M. Sridhar Rao

President
ISB CEE Alumni Association,
Hyderabad Chapter,
ISB ,Gachibowli, Hyderabad.

M Sridhar Rao, an ISB alumnus and an entrepreneur, is a dynamic individual who loves to explore the various facets of life. After finding success in his construction business, he wanted to try something new with his career. A risk taker by heart, he decided to produce films. While he was producing A Film by Arvind, he happened to meet Kunta Nikkil and after hearing the script of The Angrez, decided to produce the film. He is now proud to be presenting The Angrez 2.
Interview with M Sridhar Rao:
  • Q: 'The Angrez' has been the most successful Hyderabadi film and a pioneer in this genre. Tell us a little bit about how it all happened?

    A: I was planning to diversify in my career during 2004 and 2005. I stepped into making of'A film by Arvind'.During that time, I happened to meet my childhood friend Maruth,a guitarist in our school days.He introduced me to Nikkil whonarrated the story of the Angrez.

    I suddenly felt nostalgic. I could rememberthe time that I spent at my grandmothers' place during school vacations.I could relate to saying Maa ki kirkiri, which is our own Hyderabadi lingo. I have spent a majority of my school holidaysnear Charminar enjoying the Irani chai and the galli language of Hyderabad.

    Even though the project involved some risk factor, it's creativity appealed to me and I enjoyed taking up the risk. Thus 'The Angrez'was born, and so were Salim Pheku and Ismail Bhai.

  • Q: You're an Entrepreneur by profession and own a successful Construction Company. How did you get into films?

    A: As I mentioned earlier, I wanted to diversify and explore other ventures. I have always been a risk taker and enjoy indulging myself in creative tasks. Hence, I chose to explore films.

  • Q: After producing films like 'The Angrez', ' A Film by Arvind' and now 'The Angrez 2', what are your expectations from the audience?

    A: Fun, humour &laughing makes you forget who you are. Manmade citadels like Charminar give direction beyond civilization. Culture is within us and can't be separated.Experience all these in one film, with friends and everyone else.

  • Q: Is it difficult to be a movie producer? What is it that motivates you to make such entertaining and quality films?

    A: It's not difficult to make films.It's the passion that drives us. When we do anything we are good at doing, it contributes happiness.As I said, I take risks but I also calculate. Having done my Post Graduation in Construction Engineering andManagement, I always want to explore new avenues and land at new shores.

  • Q: What is your advice to budding film-producers?

    A: New producers are always welcome. Interest in creativity and entrepreneurship skills will be of great help.Don't go by fake storytellers and try not to build castles in air.One good example is Maruti who was my co-producer in A film by Arvind.He is a fine example for passion and focus.