Sandeep Reddy Vanga: 'Shiva' Inspired Me to Become a Director

Renowned director Sandeep Reddy Vanga has credited the 1990 film "Shiva" as a significant inspiration behind his decision to become a filmmaker. Directed by Ram Gopal Varma and starring Nagarjuna, "Shiva" was a groundbreaking movie that paved the way for a new era of Telugu cinema.

Sandeep Reddy Vanga reminisced about watching "Shiva" as a child and being deeply impressed by its narrative, background score, and framing. He was particularly drawn to Nagarjuna's intense performance and Ram Gopal Varma's direction. "If I hadn't watched 'Shiva', I wouldn't be a director today," Vanga confessed.

The director recalled being struck by the film's college backdrop, the conflict scenes, and the silent action sequences, which still resonate with him. "No matter how many times I watch 'Shiva', I never get bored. I was excited to hear that it's being re-released on the 14th of this month, and I'm looking forward to watching it on the big screen again," Vanga said.

Currently, Sandeep Reddy Vanga is working on his next project, "Spirit", starring Prabhas. He revealed that the intensity and realism in "Shiva" have influenced his approach to filmmaking for this new movie. It's clear that Ram Gopal Varma's "Shiva" has had a lasting impact on Vanga's filmmaking style and mindset.

The article highlights the significant influence of "Shiva" on Sandeep Reddy Vanga's career and his continued admiration for the classic film. By sharing his personal experience and connection to the movie, Vanga provides insight into the power of cinema to inspire and shape creative vision.


Sandeep Reddy Vanga's admiration for "Shiva" is not just a passing appreciation; it's a deep-seated respect for the film's craftsmanship and its impact on his own career. As a director, Vanga has been known for his bold and unflinching storytelling, which is evident in films like "Arjun Reddy" and "Kabir Singh".

In an industry where influences are plentiful, Vanga's acknowledgment of "Shiva" as a key inspiration is a testament to the film's enduring legacy. Ram Gopal Varma's direction and Nagarjuna's performance in "Shiva" set a new benchmark for Telugu cinema, and it's clear that Vanga has drawn upon that legacy in his own work.

The re-release of "Shiva" is a welcome opportunity for a new generation of cinephiles to experience the film's raw energy and intensity. For Sandeep Reddy Vanga, it's a chance to relive the memories and inspiration that "Shiva" provided, and to continue pushing the boundaries of storytelling in his own films.

As the Telugu film industry continues to evolve, it's directors like Sandeep Reddy Vanga who are keeping the spirit of "Shiva" alive, pushing the boundaries of what's possible on screen, and inspiring a new generation of filmmakers.