Prashanth Neel Opens Up on NTR’s Intense Transformation Journey
The team had already conducted look tests and was preparing to start filming when he suggested that NTR lose some weight to better suit the role of an assassin.
NTR’s physical transformation has become a major talking point over the last few months. Director Prashanth Neel recently addressed the discussion during an interview with Bharadwaj Rangan on YouTube.
During the conversation, Bharadwaj Rangan pointed out that NTR appeared noticeably leaner compared to his look in RRR and asked how the character’s appearance had been designed. Neel revealed that the transformation process had begun nearly one and a half years ago. The team had already conducted look tests and was preparing to start filming when he suggested that NTR lose some weight to better suit the role of an assassin.
However, according to Neel, the actor took the suggestion much further than expected. Quoting a Chinese saying, “Beware of what you wish for,” Neel said NTR became intensely committed to the idea once he was convinced about the character. He revealed that the actor stopped shooting for around four months and focused entirely on transforming himself for the role.
Neel said NTR eventually lost nearly 15 kilos, which began worrying those around him. He recalled repeatedly asking the actor to slow down because he had started looking frail and pale. Despite that, NTR remained determined to achieve the exact look envisioned for the character.
The filmmaker also shared that NTR’s wife, mother, friends and even members of his own team were upset with him, believing he had pushed the actor too aggressively toward the transformation.
Neel added that social media speculation about NTR’s health had also begun during that phase because of his drastic weight loss. He clarified that he had only suggested a moderate change, but said NTR “went berserk with it” after becoming convinced about the character design.
Praising his dedication, Neel described NTR as one of the most committed and stubborn individuals he has worked with. According to him, once the actor believes in something, changing his mind becomes extremely difficult.
Neel further revealed that NTR wanted to completely embody the vision of an assassin trained in Afghanistan. The actor reportedly aimed for sharper facial features, a leaner physique and an overall appearance that reflected the hardened nature of the character.
The process, Neel admitted, was physically demanding. Watching someone lose 15–16 kilos within a few months was difficult for the team, especially during the first two months when the rapid transformation caused concern among those close to the actor.
