PremiumShiva Kandukuri interview - Bhoothaddam Bhaskar Narayana is an interesting detective thriller with a mysterious backdrop | Exclusive
Shiva Kandukuri plays the main lead in Bhoothaddam Bhaskar Narayana which will be out on March 1, 2024.
Shiva Kandukuri
Last Updated: 02.19 PM, Feb 27, 2024
Bhoothaddam Bhaskar Narayana is actor Shiva Kandukuri's latest film which will hit the screens on March 1, 2024. The promos have caught on well and Shiva talks to OTplay about the film, his role, future projects, and his career plans. Here is the transcript.
Are you nervous Bhoothaddam Bhaskar is coming out with multiple other films?
Not much, as solo releases have become a dream these days. It is hard to get a solo slot for our films. But I and my team are confident in our product as it is unique and has been narrated in a very unique manner. Once you walk into the theatre, you will not be distracted much as the thrills and interesting storyline will keep you entertained.
Tell us more about the film?
Bhoothaddam Bhaskar Narayana is a detective thriller that has a mythology backdrop. It is based on the concept of Dishti Bomma (Scarecrow) and how it is linked to the hero's story is the basic crux of the film. The link to the mythology and the way it is explained thrillingly makes this detective thriller unique.
About your role in the film?
I play a character who always dreams of becoming a detective. Generally speaking, detectives are shown who have a sharp view and are quite strong. But in this film, director Purushottam has created my character in such a way that he has eyesight issues. He wears glasses and is quite vulnerable. How such a man comes-of-age and solves a mystery is my character.
How did you prepare for your role?
I completely believed in my director and followed his instructions. We had a twenty-day workshop and got to know more about my character. I have specific mannerisms in the film and look wise too, we gave my character that edge to look the part and it has been a very satisfying experience working on this film.
Comparisons with Agent Sai Srinivasa Athreya?
Not many detective thrillers have been made in Telugu cinema and Agent Sai Srinivasa Athreya's memory is fresh in the minds of the audience and that is the reason, they found similarities when the trailer came out. But both these films are different. Our film has a mythology backdrop and is a bit fictionalized with great thrills. Once you watch the film, you will have no complaints.
Who has been your inspiration in Telugu cinema?
I have been a huge fan of Chiranjeevi while growing up. His body of work, the way he dances, fights, and takes care of his family, he has been a huge inspiration. Even now, how he helps many in the industry, there is no one better than him in films.
Your dad and producer Raj Kandukuri's best advice?
My dad has always been with me from the beginning of my career. He is very clear with his vision and has always encouraged me by telling me to try doing things differently. Though the projects I pick might have a familiar premise, how I can present it differently and stand out, my dad always tells me.
What's your take on OTT? Are you doing any OTT projects?
OTT has become a boon for many actors. But the market has changed significantly in the last two years. You just cannot make a film and try to sell on OTT as the rules have changed. Coming to offers on OTT, I am working on something different with a popular OTT. The scripting is on for this web series which I can reveal only in the days to come.
Future projects?
My next film will go on floors on March 4, 2024, and will be directed by a debutante named Pramod. It is a very unique project based in the old city of Hyderabad and has a very engaging script. Apart from this, I have also played a key role in Sharwa35 which has been directed by Sriram Aditya. It is a very crucial role that will turn the story on its head.
Finally, how do you see your career shaping up in the next few years?
I know my strengths as an actor and am aware of what I can bring to the table. I am choosing scripts in a way that showcases me in a new avatar in every film. I do not mind playing character roles as well because character roles give an actor an edge in his career and scope to showcase what he is capable of. So, with some very interesting projects, I am raring to go ahead in my career.