Original Monster Has a Heart: Shivarajkumar on His New Film, Mumbai and Juhu Beach

The title launch of RC Studios’ upcoming Pan India film, directed and produced by R. Chandru, was attended by Karnataka Superstar Dr. Shivaraj Kumar and Geetha Shivarajkumar, along with Telugu actor Sunil, music director Ajaneesh Loknath, production designer Shivakumar J, and DOP Arjun Shetty. The much-awaited title was unveiled by renowned businessman and producer Anand Pandit.

In conversation with DC, the well-known OG Shiva Rajkumar answered a few questions — his love for Mumbai City, Original Monster, Director Chandru and why he will not be able to relish “Pani Puri” in Mumbai.

Excerpts:

You have been coming to Mumbai for many years, and your wife has also been with you on several of these trips. What do these journeys mean to you? Tell us about your association with the city.

I think my journey with Mumbai started around 1986. The first time I came to Mumbai was after my marriage 40 years ago, when I came here with my wife in August. I stayed for about ten days in Bandra. Since then, I have kept coming to Mumbai regularly.

Over the years, I have come here for film shoots, promotions and various other commitments. I shot for AK-47 here and stayed for almost a month. I have also visited Mumbai for the promotions of Ghost. Now, I am also associated with Kalyan Jewellers, so I come here for shoots with Amitabh Sir. It’s been a long and beautiful association with Mumbai.

You are reuniting with director Chandru after a long gap. What made you collaborate again?

Chandru and I share a very good understanding. We understand each other's way of working, and there has always been a lot of mutual respect between us. I had earlier done a cameo for him in Kabzaa, and now we are coming together again with Original Monster. It has been a long gap, but sometimes certain collaborations take time to happen. I am very happy that we are finally doing this film together.

The title “Original Monster” sounds intense. What can audiences expect from the film?

The title may sound very different and intense, but when you watch the film, you will realise that even the Original Monster has a heart. When I heard the story, I found it very intriguing. People may describe it as something very different or out of the world, but I would say it is actually a simple subject presented in an interesting way.

You will enjoy the film, but at the same time, there is also a beautiful message about life. The film makes you think about what life really means and how we choose to spend it. That message will stay with the audience.

How has your experience been working with the rest of the team?

I am very happy to be associated with Chandru, Anand Sir and the entire team. We have a wonderful crew, including our cinematographer and composer Ajaneesh. I think this is my third film with Ajaneesh, so there is already a good understanding between us.

Everyone has contributed tremendously, and I am very happy to be part of this team.

You have spoken about your love for Mumbai. What do you enjoy doing when you are in the city?

Whenever I come to Bombay, I like walking around the streets. I especially love Juhu Beach. People tell me there will be a crowd, but I don't mind. I like my freedom.

I don't like sitting inside a hotel throughout my visit. I like going out, observing people and enjoying the city. I love going to Juhu Beach and having Pani Puri. I also make it a point to visit Mahesh Lunch Home whenever I am here.

I was born in Chennai, so I think I naturally feel comfortable in coastal weather. Whenever I visit a coastal city, I feel connected to it. And I genuinely love Bombay.

What do you think about your first look from “Original Monster”?

I think there is a lot of suspense in the first look. There are so many questions. Why is there money? Why is there a sword on his shoulder? Why is there a bag full of money on his bike? These things immediately make you curious about the character.

There is a lot more to the story than what the poster reveals. The intriguing story will also make you laugh.

The poster also hints this film to be a very violent film. Is that so?

There is violence in the film, but the important question is why the character gets involved in that world and under what circumstances. That is where the suspense lies.

When you watch the film, you will see a very different characterisation. His look may appear extremely violent, but there is also a lot of entertainment and humour. You will be surprised because, despite the intense appearance, there are many moments where you will laugh. There is definitely a strong fun element in the film.

Casting plays a very important role in a film like this. Can you tell us who the villain is?

The villain is me! [Says laughingly]

Apart from you, is there anyone else as villain we should be looking at?

[Dodging the question, remaining tight-lipped] (Laughs) Bhavna Ma'am is also there. But if you ask me who the villain is, I would say I am the villain. Actually, Chandru is the villain because he is the one who made me the villain!

There has been a lot of speculation about your appearance in “Jailer 2”. Can you shed some light on it?

Yes, I am there in Jailer 2. But I don't want to reveal too much right now. The film is expected to come in October, so you will have to wait and see.

Would you ever consider owning a property in Mumbai?

(Laughs) The commuting here is very enjoyable, especially walking down Juhu Beach! But honestly, it would be better to live here and give people some good films.

Anand Sir has also mentioned that he could arrange a house for you, perhaps even near Juhu Beach. What do you say to that?

(Laughs) Thank you! If the house is right on Juhu Beach, I will definitely consider it.

You are considered one of the original icons of Kannada cinema. How do you see the transformation of the Kannada film industry, especially after the success of films like KGF?

I am very proud of the Kannada film industry. Films like KGF have taken Kannada cinema to a completely different level and given it a global identity. It is wonderful to see Kannada films being watched and appreciated by audiences across the country and internationally.

I think this is a very exciting time for our industry, and I am happy to see the kind of recognition Kannada cinema is receiving today.

Lastly, when is the film going on floors and what surprises are there in store for the audiences?

The film is set to be rolling down on September 7. We are planning to rope in a famous Bollywood actor. You guys will have to wait for that surprise. We shall reveal it soon.

Please come and watch the film with an open mind. It is entertaining, but at the same time, it has something meaningful to say about life. I am very happy to be part of this film and this team. I hope audiences will support us throughout the journey.