There is considerable discussion in Tollywood over the reported funding requirement for Varanasi.
According to industry buzz, a massive Rs 500 crore loan is being offered for the film at an interest rate of 11 per cent.
Under the reported arrangement, whenever the overseas rights for any territory are sold, the loan amount would be recovered from the proceeds of that sale.
In simple terms, the loan would effectively be repaid from the proceeds generated through the film’s overseas rights.
The person being discussed in connection with the deal is reportedly the head of the well-known Dubai-based distribution company “Phars”.
Interestingly, sources say he has also placed a small condition as part of the arrangement. He has apparently asked for his photograph to be displayed on screen at the beginning of the titles.
After all, it is quite common for films to feature a “Thanks” card carrying the names, logos and photographs of people who supported the project. In some cases, audiences even see dozens of such acknowledgements.
So, some in the industry feel that such a request may not be unusual if the person is indeed helping arrange such a large amount.
For now, however, this remains industry buzz, with the reported financing arrangement continuing to generate curiosity around Varanasi.
Interestingly, when we contacted the Phars office, they denied that any such loan arrangement exists with Varanasi. However, highly placed and reliable industry sources continue to speak about the reported deal.
