In HIT 3, you’re seen playing a 45-year-old character. How did you come to terms with taking up a role older than your actual age?
Nani: Honestly, I think it’s refreshing. Most actors, including myself, often end up playing characters in their late 20s or early 30s regardless of our real age. But when I read the HIT 3 script, the idea of playing a 45-year-old felt different. I liked the shift in perspective, and it made the character more grounded and real.
Age stereotypes are strong in the film industry. Was there any insecurity in breaking away from that template?
Nani: I actually feel the opposite. I’m excited to turn 60. I believe that the older I get, the more layered and substantial roles will come my way. There’s a certain freedom in shedding that age-related insecurity. When you stop trying to look younger on screen, you unlock new kinds of stories and characters.
So, are you saying you're looking forward to roles like Amitabh Bachchan's 'Sarkar' in the future?
Nani: Absolutely! I’d love to play something like Sarkar. Those are the roles that challenge you, and more importantly, satisfy the actor in you. When I turn 60, I want to be part of stories that reflect maturity, power, and emotional depth. That’s where I see myself heading.
What do you think about the industry's resistance to let senior heroes play their age?
Nani: I think it’s changing. Look at Mammootty or Mohanlal – they’ve redefined what aging in cinema looks like. They’re doing commercial films and age-appropriate roles with equal ease. If our Telugu industry allows stars like Chiranjeevi garu or Balakrishna garu to explore these kinds of roles, audiences will welcome them with open arms.
Do you believe audiences are ready for their favorite stars to age on screen?
Nani: Definitely. Audiences have matured. They want meaningful cinema. They’ll always love the mass moments, but they also appreciate depth, emotion, and realism. When actors embrace their age on screen, they become more relatable and open the door to richer storytelling.
Laya, welcome back to Tollywood! What inspired you to choose Thammudu for your comeback film? Laya: I felt Thammudu was the perfect film for my return to cinema. The story is unique, especially the brother-sister sentiment, which is rarely seen in such a format. After I got to know the character of Jhansi Kiranmayee, I felt it was a great role that matched my comeback, a
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The censor was completed yesterday. How was the report? We received a very positive report. Everyone enjoyed the film thoroughly. It is a clean movie with full family fun. The board clearly mentioned that it is a film that children and families can watch together. Two big stars are coming together. What has been the response after the trailer release? Fans of both stars are enjoying it a lot. The response on social media has been fantastic. Chiranjeevi garu and Venkatesh garu worked together ver
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How do you feel about your journey from anchor to actor? Pradeep: I feel truly lucky. I got the right opportunities at the right time. From RJ to TV anchor to actor — each step helped me grow. The audience has supported me throughout, and I now feel a strong sense of responsibility. Why did you and your friends decide to produce this film? Pradeep: After my first film, I wanted to work on somethi
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How did the journey of Jatadhara begin? I always wanted to make a Telugu film because I deeply admire Telugu cinema and culture. Even though I’ve been producing Hindi films, Telugu movies have always inspired me. I watched Ram Charan’s Orange, and that sparked my passion for Telugu storytelling. Later, through Sudheer Babu, I met directors Venkat Kalyan and Abhishek Jaiswal. When they narrated the story of Jatadhara, I instantly loved it that’s how this journey started. What makes Jatadhara a un
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How did this project start after your debut film? After Chaavu Kaburu Challaga, I was set to do another film with Geetha Arts, but it was delayed. I narrated this story to producer Sahu Garapati, and he loved it. Later, Sai Sreenivas also listened and got excited. Since everyone connected with it, we started Kishkindhapuri. Why did you
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Varsha, tell us about your character in Thammudu. Varsha Bollamma: "I play Chitra, a character who plays a pivotal role in the hero Nithiin’s journey. She’s a strong, supportive character who unconditionally helps him, and their bond is central to the story. Chitra is a driving force in the film, and I absolutely enjoyed portraying her."
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Two back-to-back Pan-India hits with Hanuman and Mirai. How does it feel? It’s overwhelming. When success comes, all the hard work feels worth it. Director Karthik Ghattamaneni created an extraordinary film, which inspired me to give my best music. The entire team is thrilled with the audience response. What’s the best co
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What was Randeep Hooda like as a child? Randeep was naughty but lovable. His mother Asha Hooda believed that a bit of mischief keeps the brain active and sharp. How did Randeep’s schooling influence his love for sports? He studied at the Motilal Nehru School of Sports in Rai, where he developed a deep interest in horse riding and equestrian sports. When did he first express interest in acting?
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How did your journey with Kannappa begin? It started casually over lunch with Mohan Babu garu and Vishnu. After some discussion, Vishnu mentioned there wasn’t a substantial role for me, but Mohan Babu garu insisted, and soon enough, I was offered the role of Kumaradeva Sastry, the son of Mahadeva Sastry, played by Mohan Babu garu. What k
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Ranveer Singh made his debut playing wedding planner Bittoo Sharma in Band Baaja Baaraat (2010). Twelve years and 15 films later, he’s now gearing up for the release of his social-message comedy Jayeshbhai Jordaar. The actor talks about what’s changed along the way, how he’s learnt to strike a work-life balance and what the process of becoming kinder to himself
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