I wrote the script and wanted to make the film in Hindi. When I came to Hyderabad, Ramuji's (Ram Gopal Varma) nephew Suman Varma and I saw Samanyudu of Jagapathi Babu and found him interesting. We thought, why not ask him.

When we bounced the story idea to Jagapathi Babu, he liked it. Today I feel only Jagapathi Babu suits the role. That's the reason I find it difficult to shoot it in Hindi because I can't think anyone beyond Jagapathi Babu to play the role.

Did you sign Mamta after Yamadonga?

No. Before Yamadonga.

You also introduce Madhurima in the film. Did you find her in Mumbai?

Yes. I took Ramuji's help in choosing the heroine. He sent me pictures of 3-4 heroines and out of that, I picked up Madhurima.

There is a sizzling song between Jagapathi Babu and Mamta Mohandas. Why was that included? Nowadays these kinds of songs seem to be the USP of movies...

I don't agree with that. If you do one sensuous song and a film can work, then I think you can shoot four-five sensuous songs and don't have to shoot the rest of the film. I think these kinds of songs do help but they have to do with the direct content of the film. Otherwise they would fall flat.

Is it also to show the softer side of the hero?

I wanted to see the other side of my hero rather than the softer side.