Playing the role of ‘Thata’ in Rangasamudra was a refreshing experience: Rangayana Raghu

The veteran actor shares his thoughts on his upcoming film, where he plays a grandparent
Playing the role of ‘Thata’ in Rangasamudra was a refreshing experience: Rangayana Raghu
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Rangayana Raghu, a veteran, who is a master in portraying negative shades, providing comic relief, and pulling off various characters steps into a distinctive role in the upcoming film Rangasamudra directed by Rajkumar Aski. He embraces the joy of being addressed as ‘thata’ by a child on screen for the first and feels it adds a fresh dimension to his illustrious career.

“After having done over 400 films in 30 years of my career, I felt an innocence in me, hearing a child call me ‘thata’ in Rangasamudra. Having been called mama, father, doddappa, so far, ‘thata’ was a fresh role for me, and at my age, it felt right to take on this character,” shares Rangayana Raghu as he discusses Rangasamudra. “The film unfolds a heartwarming camaraderie between a grandfather and his grandson. The latter, aiming to prove himself, challenges the village head to let him drive his grandfather in a car—this is the crux of the story. The film weaves a narrative that not only entertains but also explores the delicate threads of human connections,” he adds.

The film also features Rangayana Raghu in the lead role of a dollu expert in the village, driven by the desire to pass on the tradition to others. Reflecting on the advantage of playing a protagonist, he states, “Being the lead allows you to delve into positive thoughts. Unlike playing a villain, where you enter an imaginary world, or being a comedian, positive roles let me connect with society.”

Reflecting on his diverse roles, Rangayana Raghu credits his connection with theatre and directors like Yogaraj Bhat, Suri, and MS Ramesh for presenting him with varied opportunities. Being part of the principal cast, he notes his early association with Puneeth Rajkumar in over 16 films and mentions films like Cyanide, Modala Sala, and recent films like Kaneyadavara Prakatane and Tagaru Palya, which had him in prominent roles.

Rangayana Raghu also cites his motivation for working with newcomers and values the film’s originality in an era dominated by remakes and inspirations. “A film like Rangasamudra has not been influenced by any other films, and they have made a good attempt,” he commends.

Transitioning from theatre to the big screen, Rangayana Raghu appreciates the dynamic environment. “It is like agriculture; we have to try and test many roles. The audience ultimately decides how they perceive our work, whether it’s enjoyed in the comfort of their homes or the theatre.”

With Hoysala Konanur bankrolling the project, the film also stars Raghavendra Raj Kumar, Sampath Raj, KVR, Divya Gowda, Master Mahendra Prasad, and Master Skanda Thejas. “The narrative of Rangasamudra not only entertains but also explores the delicate threads of human connections,” he says. Currently, Rangayana Raghu has an exciting lineup, including Shaakahari, Moorane Krishnappa, Agnyaathavasi, Krishna Pranaya Sakhi ready for release, while films like Rosy, Powder, and Cheetah are in the shooting phase.

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