Our Goal Was Innovation, Not Routine Horror movie– Director Maruthi!

Director Maruthi said he consciously avoided making a routine horror comedy with pan-India star Prabhas and instead blended fantasy and psychological elements to deliver a large-scale film. The audience’s positive response, he said, is the reason the film has crossed the ₹200 crore box-office milestone. Released just ahead of the Sankranthi holidays, the film has already posted strong numbers and is expected to gain further momentum during the festive season. Prabhas’s new look, colourful songs, and energetic dance sequences have been widely appreciated by fans.

Maruthi noted that presenting a fantasy-driven psychological concept on screen was challenging, especially visualising hypnotism and reverse-sequence scenes. He credited Prabhas for actively contributing ideas and fully committing to the demanding roles. Despite online criticism, Maruthi remained confident, pointing out that theatres are witnessing packed houses, even in smaller towns. Calling The Raja Saab a significant learning experience, he added that while he has not decided on his next project yet, directing a film with Chiranjeevi someday would be truly special for him.