Rajinikanth Has a Simple Nature, Kamal Haasan is Highly Knowledgeable: Kishore

It is no secret that Rajinikanth's upcoming film Kabali has created quite a buzz amongst fans of Tamil cinema thanks to the superstar’s awesome new getup. Furthermore, the mob drama has also grabbed eyeballs as it features a competent supporting cast.

 And an integral part of the cast is the higly versatile Kishore. The talented actor will be seen essaying a negative role. In this exclusive chat with Pinkvilla, he opens up about working ‘Thalaiva’. Moreover, he also compares Rajinikanth’s popularity with that of the legendary Kamal Haasan,

What encouraged you to take up Kabali? Please tell us a bit about the role.

Just about anyone .would have said yes to this role. It was such a good part. The opportunity to play the villain in a Rajinikanth starrer cannot be missed. My character comes across as a very typical villain. However, as this is a Pa Ranjith-helmed film, a lot of thought has gone into it. There is something subtle about my role.  The film revolves around the underworld in Malaysia. But at the same time, it also deals with social and economic issues as well.

What type of preparation did you do to get into the skin of the character?

Honestly, I was a bit lazy. Most of the hard work was done by the team. Everything—right from the look to the accent—was worked on by them. As such, I don’t think, too much of preparation was needed.

You worked with Kamal Haasan in Thoongavanam and now you are working with Rajinikanth. How different are they as co-stars and artistes?

There is not much difference between them.They are pretty similar.   Both are legends in the truest sense of the word. Both have contributed a lot to Tamil cinema. The audiences keep coming back to the theatres because of them.  Kamal sir is someone who thinks only about cinema when he is on the sets. He  has deep knowledge of movies music, art etc. And is very knowledgeable. What I really like about Rajini sir is his simple nature. Moreover, his thoughts too are extremely simple. This stems from the fact that he has attained that level of maturity through his experience.  That said and done, just like  Kamal, he too is a knowledgeable person.

Now, let’s talk about Kishore the person. How did acting happen?

I got into college theatre when I was doing my masters in Kannada literature. Later, along with a friend, I began designing costumes. One day, I went on my friend’s behalf to meet a director. There was a role vacant in the film. He asked me to send some photos. A friend had a camera and we quickly shot some pics. After some time I got the role. That’s how it all began.

What are the challenges associated with being a celebrity? Who is your pillar of support during difficult times?

Everyone—right from my family to my friends—has been a pillar of support. They have never let me down. Moreover, my wife has looked after the kids in my absence. In a way, she has been their father and mother,

I don’t consider myself to be a celeb. I am a common man. But yes at times, as an actor, one’s privacy is encroached upon. However, that’s part of the game That said and done because of my busy schedule, I am unable to spend enough time with my kids. I feel bad about it. This is the formative stage of their lives. It is a time when their personalities are being morphed.

Any Recent films you wish you could have been a part of?

I am fond of Anurag Kashyap’s films. Then I really liked the Lunchbox. As far as the South is concerned, I end up doing most of the films I want to.

Did you ever feel that you missed out on the opportunity to do Baahuali?

Not at all. I am not fond of tech-heavy films. Films should start a dialogue with the audience. They should compel them to think. Baahubali did not do that.

Any plans of entering Hindi films?

I don’t really believe in planning anything. But, of course, if something good comes up I am open to it.

On a parting note, please tell us about your upcoming films?

First up I have My Son is Gay. It is based on a social issue and tries to create an awareness. I took it up because of Anupama(Kumar). It has been directed by Lokesh. He is very clear about what he is doing. Besides this, I have Vada Chennai which is a Vetrimaaran film. Then there is Sattai 2.