How does it feel to have your movie be the first to release in theaters after the long gap due to Corona?
It feels incredible and great. I had been to Eluru for a shoot recently, and people over there were really excited to see me. The same thing happened when I participated in an ad-shoot recently. I think that people are missing the theatrical experience, and would love to get back to the theatres.
How is it working with Nabha Natesh for your?
She’s a very hardworking person, and she has a really interesting character in Solo Brathuke So Better. She performed her character exceptionally, and I think it’s because she really owned her character.
You also keep doing a lot of charity work for a lot of people. Who is your inspiration in this aspect? How do you feel when people look at you like a real life hero?
It’s my mother, and obviously my uncle Chiranjeevi. He has inspired me greatly throughout all of my life. It’s because of him that I am who I am today. So obviously he inspires me to do a lot of charity. All I can do is help someone in need, I don’t expect anything in return, not even gratitude, I help people because I think it’s my responsibility to society.
A few words about your director Subbu?
He’s an extremely hardworking person, who is dedicated to his craft and has an incredible vision. He became a director and managed to make a film like SBSB because of his vision and hard work.
The album of Solo Brathuke So Better has also received a tremendous response and is trending everywhere right now. The same happened with your previous film Prathiroju Pandage. Interestingly, Thaman is the music director for both films. Did you ask Thaman for a superhit album both times?
No! I think that the friendship and bond Thaman and I share have become a major plus point for both the films, which is why the albums have turned out to be this highly successful. Moreover, I think it’s the directors who are majorly responsible for the successful albums, more than me.
How many projects are lined up for you now?
I am working on director Deva Katta’s project currently, and I have two other projects in hand.
We have recently heard that you are gearing up to share the big screen with Megastar Chiranjeevi?
I’ve always felt bad that everyone, including my brother, got a chance to share the big screen with my uncle. Unfortunately, I haven’t gotten that chance yet. I am very much looking forward to sharing screen space with him. I am just waiting for my uncle’s call, and the moment he gives it, I will be there.
A picture of yours and Powerstar Pawan Kalyan’s has become viral in recent days. What’s the story behind that photo?
He was leaving at the time of that photo, and I asked him for one picture with me. He jokingly asked me if I never clicked a photo with him in my life. To that, I said that I would like to treasure this memory, and then we clicked the picture.
Did you enjoy Niharika’s wedding?
I enjoyed myself very much. My brother and I put our phones away the entire time and promised to ourselves that we would enjoy this time the best we can, as it is like our own sister’s wedding.
When can we expect a multistarrer featuring you and Varun Tej?
We both are ready to do it as soon as we get the right script.
We heard that you are a racer as well. Is that true?
No, I am not a racer, I just love bikes. I am more into sports actually.
Is there anything else that you would like to say, on account of Solo Brathuke So Better being the first film to release in theatres post lockdown?
A lot of people extended their support to the many crew members that work during the shooting of a film. However, everyone forgot about the sad state of those who own theatres. I spoke to a lot of theatre owners, and all of them were in literal tears. That was when I decided that it would be the best option for me to release my film in theatres, and I am lucky enough to be able to do it. Apart from that, I think the audience will enjoy going back to the theatres and getting the proper theatre experience after this long.
Did R. Narayana Murthy get to hear the script? Did he watch the film or trailer, if so, what were his thoughts on the film or trailer?
Yes, we made sure that Murthy garu got to listen to the script. We unexpectedly met him recently, and he was really happy with the trailer. He told us how incredible it was.
How do you take memes about you? And one word about memers?
I enjoy memes a lot, whether good or bad. Hats Off to all the memers for their creativity.
One word about your producer BVSN Prasad?
Most energetic producer.
Any words on piracy?
We can’t say anything about those who pirate the film, because that is the way of their life. All I can ask is for the audiences to not support piracy, and to watch the film in theatres.
-Interviewed by Harish