'Satyam Sivam Sundaram': Siddique's Telugu debut

Hyderabad, July 30 (IANS) Malayalam director Siddique, who made hit films like "Ramji Rao Speaking", "Godfather" and "Chronic Bachelor", is making his debut in Telugu with entertainer "Satyam Sivam Sundaram".

"We intended to make a hilarious comedy devoid of slapstick," says Siddique, who has roped in young Nitin and Meera Chopra to play the lead pair.

"I declined many Telugu offers, including a remake of 'Godfather' since I wasn't confident about the language, reveals the bearded director."

He thanks writer Chintapalli Ramana for helping him come up with a watertight script and "innumerable" comic punch lines.

"I learnt a lot while working with the talented director," says Ramana, returning the compliment.

Says Siddique: "I was amazed by the immense talent of Telugu comedians who can also look menacing in villainous roles."

Nitin claims that while the plot is familiar, "the narration will make all the difference".

Meera, who began her innings with a dud like "Bangaram", is looking forward to her next release.

Producer Srinivasa Raju claims to have pestered Siddique for nearly six years before clinching the deal.

"Siddique wanted to make his debut with a unique plot and once we found it, we commenced the shoot," says Raju, who intends to release the film in August.