Kannada star Shiva Rajkumar needs no introduction. With more than 120 films to his credit, the eldest son of the late Rajkumar (thespian of Kannada cinema), spoke to Gulf News tabloid! about his latest film Tagaru, directed by Duniya Suri.
What is ‘Tagaru’ about?
Tagaru is a commercial film with a beautiful message. We often tell our near and dear ones to be careful when they leave home. Tagaru gives a statutory warning on how to move in society.
While this is a gangster versus policeman story, it’s high on emotional content. It’s not a star vehicle but gives importance to every character — even the villains, Daali, Vashista and Cockroach. There is a constable Saroja who appears in few scenes yet leaves an impact. Bhavana has a small role, yet significant. The audience can identify the characters. By giving them symbolic names Suri makes them stand out. His non-linear screenplay is a major strength, his writing is powerful with a tricky narration.
How different is this policeman role from earlier ones?
In my 25-year career, I have played a policeman in films like Inspector Vikram and Shivalinga. But Tagaru’s cop has great attitude — he is stylish and delivers effective punch lines.
I merely followed my director’s instructions.
What are you working on now?
I generally don’t work on remakes but Mohanlal’s Malayalam film Oppom impressed me. I am doing its Kannada remake titled Kavacha and reprising Mr Lal’s role. We have completed 50 per cent of the shooting.
Then there is The Villain, with Sudeep as co-actor — a family action drama about two men who go in search of each other. And Rustum, directed by Ravi Varma.
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Tagaru releases in the UAE on April 26.
