Anand Deverakonda flexes new muscles

After the success of Baby, Anand Deverakonda gears up for Gam Gam Ganesha, directed by Uday Shetty. Anand’s enthusiasm stems from the film’s unique character design and storyline. “I am known for my boy next door and realistic films, but what I loved about Gam Gam Ganesha is its refreshing storyline and my unique character design. I play a youngster who thinks he is a hero but he isn’t. My character’s impulsiveness and the unpredictable side was what hooked me,” says Anand.

The film boasts multiple layered characters and intriguing plot twists that promise to captivate audiences. “There are multiple layered characters in the film and the twists and turns in the plot is what makes the audience glued to the screens,” he adds.

Anand underwent a transformation for the role, including rigorous six-pack training. “It was the director’s idea to get six-pack abs, and I almost took a year to get my abs because I want to get in naturally. The three months have been very draining as I had to follow a strict diet regimen, cut down on carbs, increase protein intake and follow the water retention process,” he reveals.

Reflecting on his five-year journey in the industry, Anand emphasises his love for the craft of acting over fame and fortune. “I enjoyed being on sets and experiencing the filmmaking; I liked to exhibit the emotions of the characters I imbibed. In the process of prepping up, I had realised every new role I explored brings out a new side of me,” he describes, stating that the acting profession itself has been a self-exploration.

Despite constant comparisons to his brother Vijay Deverakonda, Anand remains focused on carving his own path in cinema. “Comparisons do arise but we complement and support each other well. We share our honest feedback about films and that’s what makes us bond strongly. We don’t try to force things but we enjoy the freedom,” says Anand signing off.