Hyderabad: Kollywood actor Arya will be seen in a cameo in Venkatesh Daggubati's Saindhav. The actor speaks exclusively to Deccan Chronicle about his films and why he admires Allu Arjun and Venkatesh.
You are returning to Tollywood after a big gap? What's the reason?
It's been a long time since I did a direct Telugu film since all my films get dubbed into Telugu. Also, I did not get any challenging role, So I was waiting for the right opportunity.
How was it working with Venkatesh in 'Saindhav'?
Saindhav is a very special and milestone film for Venkatesh sir since it's his 75th film, especially Sailesh, who's a very informed and sought after director right now. My special appearance is definitely because I like Venkatesh and wanted to be part of this special film.
What are your expectations from Saindhav?
Saindahv is an emotional action film in which Venkatesh sir has done a great job. He has gone all out, was fully committed and ready to do anything which means he's very confident of the script. This will be a big film.
You have played both hero and a baddie. Which is more challenging— Playing an antagonist or protagonist?
Most of the time you get to play a protagonist. But to play an antagonist, a character with grey shades requires a different kind of preparation. You need to get out of your comfort zone to do something different. I like doing both.
You worked with Allu Arjun in 'Varudu'. Did you think he would become so successful?
When I was doing Varudu itself Allu Arjun was a big star. I knew he would become very big. I am so happy to see him grow into one of the best Pan Indian stars and win a national award for Pushpa. He's a very good friend of mine and I am very happy for him. This success did not come overnight. He has been working hard for so many years—be it action, dance or acting, he puts in a lot of effort into a project. He does not mindlessly do a project, that's what I liked about it. He works with such sincerity and honesty. That's what has taken him so far.
What is your take on OTT platforms? Is it a threat to movies?
OTT is not a threat to movies. In fact it has boosted the business, made the budget very big. It has given a huge opening for filmmakers to experiment and make bigger scale movies. It is a big plus and an eye opener for the movie industry.
You always look fit, what's your diet and exercise regimen?
My diet is normal, but I like to be fit. I am a foodie and eat everything. But when I have a special requirement for a film, I go on a strict diet for tha look. Otherwise I do a lot of workout and since I work out a lot, I have the luxury to eat whatever I want. I enjoy food and my desserts.
Many south actors are going to Bollywood. Any plans?
Bollywood is definitely an option. But right now because of the OTT or because the movies are pan India, any subject you do has greater reach. Stepping into Bollywood is a big chance indeed. But I don't want to do it just because I want to do a Hindi film. I rejected movies earlier as the script was not convincing. But hopefully if I get something interesting, I'll do it.
Tell us about your future projects
Right now I am doing a movie called Mr X, an action thriller being shot in several foreign locations. The film is directed by Mannu Anand, who did FIR. This is the first time I am doing a spy thriller. We are planning something like a Spy universe. If this chapter works out, hopefully we will have sequels. We are trying to build a character 'Mr X'. If not me, somebody can do this role in the future. After that, there is Sarpatta 2 with Ranjith sir which will start mid-year.
What's the one big difference between Tollywood and Kollywood?
The only big difference is the audience and market in Tollywood. The kind of theatres available in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, I don't think we have in Tamil Nadu. That's the kind of audience you have in Tollywood compared to Kollywood.
