Venkatesh Interview on Sankranthiki Vasthunam: 'Humor is driven by my actions and expressions, audiences will find hilarious'

Sankranthiki Vasthunam is Venkatesh's new film, all set to hit screens on January 14, 2025. On this occasion, Venkatesh speaks to us about doing a comedy film after a long gap, working with the likes of Anil Ravipudi, turning singer, and his future projects. Here is the transcript:

Venkatesh interview about Sankranthiki Vasthunam

Your last Sankranthi release, Saindhav, was a massive flop. What's your take?

I never take hits or flops seriously. I work very hard on every film of mine. If it becomes a hit, I enjoy the success; if it fails, I move on to the next project. With Saindhav, I did the same. I tried action after a long gap, but the audience didn’t connect with the film. I moved on quickly from its failure.

You’ve never promoted your films this aggressively. What’s so special about Sankranthiki Vasthunam?

The moment I heard the songs, they connected with me instantly. Also, the film has turned out quite well, and it’s in my comfort zone—entertaining and fun-filled. A lot of credit for the promotional spree goes to my director, Anil Ravipudi, who is a pro and comes up with crazy ideas all the time. I’m loving every aspect of the promotions.

What attracted you to Sankranthiki Vasthunam?

I’ve done many comedy capers in my career, but Sankranthiki Vasthunam is different. The genre and story are unique. A comedy caper with a wife and ex-wife as the main leads has never been explored before. The moment Anil narrated this angle, I immediately agreed. I thoroughly enjoyed shooting for the film.

Tell us more about your role.

I play an ex-cop who is recalled to nab a man who kidnaps a state bigwig. How my ex-girlfriend and wife join me in my hunt to catch the criminal is the core of the story. During the investigation, I get entangled between my wife and ex, and this creates hilarious situations. The crime and comedy elements are beautifully interwoven, and I believe audiences will love it.

How was it working with Anil Ravipudi?

This is my third film with Anil Ravipudi, and he’s a master at making comedy capers. As a fan of mine, Anil understands my strengths as an actor and always presents me with cool, unique avatars. Once again, he’s given me a memorable character. The entire humor is driven by my actions and expressions, which audiences will find hilarious.

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How was the experience working with Meenakshi Chaudhary and Aishwarya Rajesh?

They were instrumental in making the film what it is. Both are easygoing and don’t have any airs. Our chemistry in the film is solid, and the banter we share is one of the film’s biggest highlights.

What made you sing for Sankranthiki Vasthunam?

I loved the first two songs, and when I found out that the third song had lyrics predominantly in English, I thought my voice would add a unique touch. So, we recorded it. The song has gone viral, and I’ve enjoyed performing it at all the promotional events.

Do you think audiences love you more in comedy films?

In a way, yes. While audiences have appreciated my serious and emotionally driven films, they adore me in comedy roles. Sankranthiki Vasthunam is made for my fans and family audiences who love me in such crazy, fun roles. It’s a clean comedy, narrated hilariously.

Future projects?

Rana Naidu with Netflix is ready, and I’ve finished dubbing for it. It’s set to release in March 2025 and will be even more explosive than the first season. I’m also in talks with the makers of Pushpa, Naga Vamsi, and a few Hindi banners. I’ve finalized a project and will reveal it soon.

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