When Sekhar Kammula’s most anticipated campus film Happy Days released in 2007, a new wave of young actors and actresses came into being. While actresses like Tamannaah went into commercial films and glamor, one actor named Nikhil was greatly noticed for his energy levels and peculiar characterization in the film. After Happy Days, Nikhil focused on feel good youthful films but he got the real break with Sudheer Varma’s Swamy Ra Ra- an adventurous thriller. Then he took a new path with mythological suspense thriller with Karthikeya. Now, the actor is all set to entertain the audience with Shankarabharanam. Here is an iQlik exclusive chitchat with the actor:
Hi Nikhil.. how are you doing?
Hi.. I am doing great!
How did you get into this interesting project Shankarabharanam?
Kona Venkat sir called me to his office once and I was naturally quite excited. When he narrated me the storyline I asked for the complete script. I was looking for a full fledged commercial film and I thought this was the right opportunity. I am glad that I can get near family audience with this flick. This film has all sorts of emotions in a complete package.
There has been a speculation that you would be doing a remake?
Yes. We already got the remake rights of it. However, it wouldn’t be a frame by frame remake but just the basic storyline.
How was it working with Uday in Shankarabharanam?
Uday Nandanavanam did a great job for this film. But his association with Kona Venkat and cinematographer Richard Prasad worked wonders. I was in awe with their understanding at work.
What about associating with Kona Venkat for the first time?
The best aspect of Kona Venkat is he takes inputs from everyone before coming to a final decision. He is a fantastic writer with innovative ideas in mind.
Did you get to do any special homework to prepare yourself for this role?
I play the role of an NRI who comes to India. After Surya vs Surya I did a filmmaking course in US. I happened to observe a lot of NRIs there and got the costumes from there itself. I tried to be as authentic as possible for the role. I worked out especially for a shirtless scene as well.
After scoring three back to back hits, did your way of story selection change?
I hate to be monotonous in my films. In fact, I still regret that I did Disco. But it made me understand of a good story and being extra careful in choosing my upcoming films.
Is there any reason for doing only two films a year?
I cannot do more projects because I keep exclusive time for preparation of the role and promotions after it is ready. I believe in quality rather than quantity as far as work is concerned.
What about marriage plans?
I told at home that I will get married once I get two hits. Now that I already got, lot of buzz already began at home. I might get married in coming summer!
What is your opinion on love?
I am currently single. I had a small love story in Engineering days but that is common. However, I believe that marriage should be left to elders as they know what is best for us.
You seem to be quite away from celeb parties?
Well, I prefer to stay in my own world.
Upcoming projects?
I am working on Karthikeya-2 which will be directed again by Chandoo Mondeti. Script work is already done and I am quite excited to be a part of it.
