Vidaamuyarchi actor Aarav calls Ajith ‘kind’, opens up on his journey after Bigg Boss: ‘I don’t have the luxury to fail’

At this juncture of your career, how important were the interactions with Ajith Kumar? What were your learnings, as an actor, and a person? 

We have often heard about the kind of person he is, and how he is not just a gentleman but also a kind co-actor. But in this Vidaamuyarchi journey, I was able to see a wonderful side of him. Apart from being a fantastic actor, he is also someone who wants his co-actors to shine bright. He spoke to me about my career, and instead of doling out advice, he would talk about things from his own career, which becomes an inspiration in itself. His contagious energy also teaches us how to be a good person, how to be with your co-actors and crew, and how to treat all equally. 

Aarav and Ajith Kumar share screen space for the first time in Vidaamuyarchi.

You’ve worked with Magizh in Kalaga Thalaivan, and now in Vidaamuyarchi. How has your equation with him developed over the years? 

Magizh sir is a perfectionist, and is one of the most intelligent filmmakers in Tamil cinema right now. His writing is both intense and extensive. Each character comes with a proper detailing even if it is not the main part of the narrative. He would give each of them a sense of a background, which aids the actors in the performance. He knows exactly what he wants from his actors. So, it is a thing of honour that he has liked my work to bring me back to his world. His films are like my training ground, and it made me connect with the actor in me. 

Is understanding the character a very collaborative process or do you just deliver what is wanted of you?

There is an almost minimal method acting in my process. I do sit down and do homework to understand how the character should be portrayed. Magizh sir gives an idea as to what the character would be about, and we make intricate additions to the look and feel of the role. He knows that the audience would be intrigued if there is a certain sense of nuance to each character. 

In fact, for Vidaamuyarchi, we were sure that Kalaga Thalaivan’s Arjun shouldn’t come across in any frame. We discussed the kind of energy that has to be brought in, and worked on everything, including speed of dialogue delivery, modulation of the voice, and even breathing patterns. Of course, this kind of space and time isn’t given for all characters, and it isn’t like every character needs this kind of space and time. But I am an actor who does take some time initially to switch on and out of the character, but a couple of days into the shoot, I am ready. 

With Vidaamuyarchi, there are intense expectations from you too. At any point, do you actually feel pressured with the mounting expectations stemming right from your Bigg Boss days to today? 

Definitely, I have that pressure. That is why I am very choosy about my films because I don’t think I have the luxury of delivering failure in cinema. I don’t have the chance to fail, and that’s why I am extra cautious in signing the right kind of films. There is no space for understanding things in retrospect or bravely taking risks. 

But does the industry allow up-and-coming actors like you to play the waiting game? In fact, can such actors do what, let’s say, Ajith Kumar has done with his racing pursuits. Is it possible to ace this balance? 

As of now, considering my age and financial needs, I don’t think I have that scope to play the waiting game or pursue parallel passions. However, honestly, I would actually like to design my life that way. You should have hobbies, and know who you are when you are not an actor. These pursuits keep you grounded and humble too. Stardom doesn’t get to your head if you are a lot of things apart from being a star. Just keep your passions fuelled.

Do you know what defines you apart from cinema? 

Honestly, yes I do. There is a definite idea in my mind as to what I want to do. There will come a time when I get to explore my passions and hobbies. It will take some time to come to fruition, but I hope things pan out well. 

ALSO READ | Regina Cassandra praises Vidaamuyarchi co-star Ajith: ‘Everyone should meet that man’ 

On the acting front, you are shuffling between playing the antagonist and the protagonist. Do you think balancing both is possible? 

Honestly… it all comes down to the script and the kind of role I am offered. Another important factor is definitely the director. I am very clear that there are certain scripts that need me as a hero, and there are certain others where various factors, including the director’s credentials, make me gravitate towards antagonist roles, or any other character for that matter. Things have to come together to make me accept the role of an antagonist or any other character. But yeah, predominantly, I want to do lead roles. 

Here’s the BTS Video from Vidaamuyarchi

Finally, despite a strong outlook towards life, and the support of a loving family, it must have been difficult to go through that almost catastrophic accident during the Vidaamuyarchi shoot.

Even yesterday, I was watching the BTS video of Vidaamuyarchi with my family. Seeing how we weathered a storm, a gruelling 121-day shoot, it was already emotional. When the accident sequence came up, I was in tears. There is so much effort that has gone into making Vidaamuyarchi. Also, this isn’t to evoke any sort of sympathy from the audience.

It is not often that so many risks are undertaken on a really big-budget film. Everything was extreme. So, the tears were also a result of the satisfaction that the day is finally here when people are going to see our efforts on the big screen.