Destiny changes for Trivikram

A true sportsman, he worked doggedly to realise his dream of becoming a cricketer. Playing the sport since he was a child, he initially represented district Tumakuru, and later represented the Karnataka State Cricket Team in the under-19 and 21 category. The stage was set for him to represent the state in the famed Ranji Trophy but fate decried otherwise. He suffered a serious ankle injury which kept him away from the game for nine months. The 24-year-old independent and self-sufficient Trivikram did not lose hope, and started all over again as a gym trainer. A few well meaning contacts led him into movies and into the small screen. The new hunk on Kannada TV, popularly known as Superstar Samrat from Padmavathi speaks to Bengaluru Chronicle about his journey. He awaits the release of three movies including one directed by Action King Arjun Sarja — Prema Baraha, where he plays a supporting role as a commando.

“I started my acting career with films even before soaps. Apart from Prema Baraha directed by Arjun Sarja Sir, I have also acted in two other films as a lead actor — Navaratri and Adhyaya. When I came across a new mega daily soap was being launched, I went for auditions, and the makers thought I was apt for a lead role. I am very glad that I am a part of Padmavathi. It has brought me recognition beyond expectations,” says Trivikram. Arjun Sarja is introducing his daughter Aishwarya Arjun with Prema Baraha in his comeback directorial venture. Chandan, who started his career on the small screen plays the lead in the film.

Even before the mega venture, Padmavathi, Trivikram had appeared in a guest role in Jothe Jotheyali. “Before acting, my aim was to become a successful cricketer. I had been playing the sport for a long time. After representing the state under-19 and 21, I was set to make my debut in the Ranji tournament but unfortunately, I suffered an ankle injury which kept me away as I was advised bed rest for nine months. Instead of seeking financial assistance from my parents during the break, I started working as a gym trainer, where I met several personalities from the entertainment industry. It took another six months for me to realise that I can play a lead role on screen,” he recalls.

Trivikram, who had no formal training or experience in acting started from scratch, and was determined. “I do not believe in luck. When I realised that I had to take a decision after my dream of becoming a cricketer fell short, I chose acting. A couple of colleagues in the industry helped me learn acting — director of Godhuli, Sunil Kumar and my co-actor from a film, Karthik. I also managed to complete my studies with a master’s in business administration,” Trivikrama adds.

About working in both films, and serials, the actor says that while he has to spread the word about his films, the reach of the small screen is much more and people recognise his work instantly. “The small screen is the best platform for struggling actors like me. It can make or break one’s profession. I keep getting several offers from the Telugu and Tamil film industry but my first and foremost priority is Padmavathi. I am thinking of embracing those offers when I have more time. I shall also keep doing serials as along as I can,” he says.In Navarathri, Trivikram plays an NRI and in Adhyaya, he will be seen as rich man who ends up falling in love with a deaf and dumb girl.

Sharing his experience working with Arjun Sarja, he adds, “When I stand next to him, Arjun Sir looks more younger, and energetic. He treats me like his son, and his vast knowledge of films is amazing. He is like a Wikipedia on films. He is always encouraging me to learn the art of filmmaking.” And it seems to be working!