Nandamuri Balakrishna is super high on the success of his latest film Gautamiputra Satakarni. The historical drama is going great guns all over and on this occasion, we met Balayya for a very detailed interview. Let’s see what he has to say.

How are you enjoying the success of the film?

More than my happiness, I feel that the film’s success is a huge victory for Telugu people all over the word. The way they have owned this film and made it a huge hit has made me immensely happy. I also thank the media for playing a big role in taking this film so such huge heights.

All those who watched the film say that no one other than you could have played Satakarni?

I take it as a huge compliment and feel that it is because of my dad’s lineage that everyone is feeling like that. Right from my dad to me, we always loved portraying such historical characters. Even during the making of the film, I felt that my dad was always around and pushed me through the completion of the film.

What attracted yo towards this film?

When Krish narrated this film, I liked his conviction immensely. He was very clear as to where the film will be shot, how long will the duration be and even the release date of the film. The moment I saw the packed product and such a rare chance to do a historical film as my 100th project, I grabbed it with both hands.

Didn’t you feel making this film a huge risk in this day and age?

Right from the moment Krish narrated the film, I was super confident that the project will be a huge hit. There was not much of a storyline when Krish narrated me the script. But even then, the way he was confident and the subject matter we chose, made me feel super confident.

What kind of preparation went into the film?

As very less was written about the film, we had to imagine and improvise a lot. From my side, I got along with the director and unit well and tried to assess the atmosphere on the set. The moment Krish narrated a particular scene and its situation, the energy automatically flowed into me and there was no looking back.

Tell us more about you prepared physically for the film?

Fitness for me is being healthy and having the stamina to work long hours. I don’t believe in the six pack abs and everyone will laugh if I try to get a new body transformation. Also, I feel that having such huge bare bodies and sculpted physiques is not in our culture. We are more natural and everyone loves us that way.

What were your instructions to Krish for Satakarni?

I wanted him to make the film very commercially. I don’t believe in giving messages and strictly warned that my film should not have any comedians as it would dilute the importance of the film. Even during many shots, I gave valuable inputs which Krish followed meticulously.

Initially, there was huge competition between two Sankranthi releases. How do you assess it now?

I strongly feel that there should always be healthy competition between top heroes. If there is a tough fight, we will be more careful and work on our film even harder. Chiranjeevi is the only person whom I am close to in the industry and it is good to see both our films doing extremely well.

Which other heroes do you get along in the industry?

I don’t interact with anyone much as I am very busy with my own life. As I am also an MLA, things are quite hectic and I also have the cancer hospital to take care of.

Tell us about Rythu?

I have done a lot of homework for the film and even narrated the script to Amitabh Bachchan for a cameo. The film will go on floors only if Amitabh agrees to be a part of it. It is a very sensitive subject and the film will be based in Telangana. Everything is in discussion stages and we are still waiting for Big B’s approval.

About Mokshagnya’s entry?

His debut film will be launched by 2017 end. As of now, he has assisted Krish for Satakarni and is currently getting trained in all art forms which will be useful for his career.

Will he be the next lover boy of Tollywood?

Laughs! ” Ma fans Oppukoremo”. As of now, nothing has been decided and we are still waiting for the right film and director to start the project. One thing is sure that both I and he will act in Aditya 999 as the project will suit us exactly. Even that film is in the pipeline and the concept has been fixed.

Why is everyone scared of you in real life?

Laughs again! Even I don’t know why everyone is scared of me. I am a very normal and jovial person who behaves like every other human being. Maybe, there are influenced by my reel life persona and the characters I play.

Will you do a multi-starer?

Yes ! why not. In fact, I have an idea and will pitch it to another hero soon. For me, my role and the way the director will showcase me will be a priority.