Aamir Khan introduced me to people in North India: Suriya
Ahead of the release of Kanguva, Suriya, Siva and Disha Patani recently appeared in the IMDb original series Ask Each Other Anything. Actor Suriya shared insights into his latest role in Kanguva, reflecting on the significance and depth he brings to this powerful character. Known for taking on challenging roles, Suriya discussed his approach to Kanguva and talked about inspirations in the film industry.
When asked about his initial reaction to the Kanguva script, Suriya explained, “I always want to do something that’s different from who I am. In most of my films, I take on those kinds of challenges. Be it Pithamagan, Ghajini and even Singam or Rolex. Kanguva is a leader, and it is important to be an inspiration, a role model. It doesn't happen naturally. Salim Khan- Javed Akhtar sir as writers, they are an inspiration. They have changed the film industry. Be it actors like Kamal Hassan sir, Rajinikanth sir, Amitabh Bachchan sir. These people are legends and inspirations—individuals who made others want to act and be part of this profession because of them. In Kanguva, he’s a role model for his community and clan, someone they trust, stand behind, and look up to with certain expectations. He must embody qualities that earn trust, from childhood through fatherhood, growing into a figure others can rely on and look up to as a saviour. It’s not just about being a warrior; Kanguva is a complete package.”
On his favourite Hindi remake of his films, Suriya said, “For people who are not aware of the remake, I would like to say again Kaakha Kaakha was Force here, Ghajini was of course just Ghajini in Hindi, and Singham of course was made, but with a lot of changes. Now Sarfira is the remake of Soorarai Pottru. I would actually go back and thank Aamir Khan sir because usually when a remade film is done, the original actor or the cast and the directors, they are not discussed in front of the media. But for the first time, I think, Aamir sir made sure that he spoke about the film and spoke about all the actors and the director. And, of course, I loved what he did in the Hindi version. Even before anybody could speak about me, I think he was solely responsible for people in North India, people who don't speak Tamil, to know about me. He repeatedly kept taking my name, and he introduced me to the rest of the audience. And still other films are very close to my heart. But I would say Ghajini was a wonderful experience, borders were raised, language (barrier) got raised and people got to know me.”
When asked if there’s a role from a favourite film he’d like to play, Suriya expressed his admiration for Bollywood classics: “I think everything started in 1975 when Sholay and Zanjeer started and the angry young man look started off with those films. The character played by Amitabh ji, a character named 'Vijay' in Zanjeer. I love it—it’s an iconic film, and I would love to again relive those moments. I wish I can do justice to it."
Responding to the same question, Patani said, “I love superhero movies, so I would say Wonder Woman.”