Tarak Ponnappa: People should recognise the actor in me, and not just my appearance

Tarak Ponnappa, an established actor in the Kannada film industry, is no stranger to Telugu cinema. The actor, recognised for his roles in movies like KGF Chapter 1 and 2, Kotigobba 3, and James, has starred in several Telugu projects, including CSI Sanatan, Vinnaro Bhagyam Vishnu, Katha, and the upcoming films The 100 and Krishnamma. He is now thrilled to have got a big break with Jr NTR’s upcoming film, Devera, directed by Koratala Siva. The actor has already started shooting and completed five days on the sets. Giving us a glimpse of his character, he reveals that he plays an important role with a negative shade.
Reportedly, it was an assistant director of The 100, who recommended him to the NTR-Koratala Siva team. “I play an alpha male, someone who always gets what he wants, which is interesting from a commercial perspective,” he says.

Tarak Ponnappa is overwhelmed to have the opportunity to interact with Jr NTR and work alongside actors like Saif Ali Khan and Jhanvi Kapoor.  He describes Jr NTR as humble with no starry airs. “I am looking forward to conversing with Jr NTR in Kannada, as he is also well-versed in the language,” says Tarak, who also talks about his breakthrough in Telugu. “I have also been offered significant roles in prominent Kannada films, but I wasn’t convinced. However, when it came to this role, it convinced me, and I have the right amount of screen time that I actually need. This character isn’t just a passing role; it offers ample scope for performance. I am confident about how this character will turn out,” says Tarak.
Regarding his Kannada projects, Tarak Ponappa is currently considering scripts and receiving offers for lead roles. “People should recognise the actor in me, not just my physique and appearance, and that’s how I approach choosing my roles,” he says.