Rahul

It might take some time for Telugu audience to refer to this young chap as Rahul because he is popular through out the state as Tyson. His role in Happy Days as Tyson is outstanding and so is his performance. Here is a quick chit chat with Rahul.

Congratulations on the success. How are you enjoying it?
Thank you very much… I am on cloud nine now. Enjoying every moment.. Also, I feel a bit proud to get so much recognition with the first movie itself. This entire credit goes to Sekhar sir. We knew the movie would do well but never expected the response in this super range. I am very very happy that Happy Days became a super hit. We thought it will click only with the youth but the feel is carried through out the film and is adored by all segments.

Give us a pinch of your background?
My father is an industrialist and mother is qualified doctor. My sister goes to college at CBIT. Native is Nizamabad but bringing up is all in Hyderabad. I finished BBA from ICFAI. I have a great passion towards films from my childhood. I always wanted to be an actor. I applied for this film and got the opportunity. I underwent training in acting under the supervision of Ramana Murthy garu, (assistant of Satyanand).

It seems you were picked initially for a different role.
Initially I was supposed to play either Chandu or Rajesh. And for Tyson role, they were looking for a tall guy. After several short listings, they could not find the guy they were looking for. I almost zeroed on Rajesh's role. One day Sekhar sir told me that I should do Tyson role. I was skeptical a bit because that is deglamorized role and if that would effect my career in films. When the film was in making, I was confident that this character will stand out and now it turned out true.

You voice seems a bit different in the film. Is it done intentionally?
Yes. That is purely Sekhar sir's vision. He wanted me to deliver the dialogs in that accent only. Not only my diction, mannerisms, looks and every thing were presented very differently than my natural way. He always reminded me that I am Tyson and not Rahul, and hence I should start living as Tyson and not Rahul. He made us understand things, made us feel comfortable. Over all, he gave us freedom. There was always good working relation. There used to be discussions, suggestions and arguments on the sets. He is very sportive.

Are you worried that you will end up with similar roles?
No.. Now a days, audience are far more open minded than what they were about 10 yaers ago. They appreciate good cinema and good actors. They are liking the way the characters are played rather than the characters. So, I dont think I will end up with stereo typed roles.

In real life, what are you? Which of the four characters is close to you?
I love the character of Rajesh in this film. It has full of Josh. Personally, I am a blend of Tyson and Rajesh. Tyson is too good. If you are even half as good as what Tyson is in the film, you will be loved by one and all.

How do you compare your real self to Tyson?
Few similarities, probably. But I am never like him falling for a girl. I am a bit shy in that aspect. Academically, Tyson is top notch and I am not (laughs). But I give the first priority to friendship. So that is a similarity.

Do you think you will give up your computer science seat for your friend?
I am not sure. May be, it depends. I might....

You four worked closely for almost 3 months. Tell us your experience with them
All four of us came from different backgrounds. Initially, we used to just say hi to each other. When it came to rehearsals part, we mingled with each other. And we four used to share a room. So all four of us gradually started living our characters really. Even the actors who played seniors batch also used to be with us. Even today, we four are in good touch with each other and we talk on regular basis. Chandu is now in US. Ranadheer (Senior) and I meet every day. I am glad that on top of giving me a career, the film also gave me some good friends.

WHat kind of compliments did you get from the industry people?
First compliment is from Sekhar sir only. He said, 'Out of the four , your character is superb. You will take limelight after the release'. Then followed the compliments from Prakashraj, Dhil Raju, MS Raju and others.

Did you ever find any interesting girl.. any senior? How should be a girl in your view?
No.. No .. and no seniors for sure. And to be honest, I dont like curly hair. As I said, I am too shy with girls. I never can talk to them comfortably. A girl in my view should be a traditional girl with contemparory style of thinking.

Did you sign up any new projects? What kind of characters would you like to do?
I am getting some offers but nothing is committed yet. I am planning a change in myself before taking up the next one. Regarding characters, I love to do all kinds.

WHat kind of movies do you like?
I like all sorts of films. Films like Arya, Pokiri, Bommarillu etc are very good.