Actor Rag Mayur reflects on his experiences working on projects like Veeranjaneyulu Vihara Yatra, Keedaa Cola, and Cinema Bandi
In a conversation with Deccan Chronicle, writer-turned-actor Rag Mayur reflects on his experiences working on projects like Veeranjaneyulu Vihara Yatra, Keedaa Cola, and Cinema Bandi, and shares insights into his evolving career.
How did you get involved in this series? How has the experience been?
While shooting for Veeranjaneyulu Vihara Yatra, I received a call from the makers. I was pleasantly surprised to learn they were considering me for an iconic role in such a prestigious series. The audition process was quite rigorous—I had to go through three rounds, one of which lasted an entire day. Since it’s primarily a Mumbai-based production, the level of detailing was extensive. That’s the kind of meticulous casting process TVF follows, and I’m so glad I was able to crack it.
The shoot itself was a challenge. We filmed eight episodes in just 33 days—that’s about 4.5 hours of content in that short span. To put it into perspective, it’s like completing two full-length films in the same time frame. It was physically and mentally exhausting, but absolutely worth it.
It’s a remake of Panchayat, right? Were you still okay with that, considering it was also remade in Tamil?
Yes, absolutely—especially because the same makers were behind it. I was confident that the essence of the original would remain intact in the writing. In fact, I was sure they would refine any shortcomings from the original since this was another opportunity to tell the same story. With complete faith in the team, I wholeheartedly agreed.
The Tamil and Telugu versions were filmed just about a month apart, and the intent behind them was fresh. Panchayat, as a concept, is deeply rooted in Indian culture, and given the country’s diversity, it can be beautifully adapted to different regions with variations in humor, context, and cultural nuances. For example, a joke that works in Uttar Pradesh may not land the same way in Telangana, and vice versa. Comedy often loses its impact in translation. I wouldn’t mind seeing it remade in Kannada and Malayalam as well!
How different is this from the other commercial projects you’ve worked on?
This is by far my most subtle performance. While Maridesh Babu was loud and uneducated, Lancham is street-smart and manipulative, and Veeru is hot-headed, Shyam has none of these traits. He’s a typical average guy—an introvert who silently adjusts to everything while harbouring frustration inside. It’s a complete departure from what I’ve done so far, and maybe that’s why the appreciation is pouring in.
As an actor, what kind of content is closer to your heart—mainstream Telugu films or rural dramas that reflect reality?
I don’t make such distinctions. I’m open to anything and everything innovative while still being economically viable.
What else are you currently working on?
I’m currently filming Garvidi Lakshmi, where I play the male lead in a musical drama set entirely in Uttarandhra. Audiences will see me speaking in an authentic Srikakulam dialect. Then there’s Paradha, releasing soon, in which I’m paired with Anupama Parameshwaran. Additionally, I’m working on an untitled buddy comedy under GA2 Pictures.
Rag Mayur, your name has been making headlines ever since Keedaa Cola was released. How does it feel to receive such recognition?
It feels amazing! Playing Lancham in Keedaa Cola was a great experience, and I am grateful for the love and appreciation coming my way. While I have been part of a few films before this, Keedaa Cola has definitely brought me more recognition.
Before stepping into acting, you had a different career. Can you tell us about your journey?
Films have always been my passion. Even before acting, I used to write about movies. During the blogging era, I used to review films every Friday, and people appreciated my insights. One day, I got a call offering me a chance to write professionally, which led me to contribute to Chitramala. That platform gave me a lot of recognition as a writer. However, my main profession has always been software engineering.
How did you balance your passion for cinema with your professional and personal life?
My love for movies never faded. Growing up, my parents prioritized academics, and we didn’t even have cable TV at home. I only got to watch movies during summer vacations. But I found my way—participating in school cultural activities, exploring theater on weekends, and making short films. I also attended auditions whenever I could. In some way or another, cinema has always been part of my life.
What led you to transition from writing to acting?
I actually auditioned for Ee Nagaraniki Emaindhi but got rejected. However, my passion for cinema pushed me to explore acting seriously. That’s when Cinema Bandi came my way. The film received incredible critical acclaim, and even audiences from different language backgrounds watched and appreciated the dubbed version.
Did Cinema Bandi change your career?
Absolutely! Cinema Bandi was a turning point for me. It allowed me to prove my acting skills and brought me much-needed exposure. Though it wasn’t a commercial blockbuster, it opened doors for me to explore cinema and acting on a deeper level.
