# Devara’s DOP Rathnavelu Finally Speaks Up — And His Answer Will Make You See the Film Differently

URL: https://technosports.co.in/devaras-dop-rathnavelu-finally-speaks/  
Published: 2026-06-13  
Updated: 2026-06-13  
Author: Reetam Bodhak

When *Devara: Part 1* hit theatres in 2024, the mixed reactions weren’t just about the story — fans and critics went after the film’s visual presentation, with cinematographer **Rathnavelu** becoming a surprising target for online trolls. Nearly two years later, he’s broken his silence, and what he’s revealed is a candid, behind-the-scenes lesson in how [cinematography](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinematography) shapes a star’s power on screen.

## Devara: Part 1 — Overview

| Detail | Info |
| --- | --- |
| **Film** | Devara: Part 1 |
| **Lead Actor** | Jr NTR (dual role — father & son) |
| **Director** | Koratala Siva |
| **Cinematographer** | Rathnavelu |
| **Supporting Cast** | Saif Ali Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, Prakash Raj, Srikanth, Shine Tom Chacko |
| **Release Year** | 2024 |
| **OTT Platform** | Netflix |
| **Sequel Status** | No confirmed update on *Devara: Part 2* |

## What Did Rathnavelu Actually Say?

Speaking to M9 News, the veteran cinematographer addressed the backlash head-on with refreshing candour. Rathnavelu said, “If we have to show Jr NTR and Ram Charan as tall, the background guys shouldn’t look overpowering. In Devara, I told them not to put tall guys around NTR. In such cases, the cameraman is helpless. At least the duration of wide shots shouldn’t be too long.” [Yahoo!](https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/facebook-down-messenger-app-not-135032251.html)

![Devara](https://technosports.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/dseverere-1024x575.avif)

This is a real problem that rarely gets discussed publicly. In Indian mass entertainers, the hero’s physical dominance is as much a part of the spectacle as the action itself. When background extras or supporting actors inadvertently dwarf the lead in a wide frame, it undermines the very mythology the film is trying to build.

Rathnavelu further explained that every hero requires a different visual approach, and that wide frames and top-angle shots naturally carry the risk of making an actor appear smaller — especially when surrounded by physically imposing supporting actors or dominant background elements.

In short: he flagged the issue, gave his recommendation, and when it wasn’t fully heeded, the trolls came for him. That’s the invisible pressure behind the camera that audiences rarely acknowledge.

## What Is Devara: Part 1 About?

The film follows the story of a powerful sea warrior who protects a coastal village in the 1980s that is involved in bad activities. After realising these activities are harming innocent lives, Devara turns against his comrades, including his close friend Bhaira, triggering a violent feud. His mysterious disappearance later leaves behind a complicated legacy for his timid son, Vara. Jr NTR plays both characters — a casting challenge that itself added pressure to every visual decision on set. [Yahoo!](https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/facebook-down-messenger-app-not-135032251.html)

## What’s Next for Jr NTR?

Following his appearance in *War 2*, Jr NTR will star in the action entertainer *Dragon*, directed by Prashanth Neel. The film is slated for release on June 11, 2027. Expectations are sky-high, and fans will be watching the visuals very, very closely this time. [Yahoo!](https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/facebook-down-messenger-app-not-135032251.html)

For more South Indian cinema news and updates, head over to [TechnoSports](https://technosports.co.in).

## FAQs

### **Q: Why was Devara’s cinematographer Rathnavelu trolled?**

  
Fans criticised certain visual choices in *Devara: Part 1* that they felt didn’t present Jr NTR powerfully enough, particularly in wide shots where background actors appeared physically dominant.

### **Q: Is Devara: Part 2 confirmed?**

  
As of now, *Devara: Part 2* has received no official update and it remains unclear whether the sequel is still in development or has been shelved.