At the Little Hearts success celebrations on Thursday night, Vijay Deverakonda turned the spotlight away from himself and onto the team of newcomers behind the blockbuster. Speaking as chief guest, the actor reflected on his own struggles and emphasised why it matters to recognise films made by outsiders.
“After becoming an actor, I realised why it is important to celebrate the success of outsiders,” Vijay said, “Today, this bunch of boys and a few girls made a film without any background or support. It feels great and we must appreciate it.”
The actor went on to add that such victories inspire others: “Looking at Mouli today, more people will get a hope that they can become an actor and they can also try their luck. It will bring more people to the film industry. Looking at Mouli’s success today, I feel very special. It feels personal too.”
Vijay also had advice for lead actor Mouli Tanuj Prasanth in an indirect reference to producer Bandla Ganesh’s sensational speech at the same event, “Don’t take anyone’s advice too seriously. Don’t try to live like someone else. Just stay grounded and continue being Mouli.”
In a lighter moment, Deverakonda recalled how he once promoted Yevade Subrahmanyam in borrowed costumes because he couldn’t afford new clothes. Linking it to the present, he explained why he gifted outfits to Mouli and director Sai Marthand. “When I saw Mouli wearing Rwdy, I gifted him some. Marthand has been buying and wearing them to every event. I wondered how many he would buy because I know what it’s like when you’re starting out, you can’t always afford it. Later, I realised they’re happily earning enough on Instagram,” he laughed.
The anecdote drew smiles, especially as Mouli was spotted at the event in a maroon Rowdy shirt.
Directed by debutant Sai Marthand, Little Hearts stars Mouli Tanuj Prasanth and Shivani Nagaram, alongside Rajeev Kanakala and Anitha Chowdary. Made on a shoestring budget of Rs 2.5 crore, the romantic comedy has grossed over Rs 33 crores worldwide, as per Sacnilk.
