Actor Bala, known for his stint in the hit comedy TV show Kalakka Povathu Yaaru, is all set to make his debut as the lead with Gandhi Kannadi where he will be starring alongside noted actor-director Balaji Sakthivel. While he is well known for his comedy and philanthropy work, and is a celebrated social media personality, this is the first time he headlines a film, and the opportunity did not come easy for him.
In a recent press meet, the actor revealed facing several hurdles to complete Gandhi Kannadi. Bala also stated how almost 50 female actors refused to star alongside him in the film. "I have acted in over 18 films, but many of my roles would not make it to the final cut for the theatres. They would tell me that a certain comedy actor has better face value and my scenes would be taken off. I will not blame them. I have felt bad many times that my name would appear on the title card, but I will never make it in the film," he said.
He also opened up on how filmmakers would not call him even for smaller roles. "Initially, I approached Sherief for a comedian role in the film. When Sherief approached production houses, many in the team questioned how I would fit the character of a comedian or a hero's friend. They had doubts and insisted on choosing an actor with a better face value. Then Ranam happened for him. One day, he called me to narrate a film where I would star as a hero. I was surprised," he shared.
He heaped praise and expressed his gratitude on the producer for trusting him and creating the project. "But the real struggle came when they were choosing a female lead. Many would come to listen the narration, but when they hear my name, they hesitate and leave. I have faced several such rejections. Almost 50 to be precise. I don't blame them," he said, thanking Namita Krishnamurthy for picking up the role without second thoughts. "For an actor without any background in the industry, and for a person with inferiority complex, this was a gesture I would never forget in my life," he added.
Apart from Bala, Balaji Sakthivel and Namita Krishnamurthy, Gandhi Kannadi also stars Archana in a pivotal role.
Gandhi Kannadi reunites Sherief with his Ranam- Aram Thavarel cinematographer Balaji K Raja. On the technical front, it also has music by Mervin Solomon and Vivek Siva.
The film is produced by Jayi Kiran under the Adhimulam Creations banner. Upon release, the film will clash with Sivakarthikeyan's Madharaasi and Varsha Bharath's Bad Girl at the box office.