Deepak Gangadhar’s directorial debut starring Krishna and Rachita Ram has been titled Love Me or Hate Me. Interestingly, this is the first line from the classic and evergreen song from Dr Rajkumar’s film, Shankar Guru. Debutant director Deepak says the the popular line was chosen because it suited the plot. The story moves between two timelines — the present and a flashback against a college backdrop placed in 2015.

Deepak, who has previously worked in Thoogudeepa Productions as an associate director and a film distributor, is now foraying into direction and will be bringing together Krishna and Rachita for the first time on the silver screen. Jointly produced by Madan Gangadhar and Nandish, the initial plan was to begin the project in April. “We are ready with the script and will roll out the project as soon as the government unlocks the city, and we are given permission to shoot,” says Deepak.

The director is now finalising the rest of the star cast, and is in talks with actors Sadhu Kokila and Chikkanna for prominent roles. “We are also scouting for a fresh face for the second heroine role,” says Deepak, adding, “The film will have Sridhar V Sambhram scoring the music, while the rest of the technicians are yet to come on board.”  

Krishna is currently committed to Love Mocktail 2, Nagashekar’s Shrikrishna@gmail.com, Deepak Aras’s Sugar Factory, and the Kannada remake of Tamil superhit Oh My Kadavule. Prior to the lockdown, Rachita was juggling shooting for Khadar Kumar’s Veeram and Love You Rachchu with Ajai Rao.