Chiranjeevi was last seen in Bholaa Shankar.
Chiranjeevi recalled a turning point in his life when he vowed to become a superstar. The actor also shared a golden advice with Vijay Deverakonda.
During a recent event organized by the Telugu Digital Media Federation (DMF) in Hyderabad, Telugu superstars Chiranjeevi and Vijay Deverakonda engaged in a discussion about their experiences with stardom while still holding onto their middle-class values. Chiranjeevi shared a defining moment of humiliation he faced on a film set early in his career, emphasizing how it fueled his determination to succeed. He advised Vijay to maintain his unique attitude, referring to it as an important asset.
Chiranjeevi reflected on a specific incident on set where he was questioned about his superstar aspirations, which deeply impacted his resolve to become a successful actor. He recounted the experience of working with established actors and junior artists, highlighting the challenges he encountered and how they shaped his path to stardom, “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. However, 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.”
Discussing his own journey, Chiranjeevi mentioned how a chance encounter led to his first role in the film industry. Despite initial hesitations, he embraced the opportunity and gradually progressed in his career through various projects, crediting his hard work and unwavering dedication. He stated, “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 casted me. It’s thanks to the almighty, that I was bound to be here.”
Vijay, on the other hand, shared his earlier apprehensions during the filming of his initial movies and acknowledged his growth and maturity since then, “When I see Yevade Subramanyam or Pelli Choopulu clips, I remember how scared I was. I now know I had no reason to be that worried. I watch Arjun Reddy; I remember how young and rash I was.”
Chiranjeevi commended Vijay’s resilience and urged him to maintain his distinct attitude, ”
I loved how you looked; never let that go. Keep the attitude alive also, it’s your asset, it’s important to know your strengths. That’s what kept me successful all these years,” the superstar exclaimed.
Both actors also touched upon their middle-class upbringing and how it continues to influence their lives. Vijay expressed his grounded nature by sharing simple habits from his past. He revealed, “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.”
Chiranjeevi added, “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,”
Meanwhile, Vijay Deverakonda is currently gearing up for the release of The Family Star which also stars Mrunal Thakur. On the other hand, Chiranjeevi made his acting debut with the 1978 movie Punadhirallu. However, he got his major breakthrough with Sindhooram in 1997. In his career of more than four decades, Chiranjeevi has worked in over 150 feature films in several languages including Telugu, Hindi, Tamil and Kannada. Some of his popular films are – Rudra Veena, Indra, Tagore, Swayam Krushi, Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy, Stalin and Gang Leader.
