Vijay Deverakonda makes it to Forbes 30 Under 30'

In yet another big achievement, Vijay Deverakonda has made it to the Forbes list of ‘30 Under 30’ in the entertainment category, becoming the only Indian actor to find a spot this year. The actor’s popularity has peaked phenomenally within a short span of time, surpassing every other actor in the industry.

“I have been shooting almost every single day for the last few years and have hardly taken a break. So whenever any kind of recognition comes my way, I think that I am only doing my work here and these are reactions to my work,” says Vijay, who adds, “Seeing my name in the Forbes list is a bit confusing, especially since I am an ordinary boy with ambitious dreams. If I can pull it off, anyone can.”

Clearly, Vijay realises the impact of his achievement on his fans. “People are looking at me, and when they see this achievement of mine, they all feel hopeful that they can achieve something too,” says the actor, who feels getting into Forbes is ‘like a miracle’.

Nicknamed the South Sensation, the actor has earned recognition from multiple quarters. So how does he feel about it all? “It all feels normal,” says the actor.

“I never feel any pressure, I just want to continue my good work. It’s not just my earnings though, it’s also about my ‘Rowdy’ brand, the line of clothing and the market revenue created through my films. I am still not earning like the big stars," the actor adds. Did he ever think he would make it so big someday? “Speaking to my family makes me nostalgic. In the old days, we all shared one bed. So there are mixed emotions. But those days can’t come back, so I need to work harder,” says an emotional Vijay, adding that he is now detached from all material things. The actor reveals that his friends and relatives get very emotional whenever he achieves something. “All my friends and cousins are happy that although they couldn’t achieve this, I did,” he shares with a smile.

Vijay attributes the success of Arjun Reddy to be a major stepping stone. “You can’t sustain on one film. But Arjun Reddy really contributed a great deal to my success. But at the end of the day, there are hundreds of small things put together that created all this,” he says philosophically.

Things have changed so dramatically that now, every other actress wants to act opposite him! “It’s all a part of life,” says Vijay, adding, “I still remember how we struggled for Pelli Choopulu. Now I don’t need to do all that.” So what’s his take on popularity and stardom? “I don’t take these things seriously. I just want to do my work. I like the words ‘action’ and ‘cut’. When you work hard, the rest follows,” he concludes, as he reveals that he never plans for awards or achievements. “I don’t even know anything about budgets, box-office collections or other things related to the trade,” he says.