Tollywood has witnessed a variety of heroes since times immemorial. We had commercial heroes who exhibit heroism, stunts and powerful punch dialogues. But there is another set of heroes who are so believable as boy next door with their natural acting and histrionics. While we saw heroes like Nani and Sharwanand excel in this department earlier, it is time for another talented actor Raj Tarun to show his brilliance! This actor began his career with short films and rose to fame with debut film Uyyala Jampala opposite Balika Vadhu fame Avika Gor. Now the same pair acted again in recent release Cinema Chupistha Maava which became a good hit. Here is an exclusive chitchat with the rising star!
Hi Raj Tarun..congratulations on your new film Cinema Chupistha Maava!
Hi..thanks a lot!
How are you feeling about the remarkable success of the film?
I am very happy with the result! I knew the film would be successful but the result exceeded my expectations. Right from the film’s release, I was flooded with praises from film fraternity which included even big names!
Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja heaped praises on your performance in the film. How does that feel?
I am still unable to believe that a star like Ravi Teja spoke about my acting. In one way he is an inspiration for me to work harder to become an actor. He reached greater heights in films without having any background and that is admirable.
Now, you are called as Jr. Ravi Teja in the film industry! Your comment?
I think it is too early to be called so because I did only two films. I have long way to go now. Nevertheless, his influence on any free hand actor is inevitable. So in that sense, I wouldn’t mind if I'm called so but I would rather not take it seriously!
As you have two back to back hits, speculations are rife that you will you increase your remuneration now...
Not at all. As of now I didn’t accept any new film. I am doing two films and would think about the next project only after these two are done. Whenever I accept a film I think about the market and budget of it. Making money isn’t the first priority I have. I don’t want to sell myself short by accepting films just for money.
Who would you credit for the success of Cinema Chupistha Maava?
The reason for a successful film is the hard work and luck of 200 people who worked for it. Everybody worked really hard for this film and I don’t want to call it a one man show of myself or the director. This success deserves to be shared by all.
What was your family’s feedback on the film?
They are very happy about the output and have already watched 5 times! My mom and dad don’t prefer to praise me directly but speak very highly of me behind. They are quite happy with my progress.
How do your friends help you out during this transformation phase?
My friends are my biggest strength. Whenever they call me they ask about my film’s progress and release dates. Right from the time of its release they actively participate in theatre banners and enjoy the success as much as it is theirs.
Do you think you have changed much compared to before film career and now?
My bank balance has increased now and I got a car. Earlier, I used to share room with friends and now I have an own house. Though my lifestyle has changed, my inner self is always the same.
You have been doing romantic comedies mostly. Will you change the genre anytime soon?
The two new films I am doing currently belong to a new genre. I look for a good storyline before accepting a film. I am open to any genre as such.
In your debut film Uyyala Jampala you acted with new artists. How was it acting with more senior artists in Cinema Chupistha Maava?
We tend to learn more when working with experienced actors. In this film, I got a chance to act with experienced actors like Rao Ramesh garu, Brahmanandam garu, Saptagiri garu and I felt very happy to work with them. The greatest quality of people like Rao Ramesh and Brahmanandam garu is that- they mingled well with me and never treated me like a newcomer.
How was it working with your lucky charm Avika Gor?
Avika was quite senior to me by the time I did my debut film Uyyala Jampala. Not many knew about me but she was famous nationwide with in Balika Vadhu. But she is quite a humble and down to earth girl. I’ve never seen her sitting in a caravan or rest during the sets. Even when her scene was done she used to hang out with us. We all used to sit on the floor and talk! Avika is such simple girl. Our chemistry clicked mainly because she involves so greatly into the character. I learnt many things from her and would love to act with her again.
Upcoming movies?
I am doing a film under Sukumar sir’s banner for which Devi Sri Prasad is scoring music. I am very excited to be a part of it. Also did a Kannada film in a big banner which is almost due for release.
Okay..thanks and wish you the best for future projects!
Thanks a lot!