Megastar Chiranjeevi’s one of the most awaited films Waltair Veerayya is all set to hit the theaters tomorrow. Prior to its release, the Godfather of Telugu cinema interacted with the Hyderabadi media, sharing some insights about the film, his inclination towards commercial films, and much more.
K. Ramya Sree
It takes a lot of skill, commitment, experience, and sacrifice to be a great actor. Adding to that is the enigmatic “it” factor that all great performers appear to have.Megastar Chiranjeevi has been in the industry for over four decades and has always made the audience feel the power of acting through his films. He has a passion for performing and entertaining. His Sankranti release, Waltair Veerayya, is billed to have all the elements that Chiranjeevi is known for— comedy, quirkiness, action, dance, drama, and much more.
Also starring Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja, Shruti Hassan, Bobby Simha, among others; this Bobby Kolli directorial, bankrolled by Mythri Movie Makers, will release in theatres tomorrow (January 13).
Beginning the interview with a big smile on his face and being very proud of how Telugu cinema is making a name for itself on a global level, which has earned RRR the prestigious Golden Globe Award, the actor spoke about the importance of having emotions in any script. The reason he gave his nod to Waltair Veerayya was because, “When I listen to any story, I especially see emotions in it. Fights and songs are merely added embellishments.
The audience is touched and connected by emotion. The story of Waltair Veerayya is full of emotions. That’s why, when I heard Bobby tell this story, I had immediately agreed, without giving it a second thought. I’m a big fan of content. Like me, Bobby values content. Because of this, everything turned out well for us both.”
Despite being cast in more than 150 films, what makes Chiranjeevi different from the rest is that he is still a director’s actor. He said, “I never look at the monitor. When I am shooting, I don’t move until the director says ‘OK’. I always wait for the director’s ‘OK’.”
When The Pioneer asked him whether he would prefer a commercial film that will make him money or an artistic film that will bring him more acclaim, the actor told us without hesitation that commercial films are his thing.
“I am more inclined towards commercial films. And that is what I have been doing and saying for the longest time. I might consider an artistic film if it is viable commercially as well, and if the story excites me. This is not because they make good money, but because the audience and my fans expect such films from me. Fans and the general public prefer to see me in commercial movies. I want to play a variety of roles.
The temptation to portray multiple characters led to the creation of movies like Shubhalekha, Swayamkrishi, and Mantri Gari Viyyankudu. But as time goes on, in this financially and commercially connected industry, I have prioritised providing what the audience wants from us rather than what we want, also keeping in mind the welfare of the producers and distributors.”
He further continued that Waltair Veerayya is also an attempt to give the audience what they wish for. “The audience will be thoroughly entertained. There will be an opportunity to recall the classic Chiranjeevi once more,” the Godfather of Telugu cinema added.
Moreover, we also asked him what he would like to be remembered for. Elated with this question, the actor said, “It always feels good to be a good actor. But it is satisfying when you are known as a good human and for the good deeds you do. People will remember you for the good work you have done. Acting is just a profession, but being a good human is all that matters.”
As a senior actor, there is much to draw inspiration from in megastar Chiranjeevi. But we wanted to know what this actor learns from young actors. To this, he said, “When these young actors come to me with good words, I always get inspired. Moreover, I am in awe of how these youngsters are taking care of themselves. It could be their diet, how they exercise, or how they present themselves. Moreover, I like to take fashion tips from them for me to stay updated with the current trends.
