Nagarjuna's Dabangg

The actor says his latest film Ragada is an action entertainer along the lines of the Salman Khan blockbuster

December seems to be one of Nagarjuna Akkineni's favourite months for new releases. Keeping up the tradition, his latest film Ragada hit the theatres today. The actor took time off his hectic schedule to chat with Radhika Rajamani.

In what way is Ragada different from the other action entertainers you have done?

I haven't done an action-entertainer like Ragada in the last nine to 10 years. I would not say it's a different story; it's a regular film in the genre of Dabangg. The script is nothing new; the presentation is different. Ragada will be a good entertainer.

Is Ragada a hard-core action film?

It's not a hard-core action film. It's an action entertainer with comedy and songs. It is a holiday season film with joy and laughter for the family.

What can the audience look for in Ragada?

Entertainment and lots of energy; there won't be a dull moment.

Tell us about your character in the film.

I play a person from Rayalaseema, who comes to Hyderabad. He has to set things right and the two leading ladies are part of this drama, which has Kadapa as a backdrop.

Your character speaks in the Rayalaseema dialect. How challenging was that?

I didn't go into the actual dialect. We have used words that are used with a bit of the arrogance that is part of the dialect. For instance, the East Godavari dialect is polite. The Rayalaseema one is more arrogant. I had someone from Rayalaseema on the sets to get the accent right.

Ragada is an interesting title. How was this chosen?

It's used in Rayalaseema and Guntur areas. Whenever there is a disturbance people ask 'enti ragada (what is this ragada)' or when kids are making too much noise, they are told 'ragada aapandi (stop the ragada).' So ragada is used in different contexts; it doesn't have an exact meaning. Ragada sounded catchy and apt for the film.

You have an uncanny ability of spotting talent. What did you see in director Veeru Potla?

He's a very good script and dialogue writer. I wanted to do a fast-paced film like this. Also, I had seen Bindaas (directed by Potla), and I felt he was right for the film.

How was it working with Anushka Shetty and Priyamani, especially the latter, since you were acting with her for the first time?

Both are mature actresses and thorough professionals. Priyamani is a talented girl. She'll shine in the film. Anushka is getting better with every film. 

You have worked with the film's producer, Siva Prasad Reddy of Kamakshi Kala Movies, on quite a few films. How has the experience been?

He is more of a friend. I've been working with him for 22 years and known him longer. He's passionate about films and knows only films. Shooting with his banner is nice; it's just like my home production.

Ragada is releasing before Gaganam. Why was Gaganam delayed?

It is because they want the Tamil and Telugu release together. In Tamil they couldn't release because of Robot and now Ragada in Telugu is releasing. So, they have to get it right for both the languages.

Rajanna is one of your forthcoming films. Are you doing any other films?

I am also doing a film to be produced by Venkat of RR Moviemakers and directed by Srinivas Reddy. It may go on the floors in March. The shoot has commenced for Rajanna. It's a nice script, a powerful drama set in 1945 in the Nizam's State.

Rajamouli is choreographing the action sequences and Rama Rajamouli is doing the styling. Right now the shoot has come to a halt because of the strike (Producers in Tollywood, the Telugu film industry, and film employees have stopped shooting over various demands.)

Are you happy with your son Chaitanya's Ye Maaya Chesaave?

Yes. I was reminded of my Gitanjali. Nobody expected YMC to be a hit. It was a feel good film with good music by A R Rahman.

How involved are you with Chaitanya's career?

Not much. I give advice when he asks for it or when he has doubts.

You've crossed 50. How do you keep yourself fit?

Anybody can keep themselves fit and fine by maintaining healthy habits and discipline.

Is it possible to have a film with your father Akkineni Nageshwara Rao, Chaitanya and you?

We are planning to do a film. A couple of scripts are being worked on. We will wait and see which one will work out. We are not in a hurry. We will wait for the right one.