Oh, it has been overwhelming at times. From a small budget film to a medium one, involving established stars in a different set-up, has been exciting and enjoyable. In Maya Bazaar, there are less grey areas. I don't believe in the dichotomy of art and commercial cinema. Maya Bazaar had a novel idea and an exciting story. I would like to do these kinds of films on and off. There is disdain for 'commercial cinema' but it has a lot of talent. I noticed that choreographers, editors, stuntmen and other technicians want to do something creative within the mainstream format. The story dictates the style of filming and I believed Maya Bazaar should have songs.

What attracted you to direct this film?

The elements of socio-fantasy and the seamless manner in which the social and fantasy genres blend. The socio-fantasy is unique, and gives me the liberty to be non-realistic. Grahanam was realistic. Here, there are reference to other movies, and self-references. It gave me creative liberties. I could use song and dance. The film deals with contemporary issues in a funny and not a didactic manner.

You wrote the screenplay along with producer B Satyanarayana based on a story by Jaykumar...

The developing process took about 6-8 months. It needed a certain screenplay technique. The beginning, middle and end are well-knit. This classical cinematic structure is most challenging though it looks easy. We concentrated on the structure and dialogue. The late DV Narasaraju (who passed away recently) gave us a lot of critical inputs. We are dedicating the film to him.

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