I learnt the threads of filmmaking in Chennai: S S Rajamouli
Alia keen to do more films in the south
Team Rattham Ranam Rowthiram, including director Rajamouli, actors Ram Charan, Jr NTR, Alia Bhatt, Tamizh Kumaran and Danayya, were in Chennai recently to promote their pan Indian movie.
Acknowledging with pride that he learnt the threads of filmmaking in Chennai, Rajamouli said, “No matter how big we are, it is always scary to go back to the school where we studied. For me, Chennai is like a school which taught me cinema.”
Reacting to a query whether his RRR would supersede Baahubali in terms of critical reception and box-office collections, he said, “We put in every effort, our heart and soul, into creating a film. It is for the audience to decide whether it is big or not.”
The filmmaker is of the strong opinion that the script should determine the actors. “You ask if I would bring big stars like Rajini, Chiranjeevi, Mohanlal, Mammooty and Big B together on screen. Once a story is ready, I approach actors who will fit the characters. My story should elevate the above-mentioned stars. Otherwise, I will fail to be an honest filmmaker.”
On balancing screen space among the three leads, he said, “For me, it is how to balance
their characters - Alluri Sitarama Raju, Komaram Bheem and Sita – and not their star images. These images will bring audiences to the theatres, but my story will make audiences feel for the characters.”
Ram Charan said, "I am very happy to be here and to meet Tamil fans. Chennai is a second home to me. It is always challenging to work with
Rajamouli. But the journey has always been smooth. Since he travels with the story for a long time before coming to us, his narration is crisp and to the point. I am sure Tamil fans will celebrate the movie.”
Jr NTR started his speech in chaste Tamil. “Rajamouli is one of the very few filmmakers who tickles the hunger of an actor. It was a new experience working in RRR. The connection between Tamil and cinema is undeniable. Madhan Karki and Vijay taught me Tamil. I have spoken Tamil correctly though with a bit of difficulty. Any actor can act in any language. Vijay Sir's Master was a huge hit in Telugu.”
Draped in a Kancheevaram saree, her hair adorned with jasmine flowers, Alia Bhatt, who is making her south debut, presented a stunning, traditional look. “I have shot in Chennai for 2 States, where I essayed a Tamil girl. It’s a dream come true to be launched in the south through Rajamouli’s RRR. Both Tarak and Charan were very helpful on the sets, giving valid tips and lessons in Telugu and Tamil. I want to do more films in the south,” she said.