Chiranjeevi's Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu Made on Modest Rs 28 Crore Budget
In a surprising revelation, director Anil Ravipudi has confirmed that the blockbuster film Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, starring megastar Chiranjeevi, was produced on a budget of just Rs 28 crore. This figure starkly contrasts with widespread industry speculation that the film's overall budget touched Rs 200 crore. Despite the modest production cost, the film has achieved remarkable commercial success, earning over Rs 300 crore globally.
Director Anil Ravipudi's Budget Management Strategy
In a recent interview with Great Andhra, Anil Ravipudi disclosed precise details about the film's financials. "The film-making cost was between Rs 28 crore and Rs 30 crore," he stated, clarifying that it did not even reach the Rs 30 crore mark. Ravipudi, known for his expertise in mounting commercial entertainers on controlled budgets, explained that his initial target was Rs 25 crore, but unavoidable circumstances led to additional expenses.
Key factors contributing to budget overruns included:
- Approximately Rs 1.5 crore lost due to a song set damaged by unexpected rainfall, requiring reconstruction.
- Losses from date clashes and state strikes, which extended the shooting schedule by five days.
- The initial 82-day shoot plan stretched to 87 days, resulting in an extra Rs 3 to 4 crore in costs.
Efficient Planning and Cost Control Measures
Ravipudi emphasized his commitment to efficient planning without compromising on quality. He shared how the team managed to create a lavish scale while keeping expenses in check. For instance, the house exteriors were shot at a resort near Shamshabad, rented for about Rs 8 to 9 lakh per day. The director also highlighted the importance of speeding up the shooting process, completing the film in 85 days to control overall costs.
"I spend whenever and wherever the movie needs it. Wherever I can cut costs, I do that," Ravipudi said, noting that they built house interiors and an entire street set from scratch. This approach allowed him to maintain high production values while adhering to a strict budget.
Balancing Remuneration and Production Costs
Addressing the buzz around the Rs 200 crore budget, Ravipudi smartly discussed the challenge of working with big stars who command hefty fees. He revealed a simple rule he follows: "If remuneration is high, the production budget should be controlled. If the production budget is high, then the remuneration should be adjusted." He stressed that allowing both to be high could lead to financial failure, which he avoids at all costs.
Ravipudi also shared his strategy of ensuring financial safety before a film's release. "I mostly try to make sure that the film reaches its breakeven point, if not profit, before release," he explained. For Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, this meticulous planning ensured that producers were happy even before the film hit theaters, and its subsequent success has delighted all stakeholders.
Box Office Triumph and Industry Impact
Despite an unusual Monday release on January 12, Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu emerged as the Sankranti season's savior, especially after Prabhas' The Raja Saab failed to meet expectations. The film opened strong with Rs 43 crore collection in India and crossed the Rs 200 crore mark domestically within 11 days. According to makers, it has now surpassed the Rs 300 crore milestone worldwide.
Comparing it to his previous Sankranti release, Sankranti Vastunnam (2025), which was made on a Rs 55 crore budget, Ravipudi noted that Mana Shankara posed a bigger challenge due to its high-budget nature. "Making the current film profitable was a big challenge because it is a high-budget film," he said, adding that its profitability for producers, exhibitors, and distributors is a significant achievement.
Star Power and Market Value Considerations
Ravipudi concluded by discussing the importance of budgeting based on a star's market value. "Whenever we calculate numbers, it is always based on the hero's stamina and market value," he stated, highlighting Chiranjeevi's ability to generate substantial revenue. This insight underscores the delicate balance between star power and financial prudence in the film industry.
The success of Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, made on a controlled budget, serves as a testament to Anil Ravipudi's directorial prowess and strategic financial planning, setting a benchmark for future commercial entertainers.
