Director Om Sai Prakash decided to make a devotional and mythological film and consulted Balagangadharanatha Swamiji before working on the film.[1][3] Murali, whose career was at a low at the time, decided to accept the role of Balagangadharanatha Swamiji as Om Sai Prakash delivered several successful films.[4] To prepare for the role of Balagangadharanatha Swamiji, Murali shaved his head.[5] For months, he ate only vegetarian food, did not drink alcohol and called people as "my child".[4] Forty political leaders play roles in the film.[6] Sundarnath Suvarna of Sri Manjunatha (2001) fame was brought in as the cinematographer after Om Sai Prakash was impressed by his work.[1] A procession for Balagangadharanatha Swamiji from Freedom Park to Palace Grounds was recorded and used for the film.[7]