I love stand-up comedians: Raj Tarun

Tollywood hasn’t witnessed many films on stand-up comedians, but the Uyyala Jampala actor’s forthcoming film is creating a strong buzz for its unique genre.

Stand-Up Rahul, which is directed by debutant director Santo Mohan Veeranki, is the story of a reluctant stand-up comic who doesn’t stand up for anything in life. However, he finally finds true love and learns to stand up for his parents, his love and his passion for stand-up comedies.

The actor goes on to tell us how the film’s team wanted to shoot the character as authentically as possible. “So for my role as a stand-up comic, I went for a little makeover; I sported a different hairdo and got a clean shaven to get a uber cool look,” explains the actor.

The actor also reveals that he wanted to do the story as films on stand-up comics are rare. So there were more than just changes to the physical appearances.

“I underwent a one month workshops and got trained in trying and emulating stand-up comics’ body language, mannerisms, gait, the way they hold the mike, etc. We wanted to get everything right to make the film a typical stand-up comedy, yet keep the film very funny and entertaining,” explains Raj Tarun, adding that he even hired professional stand-up comics to be part of the film.

Loving the comedy

In fact, the Cinema Choopistha Maava actor confesses that the film also showcases how he grew into the mould of a stand-up comedian.

“When I heard the script I was instantly hooked to the plotline because I am a huge fan of stand-up comedians. I go to the shows in Hyderabad and even in Mumbai, and I watch them online. I follow them regularly and have an understanding on how they operate,” says the youngster.

That being said, the challenges in emulating them were real. “Standing like proper stand-up comedians, observing how they hold the mike, etc., were challenging. Moreover, I needed to be extremely careful with my comic timing. So all this made me learn to be a stand-up comedian,” shares the actor who continued going to workshops before wrapping up the remaining portions of the shooting.

Upcoming films in his kitty include a yet-untitled film under director Srinivas Gavireddy. The actor would also soon start working for the Telugu remake of Bollywood film, Dream Girl.

“It feels so good to be busy; perhaps I am in one of the best phases of my career,” says the actor, describing his journey as a ‘roller coaster ride’.
“I debuted with Uyyala Jampala in 2013, and I have seen ups and downs. The journey and its learning curve made me become a better individual. ”