Ali is a unique actor who made a mark in Telugu Cinema not only with his full fledged roles as a comedian, but also as an entertaining hero right from the 90s. He starred as a hero with comedy films such as Yamaleela, Ghatotkachudu, Pittala Dora et al, and has come a long way to reach the milestone of 50 films as a hero. Ali is set to arrive as hero once again with his upcoming film Alibaba Okkade Donga. A press meet on the occasion has been organized and here are few excerpts from the interview:
Hello Ali..
Hi..
How do you find your hero journey tilldate?
Alibaba Okkade Donga is my 50th film as hero. 20 years ago on February 14th, my first film as a hero- Yamaleela had its press meet in the same Annapurna Studios. That is why, I found it appropriate to organize Alibaba Okkade Donga press meet in the same venue. This has been an unexpected journey for me till now. I never thought I could pull off this far as a hero for so long.
About your experience of getting into your first film as hero- Yamaleela...
Yamaleela was supposed to be done by Mahesh Babu. Director S.V.Krishna Reddy initially narrated the story to Krishna. Though he liked the story, he thought Mahesh Babu would be too young for it then and wanted the film to commence after four years. Then S.V Krishna Reddy collaborated with producer Atchi reddy and roped in myself for a remuneration of Rs.50, 000/-. Even Ghatotkachuku was signed at the same time for a remuneration of 1 lakh rupees. (Smiles)
About your upcoming 50th film as hero - Alibaba Okkade Donga...
I wouldn’t say it is as great as Yamaleela but it is a good film. The story is based on a missing ATM money box that travels in a security van. Hero (Myself) is an unemployed youngster who aspires for a Sub-Inspector job. How is this missing box related to our hero forms the main plot of the film. It is a funny story hands down!
How is it working with the film’s crew?
Though it is a routine dialog - it was great fun and I'm glad I got a good team for my 50th film. Srikanth is a debutant composer but gave brilliant tunes. Camera John (Hema’s husband) was excellent and I am sure he will get a break with this film. Director Phani Prakash is a very good writer, he made the film well. He has a great future. I'm thankful to my producers who invested on me.
Any special memory you would like to cherish relating to this film?
(Smiles) Power Star Pawan Kalyan attending the audio release of my film and releasing the audio is the most special and happiest moment for me.
You have been in Television industry as well. Usually film actors venture into Television only when they start fading out on bigscreen. Please share your thoughts on it.
I must say I was fortunate in this regard. My reach has increased by venturing into Television industry. I’ve appeared on many shows. I'm glad people welcomed me there as well. The show that I host 'Ali 369' started with 23 episodes but has been extending to 139 episodes - Well this is the proof (Laughs). I want to reach 150 episodes for my exclusive show.
Any special message for the audience?
I hope audience will enjoy watching this film and bless me and my film. Ali Baba Okkade Donga is a good entertainer with loads of fun.
Good luck...Thank you!
Good luck...Thank you!
Thank you..
