Ever since making his debut with Leader in 2010, Rana Daggubati has continued to enthrall audiences with his stunning performances — whether it be as the menacing Bhallaladeva in Baahubali or in Rana Naidu, the Netflix series. The actor is daring, experimental, and dreams big.

As he continues to stride ahead in the film industry, so does his banner, Spirit Media. One of his notable upcoming projects is Kaantha, a period drama starring Dulquer Salmaan and directed by Selvamani Selvaraj.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Daggubati emphasized his conviction that Dulquer was the perfect fit for the role: “Each story decides who its actor is in some manner, and everyone is right for a certain role. And I think if you're trying to be a producer of a film, it's about finding the best for that story. The second I heard it, I didn't see anyone but Dulquer in it. So I was like, if he was not in it, we probably wouldn't have made the film.” Notably, Daggubati co-produces the film with Dulquer’s Wayfarer Films.

He also spoke about Dulquer’s unique artistic presence, saying, “I think Dulquer carries that so beautifully with the kind of cinema that he does and the characters he plays. He's so secure in terms of just being an actor, things don't need to go into a mainstream beat of things for him to create a successful film.”

Daggubati’s passion for meaningful cinema is evident. Kothapallilo Okappudu, produced under his banner and directed by Praveena Paruchuri, is set to release on July 18. He was drawn to its authenticity and emotional depth, noting that such human stories are now rare in mainstream cinema. Rooted in legacy, he reflected, “What gives me belief is my grandfather... So to me, that’s where all the direction comes from. If you want to do something, you just get up and do it.”

Expectations soar high with the latest collaboration of two of the biggest stars in South Indian cinema.