At the pre-release event of Thandel in Hyderabad on Sunday, director Sandeep Reddy Vanga made an interesting revelation about actor Sai Pallavi. Speaking at the event, Vanga shared that he had initially considered Sai Pallavi for the female lead in Arjun Reddy.

“I had the impression of Sai Pallavi in my mind while casting for Arjun Reddy,” he said. However, when he contacted a Malayalam casting coordinator about her availability, he was advised against it. “He asked me to forget about it as she would not even wear sleeveless, let alone do such romantic scenes,” Vanga added.

Sai Pallavi, who attended the event, smiled at the remark. Vanga further commented on her consistency in choosing roles. “Actresses change over time based on opportunities, but to see Sai Pallavi not changing at all. It’s really great, actually,” he said.

Sai Pallavi responded by praising Arjun Reddy and its final casting. “The actress who played Shalini was brilliant, and so was Vijay as Arjun Reddy. I believe certain actors are destined to play certain roles,” she said.

She also credited Vanga as a filmmaker with a distinct voice and strong following. She said that directors should have a voice of their own. 

Thandel, directed by Chandoo Mondeti and starring Naga Chaitanya, is set for release on 7 February.