Imagine walking into a quaint little café in Chennai, sipping on a cup of steaming hot coffee, and overhearing a couple discussing their favourite romantic dramas. It’s a scene that plays out every day in our bustling cities, and it’s a testament to the enduring power of love stories on the big screen. As we count down to the grand release of Chennai Love Story on July 24, we caught up with the film’s lead actor, Kiran Abbavaram, to get his take on the most romantic dramas out there.
For Kiran, who has been wowing audiences with his nuanced performances in recent years, the answer is clear: K. Raghavendra’s ‘Chandamama’ (1980) takes the cake. Released over four decades ago, this Telugu classic has stood the test of time, and its timeless romance continues to captivate audiences to this day. ‘Chandamama’ may have been made in a different era, but its themes of love, loss, and longing remain as relevant today as they were back then,’ Kiran observes, his eyes lighting up with excitement.
Why ‘Chandamama’ stands the test of time
So, what makes ‘Chandamama’ so special in Kiran’s opinion? For starters, the film’s storytelling is nothing short of magical. Set in the pre-Independence era, the movie follows the journey of a young couple, who fall deeply in love despite the societal obstacles that stand in their way. The film’s narrative is a masterclass in subtlety, with each scene unfolding with a gentle pace that allows the viewer to absorb the emotions of the characters. And then, of course, there’s the music – ‘Chandamama’s soundtrack is a treasure trove of nostalgic melodies that continue to transport listeners to a bygone era.
Kiran is quick to point out that the film’s enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless power of love stories. ‘Love is a universal language that transcends generations, cultures, and borders,’ he notes. ‘It’s a feeling that we’ve all experienced at some point or the other, and that’s what makes ‘Chandamama’ so relatable and endearing.’
Kiran Abbavaram’s take on modern rom-coms
But while ‘Chandamama’ may be Kiran’s go-to romantic drama, he’s also a fan of more modern takes on the genre. ‘I think films like ‘Ala Modalaindi’ and ‘Eddaina Jarigindi’ have done a great job of updating the traditional romantic comedy for a new generation,’ he comments. ‘These movies have a fresh, youthful energy that resonates with modern audiences, and they’ve helped to keep the genre alive and kicking.’
As we wrap up our conversation with Kiran, it’s clear that he’s passionate about the romantic drama genre, and that his love for ‘Chandamama’ is only matched by his enthusiasm for the art of storytelling itself. ‘For me, a great romantic drama is one that makes me feel something – whether it’s joy, sadness, or a mix of both. It’s a feeling that stays with me long after the credits roll, and that’s what makes cinema so special.’
With Chennai Love Story set to hit theatres on July 24, it’s time for audiences to experience the magic of the romantic drama genre once again. Will Kiran’s picks be on your watchlist? Let us know in the comments!
Expert Context: The enduring power of romantic dramas
Romantic dramas have been a staple of Indian cinema for decades, and their enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless power of love stories. Whether you’re a fan of classic films like ‘Chandamama’ or modern takes on the genre, there’s something to be said for the way these movies make us feel. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a romantic drama, don’t be afraid to revisit a classic or try something new – you never know what you might discover!