Director Buchi Babu Sana Says A.R. Rahman’s Chikiri Was Shot Without AI: 'Rathnavelu Gave Authentic Visuals'

Peddi is among the most-awaited films of the year, generating massive excitement ahead of its release. Starring global superstar Ram Charan alongside the stunning Janhvi Kapoor, the film has been in the spotlight since its announcement. The look posters heightened the anticipation, but the recently released song Chikiri Chikiri has taken the buzz to another level. The song has crossed 46 million views across platforms making it a chartbuster already. 

With A.R. Rahman’s electrifying music and Mohit Chauhan’s soulful voice along with Ram Charan’s moves the song is setting social media ablaze, the song has quickly become a global sensation. Reflecting on the massive success of Chikiri Chikiri, director Buchi Babu Sana shared insights into what made the track such a res ni ounding win.

Talking about how he knew the song would be a hit, Buchi Babu Sana shared, "From the moment I heard the tune composed by A.R. Rahman sir, I was confident that we had a winner on our hands. But the response is much bigger, and it is overwhelming. 'Chikiri' is a very colloquial word confined to a specific region, but Rahman sir's tune and Ram Charan garu’s incredible energy in the hookstep made it a worldwide sensation."

Peddi director says A.R. Rahman's Chikri was shot without AI

He further spoke about the song’s authenticity and mentioning the choreographer, he shared, "We wanted to retain authenticity in line with the theme of the film, and I feel that’s what truly resonated with people.  Special mention to our cinematographer Rathnavelu Garu, who shot the song in real locations and has given authentic visuals without any use of AI. Overall, we are extremely happy with the song's response and this is just the beginning."

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ALSO READ: Peddi Song Chikiri Chikiri Out: Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor And A.R. Rahman Create Pure Musical Magic In Movie's First Single

Written and directed by Buchi Babu Sana, Peddi stars Ram Charan in the titular role, alongside Shiva Rajkumar, Janhvi Kapoor, Divyendu Sharma, and Jagapathi Babu. Produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru under his banner, Vriddhi Cinemas, and in collaboration with leading production house Mythri Movie Makers, the film is scheduled for release on March 27, 2026.