Dinakar Thoogudeepa: Darshan was not my first choice for Jaggu in Navagraha

The director shares his thoughts on the re-release of the 2008 cult classic, his experience working on the film, the characters, the making process, and more
Dinakar Thoogudeepa: Darshan was not my first choice for Jaggu in Navagraha
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The Darshan-starrer Navagraha is set for a re-release after 16 years. Originally a cult hit in 2008 and produced by Meena Thoogudeepa Srinivas, this film holds a special place in many people’s hearts.


“This is the first time Navagraha is getting re-released,” shares Dinakar Thoogudeepa. “It holds significance for it was made under Thoogudeepa Productions, and it marked the first time my brother, Darshan, played a full-fledged hero in a film under our home banner.”


The encouragement for the film’s re-release came from Dinakar’s family, particularly Darshan’s son, Vineesh. Dinakar says, “Vineesh fell in love with the film when he watched it on TV and found it interesting for young audiences today. He even said, ‘It would be great for my friends to watch!’”
Discussing what it means to watch the film now, Dinakar says, “Even though it was made in 2008, it captures themes that connect with today’s generation.”

While Dinakar doesn't expect the film to replicate its original success, he hopes a new audience will appreciate it. "Many youngsters I meet, who weren't even born when Navagraha was first released, tell me they've watched it numerous times on TV. They still find it captivating on the big screen, and some are even asking about Navagraha 2. We're contemplating that and hoping to carry this brand forward."

Reflecting on the making of Navagraha, Dinakar describes it as a "fabulous" experience. "I initially wanted to debut with Navagraha, but due to budget constraints, I chose to start with Jothe Jotheyali. The success of my first film paved the way for Navagraha."

The idea for Navagraha struck him during his PUC days while pondering his future. "I was in Mysuru, grappling with dilemmas about my career. Conversations with friends sparked an idea that eventually turned into a film."

Dinakar emphasises the importance of having a strong technical team for this project. "It was an enjoyable experience. Since we were working under our banner, there was no pressure to rush the film. I meticulously planned each shot. We made full use of the Steadicam, and aerial shots were quite a mystery back then; we had to hire choppers for a couple of scenes."

Casting for the film was straightforward for Dinakar, who shared close bonds with many actors, including Tharun Kishore Sudhir, Vinod Prabhakar, and Srujan Lokesh. "Darshan was not my first choice for the character of Jaggu; I initially wanted Vinod for the role. However, when I pitched the story to Darshan, he expressed his desire to play the negative character instead. His enthusiasm changed everything."

Dinakar also sought out Arjun Sarja for the police role and travelled to Chennai to share his vision with the actor. "Unfortunately, I couldn't convince him, and eventually, we cast Sourav in that role."

Navagraha features a talented ensemble cast, including Sharmiela Mandre, Giri Dinesh, Dharma Keerthiraj, Varsha, and Kruti Pratap. The film boasts dialogues by AV Chinthan, cinematography by AV Krishna Kumar, and music by V. Harikrishna.

Looking ahead, Dinakar is excited about the prospect of reviving their home banner through a Navagraha franchise. "When I made Navagraha, I never imagined it would be produced under our banner. Nothing was planned back then, and it will be the same case now. But I believe Navagraha 2 is going to happen," he concludes.

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