BALA BROKE DOWN IN TEARS AFTER WATCHING THIS PARTICULAR SCENE OF DHRUV’S IN VARMAA: AKASH PREMKUMAR

BW: It’s been on a long wait for you...*

Yes, the film has been in the cans for about 1.5 years now. No one really knew what was going to be the fate of the movie. It was a relief to see the film getting released finally. 

BW: How did you land the role?

I had done Naachiyar review for Behindwoods. Bala team called me after being impressed with the review. The review was trending at number 1. Then there was a process of being selected for the role. At that time, I didn’t know it was the role of the hero’s best friend. Then, once they confirmed, they made me stand next to Dhruv to see how it all came together. 

BW: What has been the bond between the two of you?

In the initial days, I didn’t think of bond or chemistry. The goal was to return from the sets without any major bashing. Dhruv is a very friendly person. We had common friends and social circle.

BW: Post the release of Bala’s version, there has been a lot of trolls and memes...

It's not a problem. But we can’t demean the creator. No one can make a film that will please everyone. We shouldn’t forget that he is a six-time National award winner or has got umpteen international awards. Attacks shouldn’t get personal. He has given life to many actors. 

BW: Can you share any on-spot memorable experiences?

There was this scene where Dhruv and I enter the house to find his dad having passed away. It's not there in any other version than this. There is a scene where Dhruv speaks to his father. Bala sir broke down in tears after watching Dhruv’s performance in it. It was very moving.

For the entire conversation, tune in below:

*Excerpts edited for brevity. The interview has been translated from Tamil to English, and as such is not verbatim.