Maid for Machine

There could have been many draws to do Robot — the film’s concept,the guaranteed success of Rajinikanth’s films and the big cast. What worked for you?

First,it was an opportunity to work with Shankar sir (director) again,after Jeans. There were a lot of beautiful ideas that we could have worked on,but my schedule didn’t permit it. When the opportunity came in the form of Robot,a film that is technically ahead of its time,I was more than happy.

What is it about Shankar that you wanted to work with him again?

The thing that I really like about Shankar is that he never forgets the common man,common man’s fantasy and what would be entertaining for the common man. He brings all this into his films.

Films starring Rajinikanth often focus on him. Were you not apprehensive?

When I work on a film,I am not myopic about my role. The film in totality matters. After Devdas,I have been on a trip wherein I want to experience movies.

Some people found the pairing unusual.

Rajni Sir did have a cute way of silencing a few people who had their doubts about our pairing. He did so at the music launch by making fun of himself. Honestly,as far as working with him is concerned,it was a pleasure and honour. You should be on the sets to see the level of commitment he transpires all around. He is a superstar and I am not talking about his stand in the industry. He is actually called ‘superstar’ on the sets.

Would you be comfortable having a real robot around you 24X7 to make your daily chores easier?

Interesting! You know,we have always been subjected to a particular imagery and stereotypical form,like the ones shown to us by the toy stores and all,but I’m very happy with myself.

Did you find it surreal to treat a robot as a character or a real actor?

With Jeans,Shankar taught me about multiple imaging. I got enriched with a very important aspect of filmmaking very early. But even after knowing a lot about high-end mechanism,the experience with Robot was completely new. There’s so much more that can amaze you as an actor.

It can be equally surreal working with Rajinikanth. Did that happen too?

I have seen how enthralled his audiences are with what he puts out. And to see him do it everyday and how simply he would do it was a sight. Rajini sir,with his kind of experience,to come forth on the sets with such humility would surprise us with his shots. And I did not learn to flip sunglasses and cigarettes Rajni-style,but I got to see him do it “live”,and it was a jaw-dropping experience.

How comfortable are you with languages of the South?

I’m comfortable in Tamil. But,I would not risk breaking into a conversation because I don’t do that on a daily basis. I’m far more confident now than I was in Iruvar and Jeans when doing a Tamil film was like giving an exam. Then there is Rajni sir who is hugely encouraging. After every shot,he will exclaim ‘What Tamil,eh?’ (with gestures).

How did you take Raavan’s failure at the box office?

I am an entertainer and I work for creative satisfaction. Cinema is all about trying something new. I wish to continue making good cinema and may be it will be liked by all and be a success at the box-office also.

Guzaarish and Action Replayy will see you in different roles with Bollywood’s two top actors,Hrithik Roshan and Akshay Kumar.

I don’t do films to be with my co-stars or to make hot on-screen jodis. I work with my directors who cast me for specific roles. I am totally a director’s actor. My directors cast me with a vision and I am there in a film if the character suits me and not to make for sensational casting.

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