In a conversation with The Pioneer, Chiyaan Vikram discusses his much-awaited part in the historical epic Thangalaan. The renowned actor talks about working with filmmaker Pa Ranjith, preparing meticulously for his role as a tribal leader and his appreciation for other celebrities like Pawan Kalyan.
Actor Chiyaan Vikram shed light on his role in the much-anticipated film Thangalaan, offering a glimpse into the making of this epic period drama. Vikram discussed his collaboration with director Pa Ranjith, the extensive preparation for his role, and his admiration for fellow stars.
Vikram’s enthusiasm for Thangalaan was palpable as he explained what drew him to the project. Vikram began, “My admiration for Pa Ranjith played a significant role. I’ve always been a fan of his work and have long wanted to collaborate with him. When he presented the story of Thangalaan, I was instantly captivated. The narrative transcends traditional boundaries. It’s not confined to any particular language or region; it has a universal appeal. The film goes beyond just gold hunting to explore themes of freedom and the human spirit. Ranjith’s storytelling is similar to the immersive experience we had with Sarpatta Parambharai. I believe Thangalaan will resonate with audiences globally.”
The conversation then turned to the film’s unique aspects, particularly Vikram’s preparation for his role as a tribal leader. “Absolutely, the tribal leader in the film has a distinct and authentic appearance,” Vikram noted. “Initially, I wondered if the look might resemble something from KGF, but I quickly realised this character is unique. Preparing for the role involved extensive makeup sessions, which sometimes took several hours for application and removal. We shot under extreme conditions—both cold and heat—but passion for the role makes such challenges secondary. My focus was always on embodying the character fully, rather than seeking awards. While I value awards, the audience’s response is what truly matters.”
In terms of authenticity, Vikram revealed that he undertook significant research to portray the tribal leader effectively. “Yes, indeed,” he confirmed. “I delved into research on various tribes, including African ones, to better understand their appearance and culture. This research was crucial for capturing the essence of my character. We aimed to get as many scenes right in a single take as possible, even if it sometimes took 30 attempts. Despite the absence of subtitles, we’ve crafted a film that connects with audiences across all languages in India. I’m confident Thangalaan will surprise and engage viewers in theaters.”
The discussion also touched upon Vikram’s respect for Power Star Pawan Kalyan. “Certainly,” Vikram said with admiration. “I’ve always respected Pawan Kalyan for his commitment and dedication, both in cinema and politics. His decade-long involvement in politics and his current role as Deputy CM are truly commendable. It shows that someone can make a meaningful impact beyond their primary field of work. His journey offers inspiration to many, including those of us who contemplate entering politics.”
As the interview wrapped up, Vikram shared his hopes for the film’s audience. “I hope Thangalaan leaves audiences with a sense of wonder and excitement,” he said. “The film is crafted to offer an immersive experience, much like how we were immersed in the story during its making. I believe it will be a surprising and memorable experience for everyone who watches it.”
With the film’s grand release on the horizon, Vikram’s insights offer a tantalizing glimpse into what promises to be a captivating cinematic journey.
SUB STORY
Movie makers plan special screening for KGF star Yash
In a thrilling blend of cinema and real-life connections, the creators of the highly anticipated film Thangalaan are orchestrating a special screening event exclusively for Rocking Star Yash, known for his iconic role in the KGF franchise. This unique gesture underscores the film’s intriguing backstory, inspired by the historical Kolar Gold Fields (KGF), a location prominently featured in Yash’s blockbuster series. Set against the rich backdrop of Kolar’s gold mining heritage, Thangalaan explores the world familiar to Yash’s fans from the KGF saga. By inviting Yash to this exclusive preview, the filmmakers are not only honoring his significant contribution to bringing KGF’s story to the big screen but also celebrating the cultural and historical connections between the two films.
A source close to the production revealed, “The creators of Thangalaan are organising a special movie screening for KGF star Yash, given that the film’s backstory is based on the Kolar Gold Fields.” This event promises to be a poignant tribute to the shared history and cinematic depiction of Kolar Gold Fields, providing Yash with a firsthand look at how his legendary role has influenced and inspired new narratives in Indian cinema. Yash’s portrayal of Rocky Bhai, a defiant underdog who rises from the dusty streets of Kolar to become a formidable force in the gold mines, captivated millions. His character embodies resilience, power, and grit, striking a deep chord with audiences and setting a new benchmark for storytelling and character development in Indian cinema. The KGF franchise has not only elevated Yash’s stardom but also revolutionised cinematic storytelling, making it a landmark in Indian film history.
Thangalaan is poised to be another cinematic spectacle from the South, delving into the real story of the Kolar Gold Fields during the British exploitation era. The film continues the South Indian industry’s trend of presenting unique and compelling concepts. Directed by Pa. Ranjith and starring Chiyaan Vikram and Malavika Mohanan in prominent roles, Thangalaan is set for a worldwide release on August 15, 2024, in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam. The music for the film is composed by G.V. Prakash Kumar.
