Rajesh Sri Chakravarthy begins his journey to live up to his name

Rajesh Sri Chakravarthy, grandson of legendary music composer Chakravarthy is making his acting debut with a thriller titled Shivakasipuram. The young actor is the son of versatile music composer Sri. While his grandfather and father are music directors, Rajesh had chosen an alternate path and decided to be an actor.

He says it was his father’s dream to see him as an actor, but he was never ready for it until he gave up his first love cricket. “When I was a kid, my grandfather suggested me for a small role in Lahiri Lahiri Lahirilo. But, I was too shy to do that film and he gave up any hopes on me. Eventually, I started playing cricket and represented Hyderabad U-19 cricket team.”

Justifying his late entry into films, Rajesh says, “After I grew up, I started watching films and slowly gained confidence. I used to act and dance at home. When I stopped playing cricket and sat idle for six-seven months, my father suggested that I should take up acting and I decided to take his advice. I joined Satyanand master’s acting institute, trained for three months and eventually got into the industry.” Before taking up acting, he worked as an assistant to director Nandini Reddy on Kalyana Vaibhogame and acted in a short film called Nuvvu Chala Hot Guru. “When the makers of Shivakasipuram met me with the script I was initially apprehensive about signing the film. But the encouragement and suggestions I got from Satyanand master made me take up this project. I sincerely feel I was destined to do Shivakasipuram.”

Rajesh realises the responsibility that comes along with his name. “As a kid, I was never fond of music and wondered how people listen to some songs in a loop. But, over the years my perception changed, and currently, I’m learning music. Although I like acting, I will also pursue a career as a music director. There’s always the onus of carrying on the family’s legacy in my mind.”

Describing Jr NTR as his inspiration, Rajesh explains, “I’m a huge fan of NTR. My father shared a great rapport with him. I met him only once but I used to talk to him over phone occasionally. He advised me to be mentally tough and never give up on anything if I wish to sustain and survive in the film industry. His words motivated me a lot. I can never forget the affection he showered on me.”

Does NTR know about his debut? He says, “I don’t know. But, I will definitely meet him after my film releases. If everything goes as planned, the film will release this summer.”

About his role in Shivakasipuram, he says, “I play an auto driver who suffers from a condition that causes psychotic behaviour on a full moon day. It’s an interesting role with a thrilling narrative. The film is set in a fictitious village named Shivakasipuram and the story revolves around plenty of superstitions. A major portion of the film was shot in Mancherial.”

The film’s release has been delayed due to various reasons. Speaking about it, Rajesh shares, “The film has many technicians from Kerala. So it was really difficult to streamline everything and coordinate with everyone. And due to circumstances beyond our control, it things got delayed. I would like to thank my producer Mohanbabu Pulimamidi for passionately supporting the entire team through all this.”

The debutant asserts that he will attempt to do different kinds of roles. “I don’t want to confine myself to lead roles. I’m open to negative roles, even if its opposite NTR (smiles). The idea is to be part of good cinema.”

Ask him how he feels about the upcoming release, and he says, “I am a bit nervous, but at the same time I'm excited. I am praying that I will be able to live up to the expectations. My only aim is to work hard and prove myself.”