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Fuelled By Humiliation
During an event organised by the Telugu u Digital Media Federation (DMF) on Sunday, Chiranjeevi revealed how he once faced humiliation when he was an aspiring actor. “I was working with prominent actors like Jagayya and Sarada, apart from numerous junior artists. I was yelled at on set one day. ‘Do you think you’re a superstar?’ they asked me. I felt humiliated, it wasn’t okay I was talked to like that,” he said. However, instead of bogging him down, this humiliating episode only escalated his hunger for success. “ That was the day I decided I would become a superstar. I used the incident to fuel my ambition. Only I know how hard I’ve worked to be here today,” he told the ‘Arjun Reddy’ actor.
The star also revealed how he a chance encounter led him to bag his first acting credit. “I only accompanied my friend Sudhakar, who wanted to refuse a role in Punadhirallu. I was then asked whether I wanted to do it. I was unsure as I was still studying at the Madras Film Institute. However, they convinced me and I dropped out.” He further added, “That film was the first time I stood in front of the camera, with my new name (he was named Sivasankara Varaprasad at birth), in Rajahmundry. Before I wrapped up that film, I got to act in Pranam Khareedu. Then, Bapu roped me in for Mana Voori Pandavulu, and Balachander cast me. It’s thanks to the almighty, that I was bound to be here.”
Middle Class At Heart
Today, both of the actors are considered icons of their generation, and their films and public appearances cause mass hysteria. But being raised middle class has left its mark on both of their psyche. Deverakonda revealed that he still clings to some old habits. “My life has changed a lot, but in my head, I’m still that middle-class boy. I still have the habit of putting water when the shampoo bottle is almost empty so I make the most of it before throwing it away..” said the ‘Arjun Reddy’ actor. Chiranjeevi also seconded the sentiment. He revealed that to this day, he is still particular about conserving water and reducing electricity wastage. “I combine pieces of little soap to use it for another week instead of throwing it away. My family habitually wastes electricity, and I go around switching off lights. (Ram) Charan recently went to Bangkok without switching off their lights, I did it for them. I am also particular about conserving water..” revealed the star.
On the work front, Deverakonda is busy promoting his upcoming release, ‘The Family Star’. Directed by Parasuram, the movie also stars Mrunal Thakur.
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