Exclusive: Nani on Filmfare Wins, His Love for Acting, and Upcoming Projects
Telugu cinema’s beloved Natural Star Nani exudes an infectious warmth that immediately puts people at ease. Meeting him in Mumbai for an exclusive late-night interview, days after Filmfare’s South Awards in Hyderabad, feels less like an interaction with a pan-Indian superstar and more like catching up with a friend. As he reflects on his journey, his love for cinema, and the art of acting, it’s clear why audiences adore him.
Natural Star Nani: An Exclusive Filmfare Interview on Stardom, Craft, and Cinema
“If I were a superhero, I’d need all the superpowers to save people,” he muses with a characteristic smile. “Sounds like kindness is your superpower,” I suggest. His playful reply? “Oh, I already have it then!” This blend of humility, humor, and passion for storytelling defines Nani, whose transition from assistant director to superstar is as inspiring as it is impressive.
In this candid conversation, Nani shares insights about his stardom, his recent projects, and his approach to balancing action, emotion, and the magic of cinema.
Winning the Filmfare Award for Dasara: A Milestone Moment
For Nani, winning the Filmfare Award for Best Actor (Male) – Telugu for Dasara was more than just a personal triumph. “The real highlight for me was presenting the Best Debut Director Awards to my two directors from last year. Both delivered blockbuster hits despite skepticism about my choice to work with newcomers,” he says, adding that the experience felt like a fairytale moment.
Switching Gears: From Dasara to Hi Nanna
Does Nani plan his career shifts strategically? Not quite. “I don’t decide in advance that I must do an action film after a love story. I simply follow what excites me in the moment,” he explains. This organic approach has led him to explore diverse genres, keeping his audience—and himself—engaged.
The Thrill of Saripodhaa Sanivaaram
Nani’s upcoming action drama, Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, stands out with its innovative premise. “The story revolves around a character with anger issues who promises his mother to only unleash his rage on Saturdays,” he reveals. This quirky concept flips the typical action formula on its head, bringing a fresh perspective to the genre.
Managing Emotions On and Off Screen
Despite the intense roles he plays, Nani remains grounded. “Anger is rare for me, and I let it go quickly,” he shares. On set, if frustration arises, he channels his energy into music to regain focus. “Anger can sometimes be necessary, but it should never linger,” he adds thoughtfully.
Balancing Action with Emotion in Cinema
For Nani, the success of an action film lies in its emotional depth. “If the audience doesn’t feel connected to the characters, even the most spectacular action sequences fall flat,” he says. This philosophy underscores his commitment to bringing emotional authenticity to every frame.
Learning from Legends: Amitabh Bachchan’s Impact
Amitabh Bachchan’s influence looms large in Nani’s career. “Mr. Bachchan’s presence, voice, and charisma are unparalleled,” he says, recalling how filmmaker S.J. Suryah compared him to the legendary actor. “It’s the highest honor I could imagine,” Nani admits humbly.
Evolving as an Actor: From Eega to Dasara
Looking back, Nani credits his journey to the opportunities and challenges he’s embraced. “I’ve grown to pursue roles that I’m passionate about, rather than simply taking what’s available,” he reflects. His experiences have shaped his approach to cinema, allowing him to connect with a broader audience while staying true to his craft.
Director’s Actor: The Secret Behind Nani’s Success
Having started as an assistant director, Nani brings a unique perspective to his acting. “I see myself as a director’s actor, offering multiple takes and ensuring consistency,” he explains. This collaborative mindset has earned him a reputation for being both versatile and reliable on set.
The Influence of S.S. Rajamouli
Collaborating with visionary director S.S. Rajamouli on Eega was transformative for Nani. “Rajamouli sir’s boundless creativity taught me to think beyond practical constraints. It was a game-changing experience,” he shares.
A Star Grounded in Cinema
Despite his success, Nani remains deeply connected to his craft. “I don’t focus on measuring stardom. What matters is the love I receive and the deeper connection I have with my audience,” he says.
Nani’s Cinematic Philosophy
From his humble beginnings to becoming a pan-Indian star, Nani’s journey is a testament to his passion, authenticity, and dedication. Whether it’s experimenting with genres, embracing innovative narratives, or staying true to his values, Nani continues to redefine what it means to be a “Natural Star.”
Also read: Hi Nanna A Heartwarming Tale of Family, Sacrifice, and Redemption
