There wasn’t an inch of empty space at the media interaction organised by the producers of Tenaliraman , which marks the return of popular comedy actor Vadivelu to the silver screen after a gap of over two years. “It didn’t feel as though I was away,” he said and added, “I got a chance to spend quality time with my family.”
Unwilling to discuss politics even with the elections around the corner, Vadivelu said that this time around he wants to entertain. “We have taken a lot of creative liberties while adapting the short stories of Thenali Raman. This would be a film that a brother can watch with his sister. Nobody will be embarrassed while watching this film. It is a clean comedy for the summer vacation,” he said. Addressing concerns raised by a few Telugu groups, the actor said that there is no mention of the Krishnadevaraya in the film. “I have only used the word ‘Manna’,” he said. “In this film, for instance, the king has 36 wives and 52 kids. I don’t think Krishnadevaraya had so many kids,” he joked. Why did he choose to play Thenali Raman? “I have always wanted to play the vikadakavi. It was one of those characters I had not played,” he said. Speaking of his decision to trust a 26-year-old director, Yuvaraj Dhayalan, with this film, the actor said that Dhayalan has a bright future. “He is well-read. Though it is a collaborative effort, it is he who should be credited for writing a juicy, intelligent plot.”
Was he surprised with the production house AGS Entertainment’s decision to back this film? “The heroines are usually warned that they won’t be able to work with big heroes if they work with me. I am sure a lot of them advised the producers too against working with me. But the production house chose to give me a second lease of life,” he said.What does the film have for Vadivelu fans? “I have donned five to six different looks. I even reduced my weight for a part,” he said. What does he think about the fact that all of his peers, Vivekh, Santhanam and Goundamani are acting in lead roles? “I am glad that Goundamani is making a comeback. If the audiences are entertained, it is only good for cinema.”
