During a promotional event for the latest film Thandel, Sandeep Reddy Vanga shared that the real-life style of Tollywood star Naga Chaitanya played a significant role in shaping the looks and persona of these on-screen characters. Sandeep Reddy Vanga, renowned director of hits like Kabir Singh and Animal, has recently revealed a surprising inspiration behind two of his most iconic characters—Kabir Singh and Ranvijay.
Vanga, who is known for his distinctive filmmaking style, mentioned that he was particularly impressed by Naga Chaitanya’s unique fashion sense and casual yet charismatic persona. For Kabir Singh and Ranvijay (Animal), Vanga instructed his costume designer to incorporate elements inspired by Chaitanya’s personal style. This decision was made to give the characters an authentic, grounded appeal that would resonate with the audience.
Naga Chaitanya’s real-life wardrobe choices, which often feature relaxed, effortlessly stylish outfits, seem to align perfectly with the rebellious, raw, and intense nature of both Kabir Singh and Ranvijay. Vanga’s decision to draw from Chaitanya’s fashion sense paid off, as the characters became symbolic of a tortured yet confident masculinity that audiences could connect with.
The revelation about Chaitanya’s influence sheds new light on Vanga’s creative process. It also highlights how regional stars, even if not directly involved in a project, can leave an indelible mark on mainstream cinema. Vanga’s unique approach to character design, rooted in real-world influences, emphasizes the importance of blending authenticity with cinematic storytelling.
Fans of both Naga Chaitanya and the iconic characters from Vanga’s films are now seeing a deeper connection between their on-screen personas and the stylish actor off-screen. This revelation not only celebrates the influence of Chaitanya’s style but also shows how directors can draw from the broader cultural and fashion trends to bring depth to their characters.