EXCLUSIVE: ‘I was inspired by Salman Khan’s Bajrangi Bhaijaan,’ says Vijayanand producer Anand Sankeshwar on the power of cinema

The Indian cinema, over time, has seen a number of biopics on the lives of sportsmen, freedom fighters and many integral figures. Adding to that list is the recently released biopic on VRL logistics founder Vijay Sankeshwar and his son Anand Sankeshwar, titled Vijayanand. What makes it special is that this is the first biopic made in the Kannada industry and in an exclusive conversation with Bollywood Bubble, the inspiration behind Vijayanand, who is also its producer, Anand Sankeshwar opened up about the power of cinema and how he, himself was inspired by Salman Khan starrer Bajrangi Bhaijaan.

Anand revealed that many people had approached his father and him to write a book on their lives, but they chose to instead make a movie. Explaining why, he said, “A lot of people wanted to make a book of about 100-200 pages on dad (Vijay Sankeshwar) for IIM and MBA students so that (they can learn) what has gone behind building VRL brand. A message of ‘never give up in life’ is something they will get to read. But at the same time, Rishika ji and Nihal had approached us for a movie, and here is what happens with a movie that even an uneducated (person) can also get to see the visuals and get to grasp what is going on. And that was one idea why we went with the movie rather than a book.”

 

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Taking his own example, the new producer shared, “When I watched Bajrangi Bhaijaan, I got inspired that a small girl comes to India for treatment.” He, then informed that after being inspired by Bajrangi Bhaijaan, he launched an app that can help people locate their missing known ones. The step was lauded by everyone, and within a month of its launch, the app was even awarded for its noble intention.

For the unversed, Vijayanand is a pan-India movie which is based on his chronicles. He is the founder of India’s largest logistics group VRL Group. Directed by Rishika Sharma, Vijayanand was also released in Hindi. The movie also stars Shri Anant Nag, Nihal, Bharath Bopanna, Siri Prahalad.

Watch the full interview here:

Also read: EXCLUSIVE: Vijayanand actor Nihal Rajput credits Kantara, Tumbbad as he talks about local content connect with audience