His father, Satyanand is known to be a star maker, having trained the likes of Pawan Kalyan, Mahesh Babu, Ravi Teja and several others at his acting school in Vizag. It is no wonder then that his son Raghavendra got so influenced by the environment that he grew up in that his eventual choice of career became cinema too.
“If anyone asked me what I could do, the answer was always cinema because that was my comfort zone. However, I studied engineering and almost joined an MNC too. But Sasikiran Narayana (daughter of M.S. Narayana) akka called me for an audition and the deal was sealed. I discussed it with my mother, who insisted that I follow my dreams as a job could be done anytime,” he recalls.
Three years on, Raghavendra has done half a dozen films and will be seen in a key role in director Vamsy’s next film, Fashion Designer s/o Ladies Tailor. “I can’t tell you how exciting it is to be a part of the film,” he says, adding, “Long ago, when I saw Ladies Tailor, I was in awe of the film’s brilliance. Who knew that one day I’d be part of the sequel?”
Apparently the director has explored his comic side in a completely new way. “I can give my best in comedy. I have an important connection with a character from the original film and working with Vamsy garu was like joining a university of acting,” he shares.
When asked how he deals with his dad, the stalwart at home, Raghavendra reveals, “He has immense experience and understanding of the craft. His approval means a great deal. He has never encouraged using his name for anything, so that’s a good way to help me find myself.”
