Sai Dharam Tej talks about his resilient journey post his accident and aspiring shift in film choices for 2024

Sai Dharam Tej had a fruitful 2023, as his two films, Virpupaksha and BRO, fared decently at the box office. Tej was out of action in 2022 after a life-threatening bike accident in Hyderabad. He lost his voice, could not move, and went through hell.

Reflecting on the success of his 2023 film 'Virupaksha,' Sai Dharam Tej reveals to us that the true sweetness came not from the film's success but from the period following his accident. "Waking up from a coma, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of supportive messages from all quarters," says Tej.

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He adds, "My perspective on life, highlighting its ability to push you down and then lift you back up, gave me tough life lessons as to how life tests you time and again. I value life more than before and do not take anything for granted anymore."

Recognising the evolving audience expectations in the post-lockdown era, Sai Dharam Tej acknowledged a shift towards a preference for quality over quantity in films. He says, "The lockdown experience, which exposed the audience to world cinema, has heightened viewers, leading them to seek content that resonates with them on a more profound level."

In response to questions about taking up bold scripts like 'Animal', Sai Dharam Tej says that in the days to come he will do at least a few films that will challenge him as an actor. Sai Tej is yet to announce his next and has taken some time off to get back in shape and start afresh with some content-rich films.

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Finally, Tej says he has learned a lot from his uncle Pawan Kalyan: to believe in what we do and not look back on mistakes. "His support and the things I learned from him during the shoot of BRO were a major help for me in my life," says Tej, as he signs off.

In 2024, Tej says he will be a part of some meaningful films, as he now has more knowledge about content and the changing tastes of the audience and market. He will next be seen in Sampath Nandi's action drama that has gone on floors. Well, we need to see how he handles his career from now on.

Also Read: Virupaksha Review: The Sai Dharam Tej, Samyukhta Menon starrer is a well made spooky thriller