Wednesday Aug 01 2007, Hyderabad

Prakash Raj

Prakash Raj has made his mark in almost all Indian films.He has acted in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi flicks.Specifically, his Telugu films like OKKADU, ATHADU and POKIRI.His successes seem to continue as he is acting in the latest Vikram starrer BHIMA and in the Hindi flick Zamaanat.A few words with the acclaimed artiste.

You seem to portray roles with a touch of realism.How do you prepare for this?

A similar question was posed to Sachin Tendulkar as to how he was able to face a ball whizzing at a 150 m.He replied that he would concentrate on the ball that coming towards him and that he could face the speeding ball only due to his extensive training.Similarly, an actor also has to be alert at all times and should train himself to do any kind of role.

Though you are good looking, do you feel bad that you play the role of the baddie in all your movies?

In any film, the hero is important.My role in any given film is also important.My fame has reached everywhere.In Dhanush’s next film THIRUVILAIYADAL, I am the bad guy.From the hero’s point of view, I am the villain.But from my perspective, he is the villain.This is how I view my roles.

What is your identity in the film world?

I am only interested in the present.However, in the future, I might take up take up writing the story or the dialogues for the movies.For me, my only concern is not the destination, but how I reach the destination.After I pass away, future generations should praise my achievements.Therefore, I plan each and every move with great care.

Filmi circles say that you are an expert in Money Management?
(Laughs) Is that so?

They also say that I invest my hard earned money in new films with so called risky stories.I earned both money and fame only through cinema.Therefore, I am very interested in its growth.My aim is not to become a millionaire and make my children inherit more wealth.

What is the use of keeping all your money under lock and key if it is going to be of no use to anyone? The person who has money alone is subject to worry and disease.I am not willing to be that kind of person.