Rehearsed ‘Pavazha Malli’ steps for just 2 days: Kayadu on 2 AM call behind blockbuster music video

The independent music scene in Southern India has found a new anthem in composer Sai Abhyankkar’s latest offering, Pavazha Malli. Since its debut, the track has transformed into a bona fide digital phenomenon, amassing over 88 million views on YouTube. The vibrant music video features Abhyankkar himself alongside actor Kayadu Lohar, whose infectious chemistry and energetic choreography have captivated audiences worldwide.

Speaking recently to Galatta Plus, Lohar shared the unconventional story behind her involvement in the project. The actor revealed that the collaboration began with a "random" late-night call from her manager, followed by a direct pitch from Abhyankkar at 2:00 am.

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"He was like, ‘Kayadu, we have this one beautiful song and I really want you to be a part of it. I think it is going to blast and you are the perfect one for it,’" Lohar recalled.

Struck by the composer's confidence and the song’s immediate appeal, she agreed to the project instantly, citing the track’s "cultural and rooted" wedding-style energy as a significant draw.

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The journey to the screen was not without its challenges. A dance enthusiast, Lohar admitted that she is not formally trained and had a mere forty-eight hours to master the choreography. Her schedule was further complicated by filming and promotional commitments for her film Funky in Hyderabad. Despite the "sleepless nights" and constant travel between Chennai and Hyderabad, the actor described the experience as immensely rewarding.

As Pavazha Malli continues its dominant run on the charts, Kayadu is preparing for her next major cinematic outing. She is set to appear in director Dijo Jose Antony’s highly anticipated film Pallichattambi, where she will star alongside Tovino Thomas and Vijayaraghavan. (With inputs from Agencies)