Imagine an ancient kingdom where matrilineal society thrives, with a queen holding the reins and male heirs being overlooked. Over time, a transformation occurs, disrupting this gender equilibrium and heralding the rise of patrilineal society and patriarchal norms. This intriguing concept forms the core of “Swag,” the Telugu film written and directed by Hasith Goli, set to hit theaters on October 4. Featuring an ensemble cast including Sree Vishnu, Ritu Varma, Meera Jasmine, Daksha Nagarkar, and Sharanya Pradeep, the film spans multiple timelines to tell its unique story.
The teaser and trailer for “Swag” hint at an unconventional narrative, compelling us to seek insights from Hasith Goli about the inspiration behind the story. Despite being swamped with post-production work, Hasith generously offered some time for an interview. “Voices advocating gender equality on social media give the impression that we are moving towards a more inclusive society. However, beyond the digital space, gender disparities remain stark,” Hasith explains. “This observation was one of the catalysts for ‘Swag.’ There were other factors as well, but delving into them before the film’s release might reveal too much.”
“Swag” marks Hasith’s second directorial venture, following his 2021 comedy-drama “Raja Raja Chora.” Reuniting with Sree Vishnu, Hasith was confident that Vishnu could effectively portray diverse characters across different historical settings. Though the narrative roots itself in gender issues, Hasith aimed to craft an engaging, non-preachy film.
“When we inquire about someone’s lineage, responses typically highlight fathers, uncles, and grandfathers, rather than mothers or grandmothers,” Hasith notes. “While ‘pitru devathalu’ traditionally connotes male ancestors, the original term wasn’t gender-specific.” He mentions that certain areas in Kerala and Assam still uphold matrilineal cultures, and ancient societies often had women as heads of clans making crucial decisions. This disparity prompted Hasith to wonder about the historical shift towards male dominance.
In “Swag,” Ritu Varma stars as Queen Rukmini Devi, representing the female-centric Vinjamara Vamsam, while Sree Vishnu plays the chauvinistic Bhavabhuti Maharaja. “Power, whether with a man or woman, can lead to authoritarianism over time,” Hasith observes. Despite exploring serious themes, he intended for the film to incorporate elements of fun and drama. The kingdoms and dynasties depicted are purely fictional.
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For contemporary settings, Hasith chose an unspecified urban city. Some production designs evoke the 1970s, ‘80s, and ‘90s, while others blend historical influences with creative liberties. Ritu Varma, Meera Jasmine, and Sharanya Pradeep appear both in historic and modern eras, whereas Daksha Nagarkar portrays a character aligned with a modern influencer persona named Singareni, linked to one of Sree Vishnu’s characters.
Hasith is particularly excited to gauge audience reactions to Meera Jasmine, returning to Telugu cinema after a decade. “Meera ma’am brings an effortless expressiveness to her role,” he says. Connecting with Meera initially posed a challenge, but once Hasith managed a three-hour narration, she eagerly joined the project. Like many other actors, she dubbed her own lines for the film.
Creating characters with distinctive traits across different eras challenged Hasith during the filmmaking process. Ritu Varma’s character, for example, aspires to be a tomboyish feminist in the modern era, reflecting a confident and independent attitude. “Drawing the unique aspects of each role comes naturally,” Hasith remarks. He refines the script based on feedback from friends and collaborative discussions with the editor, music composer, and cinematographer, considering them his “first audience.”
For “Swag,” Hasith reunites with cinematographer Vedaraman Sankaran and music composer Vivek Sagar. Praising Vedaraman’s attention to detail and efficient use of budget, Hasith mentions they worked on crafting distinct visual tones for each era depicted in the film. Vivek Sagar, whose musical prowess often earns him the nickname ‘swara swagger,’ is commended for his innovative compositions. “He blends diverse instrumentation in surprising ways, such as pairing western tones with traditional veena music,” says Hasith.
Hasith, an alumnus of BIT Pilani, left a corporate career to follow his filmmaking passion. Reflecting on his journey, he states, “Entering the film industry was my choice, even knowing it wouldn’t be easy. I have no complaints and still have a long way to go as a filmmaker.”
“Swag” promises to be a multilayered film that not only entertains but provokes thought about longstanding societal norms and gender dynamics. As its release date approaches, anticipation builds to see how audiences will receive this bold and innovative narrative.
