How did you get the role of Rajamannar in Salaar?
I don’t know much about it and don’t have a specific process because I always believe that good directors find you wherever you are. The character and name of the person who did it is very clear in their mind. So whether you are in the Himalayas or on the moon, they will surely find you. I met Prashant Neil in Bangalore, but the role came much later. Then we got along really well and I was hoping that I would get a good role with him and it happened, I’m really happy with that.
What was it about Salaar that attracted you the most?
First of all, I loved the whole world of Salar. Second, Prashant is special in itself. Thus, everything from the production house onwards was amazing. Everything was special to me and today it has become super special to me.
Tell us something special about Prabhas and also how was the experience of working with him?
Prabhas is a person with no controversies attached to him. He is a very amazing personality. This is because he is a very nice person. It is very sweet and genuine. It is very easy to fall into the trap of this industry, but he has carved out a niche for himself and lives in it. He knows very well how much I like him. I am very happy for him and in fact the whole world is very happy for him. He is the king of the box office.
You have also worked with top South and Bollywood actors and directors. In such a situation, how do you consider Prashant Neil different from the rest?
I have worked with big South directors and also worked with Salman Bhai in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan in Bollywood. I will say for the first time that he believes in the magic of cinema and is very easy to work with. I used to tell people that everything was so easy, my shots were all done in one take and there was no need for a second take. So working with them is very easy and comfortable. This is what makes them special. He treats cinema as cinema, something that makes him more committed to his work.
For some time now the top films of south industry are not possible without you. What is this success mantra?
I am lucky that I got the opportunity to go from being a lead actor to a character artist and also got the love of the audience. Due to which films are being released continuously. From character actor to villain roles, the audience is choosing me. I believe people appreciate talent.
What made you decide to switch from lead to character actor in 2013-14?
First thing, we must always do something new. I didn’t want to stick to one thing. I am the hero, the lead and this is what I have to do. In the year 2008, I made a decision and I spoke to the producers that it would not be a profitable deal for you to make a film with me in the lead role. So I asked him to spray this film. A lot of people even badmouthed me for saying this. At that moment I made a decision. Then I had to wait for some time and then I started getting character roles. That’s how I adapted myself to the character.
You are doing films like Kanguwa, Guntur Karam and Pushpa 2 in the south, do you have any projects in Bollywood as well?
Yes, many projects are currently being explored. But I will soon be seen in a film with Aayush Sharma.