Srikanth opens up about Krishna Vamsi Khadgam secrets

Srikanth says Khadgam, directed by Krishna Vamsi, is still one of Tollywood’s best patriotic films. Released in 2002, it mixed patriotism, drama, and romance in a way that still works today. With Ravi Teja, Srikanth, and Prakash Raj in lead roles, the film’s songs and story remain memorable.

Srikanth revealed the producers didn’t want him in the role. “I told Krishna Vamsi I wasn’t interested in being the hero. They wanted Jagapathi Babu instead and even offered a bigger budget if he was cast,” he said.

Krishna Vamsi refused to replace him. “He told them if I don’t act, he’ll find another producer. They asked how a family‑image actor could do a mass role, but Krishna Vamsi was sure I could,” Srikanth said.

Producer Madhu Murali was close to Jagapathi Babu and had made several films with him. Even so, Krishna Vamsi’s decision stood, and Khadgam became one of Srikanth’s career‑defining films.