I’m so attached to RRR: SS Rajamouli

SS Rajamouli, Ram Charan and Jr. NTR came together along with producer Jayantilal Gada in Mumbai to celebrate the success of RRR in an event befitting the grand scale of the film. Media personnel from across India were present on the occasion, and Rajamouli and the stars answered a variety of questions from them. Here are a few of the insights they gave:

Rajamaouli Garu, you are an exuberant storyteller! Would you mind if we add ‘fantasy’ to that tag?

Rajamouli: As long as you like my films, you can put any tag you like on me!

Comparison is inevitable. Both Baahubali and RRR are ‘A’ grade films. But which one is closer to your heart?

Rajamouli: It is very difficult to judge. At this point of time I am so attached to RRR that if you ask to name the best film, not only from my own filmography but from all the movies I have watched since early childhood, I would say RRR. Maybe, in the next six to eight months, once the euphoria dies down, I may be able to give the right answer.  

With Baahubali 1 and 2 and now RRR having broken so many records, will there be pressure on you to bring an even more wonderful story next time, and outdo box-office expectations?

Rajamouli: Well let me put it this way – what we always do is make our next film the best possible. The numbers are not in our hands. Many factors contribute to numbers – the holidays around the release, the distribution, how strong the exhibitors are…Though the numbers are important, the love and appreciation of the audience are what is pivotal to us. There has been a lot of appreciation from all types of audiences for Baahubali and RRR. Significantly, what I have noticed this time is that even Western audiences are appreciating RRR. The overwhelming appreciation for RRR from Western audiences has gladdened our hearts. Going forward, I will keep in mind that I have to give my best to wider audiences.

Ram Charan, what is your view on Superstardom? Has RRR changed your perception of it?

(Twitter)

Ram Charan: Superstardom for me is waking up at 5 A.M., reaching the location at 7 A.M. and giving the shot at 7.30 A.M, then returning home to spend an hour with the family before hitting the gym, going to bed, and doing the same thing when you wake up the next day. It might sound boring, but this boring routine is what brings you success. I have to keep working hard throughout to be able to give my best and sustain in the industry.

You seem to have hogged the accolades!

Ram Charan: I don’t believe that at all; not even for a second. I think we both have excelled, and Taraka was fantastic. I enjoyed working in RRR, getting such an opportunity was great, and what I take back is my journey with Bheem, my journey with Taraka which I will never ever forget. A big thanks to Rajamouli for giving me that role. I love every bit of it.

Which is your favourite scene?

Ram Charan: Undoubtedly, it’s the one on the misunderstanding between me and Ram.