Date: December 11, 2009
After making your Bollywood debut in an action thriller (Luck), you are now doing a Telugu fantasy flick.
My latest film is a fantasy flick co-starring Siddharth. The first schedule of the shooting is complete and I’m really excited. Not many fantasy flicks are made in India, so I think I am privileged to be part of one such film.
Not many fantasy flicks have worked commercially in Indian cinema. Why take such a risk?
As artists we don’t know which particular film will work and which won’t. There are no guarantees in the film industry. As an actor I don’t go by formula either. All I have to go by is script. And because I liked the script, I agreed.
So you go by script and not gut instinct?
If the script is not good, even your gut instinct won’t work (laughs).
After your debut with a big ticket Hindi film why choose a Telugu film as your second movie?
You know I think it’s a blessing to be an Indian actor. There are so many options for actors in India. Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood are just offshoots of a greater picture which is Indian cinema. I consider myself lucky to be part of Indian cinema. I made my debut in a Hindi film and had a great time. Now it’s time to try something else.
Your dad did not launch you. Do you regret that?
Let me start off by saying that my dad is the most wonderful father. He is always there if I ever need his help. I think it’s good that my dad did not launch me. Parents all over want their children to be able to stand on their feet and mine are no different. It’s an important lesson in our home and dad is very proud of my decision.
Has the industry taught you the art of handling controversies?
Growing up with parents like mine, you can’t help but be aware of what controversies are. I have come to understand that it’s all part and parcel of the job. People are curious and they want to know what’s happening in your life. Thankfully, I haven’t been embroiled in many controversies.
You composed music for the Telugu film Eenadu. Are you looking at composing for Hindi films as well?
I’m very picky as far as music is concerned. A producer can’t just dump the project in my lap and expect me to create music. If things fall in place and suit me, I’m open to composing for Hindi films.
What’s happening with your band Shruti Haasan and the Extramentals?
We are regrouping and will be on tour shortly, so I’m looking forward to that. The line-up is completely new and we are looking at coming up with a new sound. As musicians you have to reinvent yourself. The changes that happened in the past few years and my journey so far will be a huge influence on the kind of sound we’ll project. We are looking at collaborating with musicians from all over, but the core band will comprise musicians from Chennai.
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