Kishore 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 you get the offer for Kabali?
When I was shooting with Prakash Raj in Hyderabad, he told me 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. However, my character did have a bit of heroism and positivity to it. It was challenging because I am acting opposite Rajinikanth, who has excelled in portraying negative shades. But, somehow, I managed to do it.
Q. How did you prepare for the role?
I was informed that there would be workshops before the shoot starts. But, I had to shoot for a Telugu film; so 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.
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 Tamilians living there, and the political situation in the country.
Q. What is the kind of 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, and he had to wear a blazer in the 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 jewellery because of the heat. People from Thailand and China used to laugh at me, seeing me like that!
Q. Were there any scenes where you had to hit Rajinikanth? Did you have any inhibitions?
Thanks to Rajini sir, he made those scenes very comfortable. He would make every scene look casual so that I wouldn’t feel intimidated. Malaysians, who came to visit Rajini sir, would call him anna and thambi. He had almost become a family member.
Q. How do you think this movie will turn out for Rajinikanth?
I am not capable of analysing that. But I loved his look. He is generally stylish and in this movie, he is the epitome of stylishness. All of us at the sets would be admiring Rajini sir’s acting.
Q. You got to act with both Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth. How do you feel?
I feel extremely lucky, and can’t find any difference between them. I love both of them a lot. Both of them use their stardom and charisma for the good of the people.
