Nara Rohit returns to the big screen with Bhairavam, alongside Manchu Manoj and Bellamkonda Sai Srinivas. Ahead of the release, he shares insights on his comeback, bond with co-stars, and why fans can expect more films from him regularly going forward
Suresh Kavirayani
sureshkavirayani@gmail.com
Nara Rohit is making a strong comeback with the action-packed film Bhairavam, sharing screen space with Manchu Manoj and Bellamkonda Sai Srinivas. Directed by Vijay Kanakamedala, the film marks a significant return for Rohit after a long break. In a candid chat, the actor opens up about what drew him to the project, his camaraderie with co-stars, the evolution of the story from Tamil to Telugu, and why audiences can now expect to see him on screen more often.
Recalling how he came on board the film, Rohit shares, “Bellamkonda Suresh called me and asked me to watch the Tamil film Garudan. I believed his judgment, so he asked me to check out Sasikumar’s character in that film. I watched it, liked it, and then agreed to do it.”
Rohit said the story is unique and they have done justice to it. “In Tamil, it was a rustic village drama, but for the Telugu version, we changed a lot to suit Telugu nativity,” he explained. Sharing the screen with Manchu Manoj and Bellamkonda Srinivas also meant deepening personal relationships. “I have known Manoj since childhood, and with this film, our bond has grown stronger. Manoj was there with me when something happened in my family; he was with me throughout that time,” said Rohit.
He also recalled his long-standing connection with Bellamkonda Srinivas. “I’ve known Bellamkonda since 2010. I was actually supposed to do a film for Bellamkonda Suresh after my debut film Banam, but it didn’t materialize. I know their family well,” he added, noting that this film has brought them even closer.
Addressing the gap in his filmography, Rohit candidly shared, “Actually, I wanted to take a short break, but it became lengthy. From now onwards, I am coming regularly. My next film Sundarakanda is almost done and will be ready by July. I am also starting another film in August.”
He emphasized that while he has done action films before, Bhairavam is different. “This is a complete commercial film and gives me a new experience. There are a lot of action scenes, which I’m doing after a long time. Just before the interval, there’s a scene involving all three of us—that will definitely be one of the film’s highlights. I’m eagerly waiting for the audience’s response,” he said.
On the ensemble cast, he noted, “Every character, including the female leads, gets prominence. This is Vetrimaaran’s story, so it’s an intense one, and everyone is important. After watching the Telugu version, you’ll feel like it’s a straight Telugu film.”
Rohit also praised director Vijay Kanakamedala’s clarity of vision. “He knows exactly what he wants. I think he’s going to become a big commercial director after this film,” he said. Creating a film with three leading actors isn’t easy, but Rohit credited the producer. “It’s possible only because of Radha Mohan,” he said, adding that he hasn’t watched the final cut yet because he wants to experience it with the audience on release day.
On producing films, Rohit affirmed, “Yes, I would like to produce films when I come across a good story. I’m producing Sundarakanda with my cousins.”
There was once talk of a sequel to his cult film Appatlo Okadundevadu. Rohit confirmed this: “Yes, we wanted to do a sequel and even worked on it, but for some reason, it didn’t materialize. I’ll see if it works in the coming days.”
Asked about his favorite genre, he laughed and said, “Except horror, I like all genres. Why be scared while giving money? That’s why I don’t like horror.”
Veteran actress Jayasudha plays an important role in the film. “She is a legendary actress and I am too small to talk about her. She plays a grandmother in the film, and I’m very happy to be working with her after a long time. She’s one of the finest actresses we have,” said Rohit.
He also had words of appreciation for music director Sricharan Pakala. “His background music is another highlight of the film. He also proved that he can produce good songs with this one,” said Rohit.
