Sailesh Kolanu Embarks on Romantic Journey with 'Emo Emo Idi'
Renowned filmmaker Sailesh Kolanu, celebrated for his intense crime narratives in the HIT series and Saindhav, is charting a new creative course with his upcoming project Emo Emo Idi. This romantic drama, scheduled for a Dussehra release this year, marks a significant departure from his signature dark and gritty storytelling style.
A Deliberate Shift in Creative Direction
In an exclusive conversation, Kolanu revealed his long-standing desire to explore lighter, more emotionally resonant genres. "I've always wanted to explore something more romantic and slightly comical," the director confessed. "Most of my films so far, including the HIT series and Saindhav, have been intense and dark. I want to push myself into a different space as a filmmaker."
The film features emerging talents Roshan Meka and Preity Mukhundhan in lead roles, promising fresh chemistry on screen. While the narrative primarily unfolds in the vibrant urban landscape of Hyderabad, a substantial portion transports audiences to the breathtaking vistas of Himachal Pradesh.
Scenic Backdrops as Narrative Devices
Kolanu emphasized how the script inherently demanded picturesque locations to amplify its emotional core. "The script itself demanded a scenic backdrop," he explained. "There's an eight-to-nine minute stretch set in the valley, which is important narratively. We have shot a song sequence there. A key turning point happens there, and that's where the story takes off."
The director elaborated on nature's profound impact on cinematic storytelling: "Nature has a way of heightening emotions. Snowy mountains, wind and rain can make you more receptive to what the story is trying to convey." For Emo Emo Idi, the crew embarked on a nine-day shooting schedule in Lahaul Valley, capturing stunning visuals of snow-capped peaks, expansive valleys, and a meticulously choreographed song sequence.
Kolanu's Established Connection with Northern Landscapes
This isn't the director's first cinematic expedition to India's northern regions. Kolanu previously filmed in Himachal Pradesh for HIT: The First Case (Hindi version) and later in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, for HIT: The Third Case. "I'm often drawn to locations that aren't overused," he noted. "Places like Shimla, Manali, and Spiti offer excellent infrastructure and support."
Recalling the Pahalgam schedule, Kolanu shared a sobering anecdote about security challenges. "We worked with protocol permissions, with CRPF personnel assigned for security. We later learnt there was terrorist activity in the region while we were shooting, and the attack happened about 15 days after we left." He expressed hope for the region's revival: "When something like this happens, it sets the region back. But with strong security measures now in place, I hope shoots and tourism return — it's one of the most beautiful parts of our country."
Anticipating a New Chapter in Telugu Cinema
The announcement of Emo Emo Idi has generated considerable buzz within the Telugu film industry and among audiences. Key points of interest include:
- A complete genre shift for a director known for taut thrillers
- The pairing of fresh faces Roshan Meka and Preity Mukhundhan
- Extensive shooting in visually spectacular Himachal Pradesh locations
- A strategic Dussehra festival release window
- The incorporation of natural elements as emotional amplifiers
As Kolanu ventures into romantic territory, Emo Emo Idi represents not just a new film, but a bold artistic evolution for one of Telugu cinema's most distinctive voices. The industry eagerly awaits whether this romantic drama will achieve the same critical and commercial success as his celebrated HIT franchise.
