Rana Daggubati, known for his roles in blockbuster movies such as Baahubali, is venturing into new territories in the film industry, expressing excitement for his upcoming projects and a philosophical outlook on his career. Despite not having any film releases this year, the actor feels fortunate and is focusing on supporting and promoting alternative cinema through his production house, Spirit Media.
Daggubati is channeling his energy into Spirit Media, aiming to create a consistent platform for indie films in India. He observed that while commercial movies thrive due to their replicable success, indie films often disappear after film festivals. Daggubati aims to change this, drawing inspiration from how Baahubali paved the way for pan-Indian Telugu cinema. He envisions a system where indie films can gain nationwide reach and influence streaming platforms after establishing theatrical success. To achieve this, Spirit Media is developing a "jury-type" system to evaluate films from across India. Recently, Spirit Media has backed "23," directed by Raj R, known for "Mallesham" and "8 AM Metro," a film inspired by true events exploring the complexities of justice. Spirit Media is also set to release "Sabar Bonda," which won the Sundance 2025 Grand Jury Prize.
Beyond his production ventures, Rana Daggubati is set to appear in Mirai Jaitraya, a sequel to the film Mirai, playing a Ravana-inspired antagonist. The film explores the conflict between Rama and Ravana in the Kali Yuga, adding mythological depth to the narrative. In addition, he will be seen in the second season of "Rana Naidu".
Daggubati also shared his views on the concept of a unified Indian film industry. He humorously suggested that if all regional film industries, including Bollywood, were to move to a central location like Bhopal or Goa, it would instantly create a unified industry. He also emphasized the need for collaboration between the tech and entertainment sectors, drawing comparisons to Silicon Valley, where technology is integrated into every sector.
In an interview, Rana addressed the debate around nepotism in the film industry, acknowledging that having a family background in film provides more opportunities and a deeper understanding of the industry. However, he stressed that ultimately, an actor must perform in front of the camera, and family connections only provide a foundation. He drew parallels to other industries, stating that understanding the nuances of an industry comes naturally when your family is involved.
Daggubati has also commented on work-life balance for actors, stating that the Telugu film industry typically has 8-hour shifts, in contrast to the 12-hour shifts common in Maharashtra. He noted that some actors prefer to work only four hours a day and can still be productive. He believes that work culture varies across regions and projects, and it ultimately depends on individual preferences.
Rana Daggubati's recent activities reflect a multifaceted approach to cinema, balancing his roles as an actor and producer while advocating for the growth of independent films and a more unified and collaborative Indian film industry.