Maddy talks movies, politics

R. Madhavan, or Maddy as he is popularly known, is thrilled to be stepping into the digital medium, making his debut with Breathe.

The actor, who has carved a niche for himself in both Bollywood and the South industries, confesses that it’s a huge deal that he’s survived so long playing the lead role. “My biggest award in life is that after 20 years, I’m still playing main lead, in the kind of roles that I want to do. I’m known as Maddy paji, Maddy bhai, Maddy bhaijaan… so I’m glad,” he said.

Breathe is the first trilingual web series, set to release in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. It’ll be centred around a medical thriller. “It’s a new medium, where you can make money. But you need to deliver good and high level content,” said Madhavan, of the digital stream. “The level has to be good, like it is in the West. In terms of films, if the content isn’t good, it will not do well, irrespective of all promotions.”

On being quizzed about Southern superstars entering politics, Madhavan smiled and said, “Whatever is good for the state and the country is most welcome. If your intention is to serve the people, then it’s all good. In US, Barack Obama became the president at 42. So, if there are young people coming in, and they have good guidance, and if the state is also good, it’s all right. I’m happy they’ve taken this step.”

About his own political ambitions, Madhavan added, “I’m not politically inclined. I’m an actor, and it’s my job. I will continue to do good in whatever form I can. I don’t need endorsement to do good for the society, and I’m clear about that.”

I’m not politically inclined. I’m an actor, and it’s my job. I will continue to do good in whatever form I can. R. MADHAVAN, ACTOR