Ravichandran is lovingly called 'Crazy Star' by his fans, but in reality is much more than a crazy star to Kannada cinema. He is a multitalented personality who has acted and directed many blockbusters and created new trends in the Kannada film industry.

Ravichandran has now taken up the job of directing a three-hour cultural programme (assigned by the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce) for the inauguration ceremony of the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Kannada film industry.

rediff.com caught up with the actor-director during the rehearsals of the show. Excerpts:

You have been made the Chairman of the cultural committee for the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Kannada film industry. Do you look at this as a big responsibility and a challenge in your professional life?

I am really overwhelmed by the fact that the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and the entire Kannada film industry has thought it fit to assign me this huge responsibility. I have been on this job for the past one month which needs lot of planning and creative designing.  

As you see I have just started the dance rehearsals. I am also overwhelmed by the response of all the artists to this concept of Naanu Naavaadhaaga (When I become We). We have rid ourselves of our egos and want to show our unity.

What are the programmes that you have designed for the three-day show?

We are planning a three-hour music and dance programme on the March 1,  which is the inaugural day of the three-day celebrations. There will be a few comic skits planned for the third day. I am sure with the co-operation of all the artists and technicians involved in the project, the three hour programme would shape up as a never-seen-before event.

What are the preparations you have made so far?

God-willing we want to make this programme something that could be remembered for years. We want to leave no stone unturned to realize our aspirations. I have a big team of artists, directors, music directors, choreographers, dancers and event planners to work for this programme.

The preparatory work for this big event has been going on for the past one month. We have already finalised the dance tunes of the show. Right now we are concentrating on the rehearsals of the dance shows of all the artists.

What has been the response from the artists?

It has been great. Veterans like Dr Vishnuvardhan and Anant Nag to young actors like Ganesh [Images], Vijaya Raghavendra, Darshan, Vijay, Adithya, Balaji and hundreds of other artists of the Kannada film industry, all are co-operating so well.

Vishnu [Images] sir told me he would be off for two days from February 27 because he has to go to Tirupati for his wedding anniversary. I think the support and the enthusiasm showed by every artist and technician of the industry has been unimaginable. What more can I ask for? Thankfully the KFCC headed by Jayamala has agreed to every suggestion I have made in this regard.