Naga Chaitanya is taking his role as a fisherman in the upcoming movie Thandel to heart, both on and off the screen. Directed by Chandoo Mondeti, the film stars Naga Chaitanya alongside Sai Pallavi and is inspired by a real-life story. Set to release in theaters on February 7, Thandel explores the lives of fishermen from Srikakulam, with Naga Chaitanya playing a key role.
Recently, during the shoot on the shores of Visakhapatnam, Chaitanya went the extra mile to connect with the local fishermen community. True to a promise he made earlier, he cooked chepala pulusu, a traditional fish stew, for them.
Learning From the Locals
Chaitanya spent time interacting with fishermen to prepare for his role. He wanted to understand their lives, routines, and traditions to make his character feel authentic. During these conversations, he promised to learn how to cook chepala pulusu as well as they do. The fishermen were pleasantly surprised when he kept his word.
A video shared by the makers of Thandel captured this heartfelt moment. It showed Chaitanya marinating freshly caught fish with spices before cooking it in a traditional earthen pot over an open flame. While stirring the pot, he joked about his cooking skills, saying, “Please don’t mind if it isn’t good; this is my first time cooking it.”
Sharing a Meal Together
Once the dish was ready, Chaitanya served it to the fishermen and even joined them for a meal. He ate the stew with rice, just as the locals prefer. His genuine effort to connect with them won him many smiles and appreciation. The fishermen were impressed not only by his cooking but also by his humility and willingness to learn.
Behind the Scenes of ‘Thandel’
The movie has been creating a buzz since its announcement, and moments like this add to the anticipation. Thandel delves into the challenges faced by fishermen, blending drama with real-life experiences. Sai Pallavi, known for her natural acting, will play a pivotal role alongside Chaitanya.
The scenes shot in Visakhapatnam are crucial to the storyline. The filmmakers wanted the actors to experience the environment firsthand. Chaitanya’s decision to cook for the fishermen adds authenticity to the film and shows his dedication to the craft.
Fans React
Fans of Naga Chaitanya are thrilled to see his commitment to the role. Social media platforms are buzzing with clips of him cooking chepala pulusu, with many praising his down-to-earth nature. “This is why he’s a people’s favorite,” one fan commented, while another said, “He’s not just acting; he’s living the character.”
A Special Bond
For the fishermen who were part of this experience, it wasn’t just about a movie star keeping a promise. It was about someone stepping into their world with respect and curiosity. Chaitanya’s gesture made them feel seen and appreciated.
As Thandel gears up for its release, this heartfelt story has only heightened the excitement. Fans and locals alike are looking forward to seeing how Chaitanya’s efforts translate to the big screen.
Mark your calendars for February 7 to catch Thandel in theaters. If this behind-the-scenes moment is anything to go by, the movie promises to be as authentic and heartwarming as its lead actor’s actions.
