Sai Kiran P Susheela’s grandson makes a foray into acting
Face Of Tomorrow

The new millennium is bringing a sea change in the Telugu film industry. On the one side, there is a dramatic revival of low budget films, some of which have grossed more than star-studded films in recent months. On the other, there is an upsurge of newcomers, both directors and lead stars. A welcome change, indeed. Chitram and Bachelors are just two examples. And now media baron Ramoji Rao is introducing three more youngsters - Sai Kiran, Tarun and Richa in a teenage romance - Nuvve Kaavali directed by Vijaya Bhaskar. Among the promising lot, Sai Kiran, the six-footer, is already making waves in the industry as he has signed a Tamil film even before the release of his maiden film. He will also be featuring in films by Krishna Vamsi, EVV Satyanarayana, and Sana Yadireddy. Excerpts from an interview with the star of tomorrow:

Your parents, Ramakrishna and Jyothi, are well-known singers. So, how is it that you opted for a career in acting and not singing?
I am also reasonably a good singer like my sister. But it was always my dream to become a hero. Seeing my interest, my grandmother, the veteran singer P Susheela, used to address me as ‘hero sir’ even when I was a kid. that was real encouragement for me. In fact, I wanted to discontinue my education after my twelfth standard but my father insisted that I obtain a degree. So, after a degree in Hotel Management from Neeraj College, Hyderabad, here I am.

Why did you opt for a hotel management course which has no relevance to your career as an actor?
Who said so? Hotel management course has taught me communication skills. It has also taught me to have patience and perseverance, which are very essential qualities in the field of acting. Moreover, if I ever wish to enter into business at a later date, the course will come in handy.

How did you bag the plum offer in Nuvve Kaavali?
I must thank director Krishna Vamsi for it. When director Vijaya Bhaskar was on the lookout for a new hero, he suggested my name. Executive producer Ravi Kishore and Vijaya Bhaskar saw my photographs and arranged for a screen test. They found that I was suitable for the role and selected me along with Tarun, as the two leading heroes in the film.

Have you undergone any training in acting?
I learnt western dance and cinematic fights for four years. Besides that, I took training in dialogue diction from veteran actor Kakarala.

What kind of experiences did you have during the shooting of the film?
I’ve been waiting for four years to don the proverbial grease paint. I was on cloud nine the day Vijaya Bhaskar and Ravi Kishore told me to report for the shoot. Vijaya Bhaskar is a master in extracting the best from debutantes and under his guidance, I am learning the nuances of acting. I am playing a singer in the film, the role my dad played in real life.

Who are your role models?
The two legends of Telugu cinema - NT Rama Rao and SV Ranga Rao. In romantic roles, I am fond of A Nageswara Rao, too. I would like to emulate them.

We hear you’ve signed a Tamil film as well?
That’s right. It is a comedy directed by VC Guhanathan. The shoot starts in September. In this film, too, I essay the role of a singer.

Any other Telugu offers?
I am grateful to directors EVV Satyanarayana, Krishna Vamsi and Sana Yadireddy, who have promised me assignments in their future projects.

What are your hobbies?
Martial arts and kick boxing. I like to browse the web sites. I am also fond of singing and dancing.

Tell us something about the music album you are doing.
It is an album in Hindi for T-Series. I am acting in the album and when it is released, I’ll have exposure all over. That’s what any actor aspires. I am thankful to all those who made my dream come true.

Naresh