Kishore, who was last seen in Vetri Maaran’s Visaranai, is uber-excited about his upcoming film Kabali. The actor, who considers Rajinikanth a demi-god, opens up about his role in the film, his adoration for Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, and his lineup of projects.
Q How did the Kabali offer happen?
When I was shooting with Prakash Raj in Hyderabad, he came up to me and told that, there might be a chance for me to be cast in Kabali. A day later, Thanu sir called saying that there is an important role in the film and that I might be perfect for it. I play a gangster in the film; I did not expect such an important role
in a Rajini-starrer.
Q How is it to play gangster in most of the films?
(Laughs) Of late, it has become difficult to play negative roles. It started with my role in Polladhavan. However, my character did have a bit of heroism and positivity to it. To play a negative role in Kabali was challenging because I am acting opposite Rajinikanth, who has excelled in portraying negative shades. But, somehow, I managed to act opposite him!
Q What was your preparation for the role?
I was informed that there would be workshops before the commencement of the shoot. But, I had to shoot for a Telugu film; hence I couldn’t take part in the rehearsals. When it came to my looks, they had already determined how I should appear on screen. I was asked to fix a gold tooth when I was in Hyderabad and we previewed certain test looks, before finalising on one look. Since, Ranjith’s team had done research on my looks and mannerisms, it was easy for me.
Q Is your role in Kabali based on a real life character?
In Kabali, one can find a lot of real-life characters, and mine is based on one too. If you watch the film, you will get answers to why gangsterism started in Malaysia, the economic conditions of Tamils living there, and the political situation prevalent in the area.
Q Can you explain the hard work that has gone into the movie?
To see Rajini sir juggling between the sets of Kabali and 2.O was taxing for us. He had to carry the heavy metal armour for 2.O, while he had to wear his blazer in scorching heat for Kabali. We felt really sorry for him. On the other hand, I wore a thin shirt, but was unable to carry my jewels because of the heat. People from Thailand and China used to make fun of me, seeing me carrying those heavy jewels!
Q Were there any scenes where you had to hit Rajinikanth? Did you have any inhibitions?
Before the movie releases, you would get me beaten up I think (laughs). Thanks to Rajini sir, he made those scenes look very comfortable. He would make every scene look casual, so that one wouldn’t feel his overpowering aura. I have been a part of his films as an audience, so his stature would not bother me at all. Malaysians, who came to visit Rajini sir, would call him anna and thambi. He had become like a family member.
Q How do you think this movie will turn out for Rajinikanth?
I don’t think I am capable of analysing that. But, as an audience, I loved his look. He is basically stylish and in this movie he is the epitome of stylishness. All of us at the sets will be admiring the Rajini sir’s actions even when we don’t have our shots. We all have that admiration for him. I really wish Rajini sir acts under Vetri Maaran’s direction one day. I am waiting for this combination to join hands.
Q You got to act with both Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth. How do you feel?
I feel extremely lucky, and I can’t find any difference between them. I love both of them so much that I can’t explain it in words. I would just sit in one corner and look at them acting. Both of them use their stardom and charisma for the good of the people, which is really commendable.
Q What are your upcoming projects?
In Vada Chennai, I play a gangster. It focuses on the underworld of North Chennai. Shooting is currently underway in Chennai and major portions are shot in a jail set. Every character that Vetri Maaran crafts is a strong one. My character is intense, and has layers. I have a few combination scenes with Vijay Sethupathi. Sattai 2 deals about the same issue as Sattai and is set in a rural backdrop. This will also concentrate more on children’s mindset. I am also doing a Kannada film titled, Comma — a contemporary film. An untitled film with Igor of Kalaaba Kaadhalan fame is on the cards as well.
