Rana Daggubati is truly going places — post the blockbuster Baahubali, he’s doing a cameo in a Tamil movie, a crucial role in a Bollywood project, and awaiting the release of Nene Raju Nene Mantri. Ask him about his fascination for supporting roles, and he says, “It isn’t a strategy. What fascinates me is a story in itself. I always want to be part of good cinema. Before showbiz, I was into VFX and other businesses, but it wasn’t giving me anything. I took a break and then debuted with Leader. Ever since, I have been looking for versatility, and the learning curve is phenomenal!”
Does that mean he’s hesitant to take on a lead role and shoulder a film himself? Rana answers with a smile, “I want to be associated with unique films. I only believe in the potentiality of script. Ghazi was widely appreciated because of that uniqueness.”
The Baahubali superstar recently also ventured into a new business sector — talent management. “I am operating it under my home production,” he says, adding, “I was impressed with the concept of the ‘alternative format’ of shaping an actor’s career, something a typical manager doesn’t do. We’re game to encourage new script writers, filmmakers, et al.”
Did rubbing shoulders with Karan Johar influence his thought process? “We bond well and have many things in common. But there’s no influence of him. When I went to Mumbai, I realised that when you venture into other industries, you need to show them something they have never seen — like Baahubali. He believed in it.”
What’s his take on brother Abhiram’s film debut? “He has worked for a few films, but, it will be his call and interest” he says.
Rana possesses a charming combination of heart, head and humility, not to mention amazing good looks! However in Nene Raju Nene Mantri, directed by Teja, he will be seen in a very rustic avatar.
“Teja has been around for more than 25 years and is an amazing writer. When he narrated the plotline, I instantly connected to it,” Rana says.
Ask the actor why his dad, Suresh Babu, didn’t bankroll any of his earlier films and Rana promptly responds, “We have wanted to make a film since long but were unable to lock a script. He asks several logical questions while listening to a script, and that’s something I need to learn from him to fine-tune a script. He and my uncle (Venkatesh) have a similar approach and thought process towards films, which is why, in fact, they made several films together.”
