) and the Aluminum Factory. We adapted these locations to fit the story, with great support from the production design team and RFC’s team. To my knowledge, no other series has utilized RFC on such a grand scale. We worked so deeply that, when you watch it, you won’t even realize it's RFC—we’ve integrated it seamlessly into the series.

What inspired the concept of the Amaragiri estate in the story?

Before India’s independence, there were many princely states across the country. Among them, Amaragiri represents a fictional estate in Telangana. When writer Teja wanted to tell a unique story, he came up with this idea. The backdrop involves a village that is set to submerge after the completion of the Srisailam project, forming a fictional element around Vikkatakavi in this setting.

Why was the title Vikkatakavi chosen for this fictional detective series?

The title Vikkatakavi was chosen by writer Teja. In Telugu culture, Vikatakavi often brings to mind Tenali Ramakrishna, the witty poet who served in the Vijayanagara empire. Teja explained that Tenali Ramakrishna also acted as a spy for King Krishnadevaraya, playing a key role in safeguarding the kingdom against the Bahmani Sultanate. Since our story's hero has similar qualities, Teja felt Vikatakavi was a fitting title.

What was the reason for casting Naresh Agastya as the lead?

Before I came on board as the director, the makers approached a few other actors, but it didn’t work out. Once I joined, I suggested Naresh Agastya for the role. I had seen his performances in Senapathi, Mathu Vadalara and I was impressed by his acting skills. At that time, ZEE5 was working with Naresh on Paruvu, so it was easy to meet him. After a look test, the entire team agreed that Naresh was perfect for the role of Vikkatakavi. He completely immersed himself in the retro look of the character.

How was Naresh Agastya's character designed?

Naresh’s character was crafted to embody the cleverness associated with Tenali Ramakrishna, ensuring his wit remained central. His character is a young man from Hyderabad, speaking both Urdu and Telugu, which we researched to accurately depict his style and demeanor. In the story, Naresh plays a detective who arrives in the fictional Amaragiri region to solve a local problem for money, which leads to unexpected events. Naresh is a talented actor, known for naturally holding his characters with strength and depth.

What is Megha Akash’s role like?

Senior actor Siju Menon plays the aging king of Amaragiri. Megha Akash portrays his granddaughter, the princess of Amaragiri. Her character is a doctor studying psychiatry, adding a modern touch to her royal heritage.

What secret in the Amaragiri region will you be showing?

In the 1940s, an event takes place in the Amaragiri region, which is later repeated in 1970. The local people regard it as a curse. The hero, upon arriving in the region, investigates whether this is truly a curse or if there is another explanation. To find out more, you'll have to watch the series to discover the mystery.

Will there be a Vikkatakavi Season 2?

Yes, there will be a Vikkatakavi Season 2. Writer Teja is already working on it. If everything falls into place, Vikkatakavi 2 will be made on an even bigger scale.

What kind of care was taken with the music?

The music for Vikkatakavi was composed by Ajay Arasada, who recently worked on the music for Ai. He and I have been close friends since 2016, and we always wanted to work together. After I came on board, I asked him to join the project. At that time, the pre-production of Ai had already started. Ajay composed the theme music for the Vikkatakavi motion poster, which everyone liked. Since the series is a period drama, he crafted the background score with a vintage touch to match the setting.

What are the other key roles in Vikkatakavi?

Apart from Naresh Agastya and Megha Akash, the series features several key roles. Siju Menon plays the character of the king, Raghu Kunchi portrays an MLA, while Mukhtar Khan, Tarak Ponnappa, Ramya Ramakrishna, Ashok Kumar, and Amit Tiwari also appear in significant roles.

What are your upcoming projects?

I'm currently working on a new-age sci-fi horror story. Additionally, I'm developing an action thriller fantasy project.