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'I don't look at actors as competitors'
Sumanth Ashwin is the new kid on the block in Telugu cinema. The son of well-known producer M S Raju, he makes his acting debut with Tuneega Tuneega, directed by his father and produced by Maganti Ramji. The film releases today.
This will be the maiden film of the heroine, Rhea Chakraborthy, too.
Sumanth Ashwin holds forth on Tuneega Tuneega in this interview.
You belong to a film family. How does it feel to be making your debut in the industry?
There are advantages and disadvantages. The good thing is that I've been to shoots since I was a kid. So I know the technicalities.
The pressure will be there. People expect more from you as you are somebody's son.
You were supposed to debut a few years back. Why the delay?
I was supposed to start four or five years ago. I had to choose certain kind of scripts. I looked too boyish then.
We wanted to wait for another three-four years. Then dad came with this script of Tuneega Tuneega and all of us liked it.
This was apt for my debut and age and I was ready too. I could do justice to it.
'The film is a complete family entertainer'
How was the title Tuneega Tuneega chosen?
Tuneega Tuneega was a popular song in one of my dad's films Manasantha Nuvve. It was chosen as it was apt since it is the story of a boy and girl.
What was it like being directed by your father?
I know his working style. However, I was initially scared of him. On the first day I thought, what if I am not good enough?
But then my dad made me comfortable and we had a good rapport. If I had any doubts or didn't like something I would clarify.
What's the film about?
It's a complete family entertainer. It's not just targeted at a young audience. Everyone can come and enjoy it.
It's a story of a boy and girl surrounded by lots of characters.
Can you talk about your role in the film?
My role in the film is that of a chef. I don't like being a waiter, but there are reasons why I have to dress up as one. My character likes playing pranks on his dad. He's a sincere guy and a lover.
'The songs and dances are not separate and go with the story'
Does this film showcase all that you can do – action, romance, dance etc?
There are no separate fights. There are some thrilling moments. The songs and dances are not separate and go with the story.
How was it acting with your co-star Rhea, also a debutante?
We had a good rapport right from the first photo session.
She is a VJ. So she has had exposure. It was very comfortable working with her. She is a thorough professional and has done justice (to the role).
Where is the film shot?
Half the film was shot in Wai in Maharashtra. That backdrop will be new and fresh. We spent about 45-50 days in Wai. The rest of the film was shot in Hyderabad.
'I wanted to enter films but not as an artiste'
You've stepped into an industry where there are many actors. How do you view the competition?
I don't look at actors as competitors. They are all seniors. I learn a thing or two from their films. I analyse, see what they have done and take the positive points.
What was your dad's advice to you?
Stay grounded, be simple, take steps carefully, keep improving and updating yourself. Become better with every film.
Did you want to act since you were a child?
I wanted to enter films but not as an artiste. I used to observe the technicians so I thought maybe I would become a director.
About five-six years ago I changed my decision. I went to the sets one day and some pictures of mine were clicked and a big director told my dad that he liked them. Dad told me that, and from then on I thought of becoming an actor.
'I am waiting for the audience reaction'
Did you train to be an actor?
I don't believe in training in acting schools. It's good for letting go of one's inhibitions. I did take a short stint at Kishore Namit Kapoor's school in Mumbai, more to let go of inhibitions. The stint helped me. Any experience helps.
Are you nervous about the release of the film?
Slightly. I was confident when I saw the rushes. I am waiting for the audience reaction.
Dil Raju is the presenter of the film and my father M S Raju is the director. So there are lots of expectations. If the film is good it will stand.