‘Panchatantra is a larger-than-life movie for an aspiring actor’

A chance meeting with director Yogaraj Bhat turned out to be an inspiration for one-film-old actor Vihan. The youngster terms his experience of working on the filmmaker's upcoming film, Panchatantra, as a “larger-than-life” one.

“I started out with Kaal Kg Preethi, and in this, just my second film I get to associate with bigwigs like Yogaraj sir, music director V Harikrishna and singer Vijaya Prakash. For this film, I’ve had to explore elements of romance, fights, dance, and stunts, which is why I consider Panchantantra as a big picture,” he tells CE in a candid moment.

Ahead of the film’s release later this week, here are some tidbits from his experience on the film’s sets. 

Car racing 

"I did a bit of car racing during college. So, when I had to do it for the film, it just required improvisation. I had to work on making it appealing for the screen. For this, I got tips from racers Monish and Chandan." 

Contemporary dance moves

"Even though I had learnt dancing from Shaimak Davar, the contemporary style was new to me. For the film, I had to pick up new skills, which choreographer Imran Sardhariya helped me with." 

From introvert to extrovert

"Working with Yogaraj sir was the best thing that happened to me. He’s a director who allows actors to explore themselves completely. Usually, I tend to be an extrovert, but through the film, I discovered another side of myself." 

Working with senior actors

"The film brings out issues between millennials and elders because of the generation gap. There were scenes that required me to fight with senior actors, including Rangayana Raghu. Even though I knew it was just for the screen, I found it hard to execute. But Rangayana sir made me comfortable. He said that if a scene required me to hold his neck or pull his collar, it was okay. His talk gave me confidence while performing."
 
Learning about various aspects of filmmaking

"Apart from acting, Panchantantra allowed me to experiment as an assistant director. When I wasn’t required to face the camera, Yogaraj sir would encourage me to try my hand at different aspects of filmmaking. That’s when I realised that assistant directors have a tough job. I used to get tired within a couple of hours. I also got to handle cameras, which I have been fascinated with since my childhood. During the shoot, cinematographer Sugnaan Murthy allowed me to operate the cameras."

Driving autos, Mustang and buses

"This is a romantic drama which is set against a racing backdrop, and it required me to drive a Ford Mustang. I had always dreamt of driving autos and caravan buses, and this wish was also fulfilled through this film."