There is a good actor in me: Taraka Ratna

Saturday, April 23, 2016 - 23:45

Nandamuri Tarak Ratna was almost forgotten until the trailer of 'Raja Cheyyi Vesthe' was released weeks ago. Seen in this film as a self-styled villain, Tarak Ratna is quite confident that the audience will love it. In this interview, he talks about his equations with Nara Rohit and other actors from his family, starting a production house, doing a role in 'Gautamiputra Satakarni', and so on...

How did 'Raja Cheyyi Vesthe' come your way? Did you waver when it was offered?

I initially dilly-dallied about doing this film after director Pradeep Chelukuri gave a narration. I liked the villain because the character is very powerful and well-written. But dilemma was there. I was convinced when Sai Korrapati garu said that I should play this role. Also, my wife advised me to do the role.  

With Nara Rohit and you playing hero and villain, there is curiosity around the film. How do you see it?

Yes, since we are related, there is good hype about 'Raja Cheyyi Vesthe'. I am not playing a routine type of villain. Just as every individual is good and bad at the same time, this villain has both virtues and vices. The audience will appreciate this character because he is not a humorous or ruthless villain who eliminates his rivals just like that.

What are your equations with Nara Rohit and the Nandamuri actors?

He has become closer now. We keep visiting each other more often now. He works tirelessly. For this film, he would work without a break for days on end. As for Babai, I take suggestions from him, though my decision depends on my convictions. Kalyan Ram, NTR and I meet whenever we find time. Just because we don't move around in public, it doesn't mean that we are not getting along well.  

How was it playing a negative role after Amaravathi for which you won a Nandi Award?

I did that film with the faith that I would win Nandi. Ravi Babu garu told me that it will fetch me an award. The entire credit goes to my director. Coming to 'Raja Cheyyi Vesthe', it's lot different compared to 'Amaravathi'.The film shows how a filmi villain should be. He is an orphan. He does what he likes right from childhood.  But what he believes to be right, is not felt to be so by others in his life. Despite that, he is stubborn and sticks to his guns.

Were you ever let down by failures?

I have always believed in hard work as well as time. Without working hard, I wouldn't have been in this position. It's because there is a good actor in me that I am still getting roles.  

Do you have any regrets about your choices?

I couldn't select my scripts properly in the early stages of my career. I did a mistake by doing films quite fast. My strategy now is to go slow by selecting proper scripts. I have no doubt that 'Raja Cheyyi Vesthe' will take me to the next level.  

Are you planning to start a production house?

I should settle down as an actor first. I will think of debuting as a director after some years.  

Have you been approached to do an important role in Balakrishna's 100th film?

There are reports that I am acting in 'Gautamiputra Satakarni'. All that I can say at this point of time is that, nothing is finalized as yet. I am ready to even do a trivial role in Babai's film.

What are your upcoming projects?

'Evaru' will be my next film. It's a thriller.