Dream debut for Vasanth Ravi

The actor didn’t think he’d ever be a hero, let alone get to make a debut in a Ram film
Dream debut for Vasanth Ravi

When Vasanth Ravi returned to Chennai from Manchester where he did his Master’s, he had no idea he would shortly go on to debut in Ram’s film. “I met Ram through a mutual friend. The idea of Taramani came to him during a train journey. When he asked if I wanted to act in the film, I immediately agreed,” he says. But unknown to Ram, Vasanth had always wanted to become an actor. He had trained in Anupam Kher’s film institute, Actor Prepares, and Rajiv Menon’s Mindscreen.

For his character in Taramani, Vasanth has had to alter his looks. “I have grown a beard for a year. I’ve also grown my hair long. I still retain that look because if I go clean-shaven, I’m worried people won’t be able to recognise me,” he says. According to Vasanth, Taramani is a “beautiful love story” that Tamil cinema hasn’t seen so far.  “It’s about human emotions and complex situations. I play a guy who works in a call centre. The story is about his life and how he transforms. The film is a wonderful commentary on the male-female relationship and how it has changed in the age of globalisation,” he says.

Vasanth recalls his first shot. “It was taken on Kelambakkam Road. I had to get fully drenched. Though I had undertaken acting lessons, being in front of the camera was quite a challenge. I was awkward, but gradually, I got the hang of it. Ram sir really made me feel comfortable,” he says.

On the adult certificate issued to the film, he won’t say much but points out that they have explained their position in the poster, and the recent teaser.

He says he really liked the script. “Ram’s female characters are very strong. He and I have always believed that women are stronger than men, and are superior. There’s nothing wrong in admitting it,” he says.

Vasanth doesn’t shirk from retakes. “It’s important to redo scenes as long as is necessary to get the shot right,” he says. The actor, despite being the lead in this film, says he’s open to doing all types of roles. “I just want a good film.” He has been listening to scripts, but hasn’t signed any new projects yet. “I am waiting for the release of Taramani, to see if audiences like me. Once I see that, I’ll be able to decide my next,” he says.

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