Srikanth Odela thanks The Paradise producer, admits clashes with Nani on set

Director Srikanth Odela used the success celebrations of The Paradise to thank producer Sudhakar Cherukuri, who backed the film with a budget that went well beyond Nani's usual market. The film is counted among the costliest ever made in one report. The producer spent freely on it because he firmly believed in both the star and the director.

The Paradise arrived in theatres on Thursday. Audience response has been mixed, but the film is performing well at the box office. That gave the team a reason to come together and celebrate.

At the event, Srikanth looked back on a long partnership. He said he first joined Sudhakar Cherukuri's production house before Covid, and that the two have now been on this journey for about six years. He thanked the producer for putting up with him and trusting him through the whole making of the film.

The director also spoke about the rumours that Nani was unhappy with him. He did not deny them. Instead, he openly admitted that he and Nani had fights and discussions while the film was being shot. According to reports, he went further and said the talk of Nani scolding him was true. He reportedly added that this kind of friction is part of making a film together, and that Nani puts up with him and simply has to.

Srikanth ended his speech by thanking Nani, the rest of the cast and the technical crew for their work on The Paradise. He made a point of crediting everyone who contributed to the film.

His frank words about the clashes on set, along with his warm thanks to the producer, made for one of the more open moments of the celebration. The team now has a big film running in theatres that is holding its ground despite the mixed talk.