Film Industry is such a place where talent speaks volumes. There is a lot of scope to prove ourselves and only one chance is all we need. In film industry there are many who can become stars over night and zeroes the other over night. It all depends on your determination, hard work and of course some luck too. However it is extremely difficult to succeed if there is no god father for you. But it doesn’t mean you cannot succeed. You can still flourish. Patience is the key here.
Here is young talent Chaitanya Saagiraju who have abundance of talent but struggled to get movie offers. It took him 7 years to finally get a movie chance. He has done number of short films, given infinite number of auditions. He followed only three things in these 7 years. Patience, Hard work and dedication.
There you go, he finally made it to the silver screen. Chaitanya Sagiraju debuted as an actor in the movie Hit which has Vishwak Sen in lead role, directed by Sailesh Kolanu and produced by Nani. The movie has ended up as decent hit and Chaitanya has got loads of appreciation.
Today is his birthday and we are here to know ups and downs in his life and what is his target etc., Here we go.
Tell us about your journey in short films..
When I decided that movie is my destiny, I didn’t want to go into any film institute. Instead I chose short films. It has given enough confidence as an actor. It tested me, it gave me a glimpse of what it will be like in movies and it is the reason for me becoming an actor.
How did you get this opportunity?
To be frank, I went into depression mode in 2019 as it was already 7 years that I tried to be in movies. There are number of short films I have done and numerous auditions I have attended to. But movie offer didn’t come my way. Out of frustration I have done this Independent short film Sada Mee Premalo. At the same time Sailesh Kolanu who is in search of new artist found me in Youtube and called for auditions.
I have done many variations in auditions without taking any time which impressed the director. He talked to Nani and everything else was a miracle for me.
What is the best compliments you received after Hit?
Oh there are many. Being a small artist and debutante I didn’t expect Nani to comment about my acting. So I wanted to take his feedback. But after watching the preview he appreciated me. He even talked to me so much in the success party. This is my best moment. Even Vishwak Sen too appreciated me. He said that I have done tremendous job and predicted that I will get so much recognition. Director Sailesh Kolanu gave me the life time moment. He said that industry didn’t recognize your talent but I came from Australia and did it. He predicted that I will be a huge success in the industry.
HIT Director Sailesh Kolanu about Chaitanya Sagiraju
What is the decision that you took after Hit success?
I feel lucky to have got such a role that gave me recognition for my debut film. I have decided that from here on, though my role’s duration is less, it has to be something special. It has to be challenging and should have a scope to prove myself. I will not leave such films no matter what.
Do you have any dream director/producer list?
I didn’t think that way. But to name one name I want to act in the direction of Rajamouli and in Dil Raju’s production. Coincidentally, both of them came as guests to the Hit pre release event. It made me so happy.
What is your target in this industry?
I didn’t put any conditions in selecting roles. But audience should recognize me. They should feel like, If Chaitanya is doing a movie that will be something special. I want to be in the lines of Fahad Fazil, Vijay Sethupathi, Dhanush, Vicky Kaushal. I want to be as versatile as they are. I hope it will happen.
Tell us about your director Sailesh
He is such a talented guy. He will not compromise in terms of perfection. He wants to become a writer. But Nani made him director. He got trained for 6 months in direction. He is a superb talented person.
Are there any offers after Hit?
I got few offers from noted production houses. After discussions everything was on hold due to corona effect. We will get more clarity after this issue settles down. There is also an offer from Aha, but I will make it official after signing the dotted line.
What is that we learned in the process of becoming an actor?
I am not in a position to give advice. But many ask me Is short films the best way to enter industry? But I have to say this. Nothing comes easy in this industry. There has to be so much of patience. Not a single moment you should drop your shoulders. Your family should support you. This is what I learned from my experience.
We concluded the interview by wishing Chaitanya Sagiraju, this corona effect will be settled down soon and he will sign more projects.
Chaitanya Varma Sagiraju with Nani and Vishwak Sen at HIT movie success party
