Chiranjeevi Sarja’s career started off with remakes – Vayuputra, Kempegowda, Whistle, Ajith , Aake , and, now Samhara . Directed by Guru Deshpande – Samhara — is a remake of the Tamil film Adhe Kangal .
Popularly known as Chiru, the nephew of actor Arjun Sarja seems to have carved a niche for himself in the Kannada film industry. He won the Innovative Film Award for the Best Debut male actor for his first film Vayuputra .
The young actor has many things going for him—his films have done well at the box office, he has some more interesting films in his kitty and on the personal front the actor is looking forward to tying the knot with his long-time girlfriend Meghana Raj.
The young actor talks to Metroplus about Samhara , and other work from his oeuvre .
Excerpts:
How did Samhara come to be?
I play a visually impaired chef. But, I am visually impaired only in 20% of the film; I get my vision back. When the director made the script, it was a normal story with no fights at all. I suggested we do a few fight scenes, especially with a visually impaired man involved in it. It was also a challenge for me. The fight sequence is choreographed using sound and smell, which I believe will win the audience’s attention.
Did you take any special training to act as a chef?
No I did not go to any classes. But I like to cook when I am home. I cook for myself. Probably, that helped me act as a chef.
How was it working with Guru Deshpande?
It was a great experience. Earlier we had worked together for Rudra Tandava . We share a great rapport and that film clicked for the both of us. So we were looking for a new script to work together again and Samhara happened.
Most of your films have been remakes...
Yes, it is true. But the decision is not mine. A lot of people – from producers to directors – are involved in choosing a story and script. They believe I can pull off these characters and cast me in the films.
Are there disadvantages when you work in remakes? Won’t you be compared to the original?
There are pros and cons. The disadvantage is people will have already seen the film and we need to better that original performance.
Advantages of being related to Arjun Sarja...
It has always been good for me. Sometimes, I am compared to him in looks and acting, which I find complementary. Expectations are high because he has set high standards. I felt that pressure when I first came into the industry. But now, I believe people trust in my strength as a performer.
Will you also foray into Tamil and Telugu films like your uncle?
I don’t mind exploring new languages.
Tell us about Seizer .
I am acting with Ravichandran and Prakash Raj in Seizer. I play a man who seizes cars from people who don’t pay their car loans. The role has negative shades. I enjoy playing negative characters.
Future projects?
I have Amma I love you , with Chaitanya and Dwarakesh Chitra. Then there is Raja Martanda . Others are still in the ‘talk stage’.
Any films with Meghana?
Nothing yet. If there is a strong script, I would love to work with her.
Published - January 17, 2018 05:21 pm IST
