Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran has shared an emotional revelation about the origins of his upcoming film Vilaayaath Budha, disclosing that the project was initiated by late director Sachy during the final stages of their collaboration in Ayyapanum Koshiyum.
The Genesis of Vilaayaath Budha
In a recent interview with The Cue, Prithviraj recounted how Sachy first introduced him to G. Indugopan's acclaimed novella. During the last phase of shooting Ayyapanum Koshiyum, Sachy approached him with the book, character concept, and film idea that would eventually become Vilaayaath Budha.
The actor immediately expressed interest in the project, prompting Sachy to contact writer Indugopan directly to secure film rights. Indugopan happily granted the rights immediately, with Prithviraj waiting on the other end of the phone for confirmation. The team had even finalized their producer, setting the stage for production to begin.
A Vision Interrupted and Continued
Tragically, during the early pre-production stages of Vilaayaath Budha, director Sachy passed away unexpectedly, leaving the project's future uncertain. Reflecting on this difficult transition, Prithviraj explained that the film naturally found its way to director Jayan Nambiar.
According to the actor, Jayan Nambiar was the only other person who had closely witnessed Sachy's original vision for the film and truly understood the spirit of what the late filmmaker had envisioned. This made him the ideal candidate to carry the project forward while honoring Sachy's creative intentions.
Honoring Sachy's Legacy
Prithviraj expressed strong confidence in the final version of the film, revealing that he has already watched the completed cut. I'm certain Sachy would have been happy with how it has turned out, the actor stated, emphasizing their success in capturing the late director's intentions on screen.
The film, which follows a sandalwood dealer in Marayoor, Idukki district, entangled in an ego-driven conflict with his former teacher over an ancient sandalwood tree, features Priyamvada Krishnan, Shammi Thilakan, Teejay Arunasalam, and Anu Mohan in pivotal roles alongside Prithviraj's portrayal of Double Mohanan.
Vilaayaath Budha is scheduled for worldwide release on November 21, bringing to life a project that began as Sachy's passionate recommendation and has evolved into what Prithviraj believes is a faithful representation of the late director's creative vision.
