Watch: Youngest Debutant’s Emotional Cinema Journey

In the latest episode of Gulte Pro’s Debutant Diaries, we interacted with young filmmaker Vinay Ratnam, director of the upcoming film Sri Chidambaram Garu, which is releasing in theatres on February 6.

Vinay’s love for cinema began in Rajahmundry. Growing up watching Chiranjeevi films in packed theatres gave him a strong connection with the big screen. Those childhood memories slowly built his interest in films, even before he seriously thought about becoming a director.

After finishing his 10th class, he and his friends shot a small horror short film during a night out. Inspired by Ram Gopal Varma’s short film contests at that time, they wanted to try filmmaking just for fun. Vinay admits the short film was not good, but the process of creating and editing it gave him a new kind of happiness. That experience stayed with him.

Though he later went to Punjab to study engineering at Lovely Professional University, cinema was always on his mind. He loved computers and wanted exposure outside his hometown, but his passion for films never faded. Finally, he decided to follow his dream and started working on Sri Chidambaram Garu with the support of close friends.

Making the film was not easy. There were financial struggles and stressful days when money was tight. His friends took on multiple responsibilities during production and stood by him throughout the journey. Their teamwork helped the film move forward despite the challenges.

When asked about payment, Vinay said opportunity matters more than money at this stage. For him, proving himself with a good film is the priority.

Vinay believes in emotional storytelling. He feels deeply connected to films that touch the heart, and he hopes Sri Chidambaram Garu will create the same emotional impact on the audience.

From a movie lover in Rajahmundry to a debut director ready for a theatrical release, Vinay Ratnam’s journey reflects passion, patience, and belief in cinema.