- By Ridhi Suri
- Tue, 27 Aug 2024 08:04 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Nani, celebrated for his authentic and versatile performances, is a prominent figure in the Telugu film industry. Known for his relatable roles and strong screen presence, he has earned a loyal fan base through films like Eega, Bhale Bhale Magadivoy, and Jersey. Now, he is preparing for the release of his new film Saripodhaa Sanivaaram. In a recent interview, Nani revealed a significant influence behind his decision to pursue directing: Amitabh Bachchan’s classic film Agneepath.
Speaking to PinkVilla, Nani discussed his career journey and revealed how Agneepath inspired his passion for filmmaking. He said, "Different directors inspired me in different times. Obviously, my biggest inspiration is (Amitabh) Bachchan sir. Agneepath was my big reason of why I wanted to direct a film. I heard the film didn’t do well when it released but I think it redefined heroism. Like how an actor you know can play his role and how the general formula can be twisted to something else to make an absolute compelling story."
The actor also disclosed how Agneepath shaped his early career, revealing that he incorporated a reference to Amitabh Bachchan’s legendary monologue from the film into his first script as an assistant director. The monologue plays on a TV in the background, adding a significant touch to the scene and reflecting the influence Agneepath had on his work. "Even in the first script I have written as an assistant director, which I wanted to make, in the opening titles, there is a sequence that happens outside a tea shop and there is a TV inside and in the TV, the Agneepath scene will be happening. ‘Yahan pe jungle ka kaanoon chalta hai, maalum hai. Choohe ko saanp kha jaati hai, saap ko..’ (Here, the jungle’s rules are obeyed, you know. A snake eats a rat, and the snake..), something. That’s a long monologue. The voice keeps fading out as the title keeps rolling, but in Amitabh Bachchan’s voice. I wanted to start my career like this as a director. So there is a lot of influence," he added.
Nani further shared, "The kind of composure and performance Bachchan sir delivered every single time; You see it could be an average film or a bad film or a blockbuster film, but you know that this man added so much value to it. It’s not like he is doing any floor movements or dances or he is jumping off the buildings. He is just sitting and saying one word that hits your heart. And that’s the power of cinema and acting."
About Agneepath
Amitabh Bachchan’s Agneepath (1990), directed by Mukul S. Anand, unfolds against the gritty backdrop of Mumbai’s criminal underworld. The story centers on Vijay (Bachchan), who witnesses his father's murder at the hands of the merciless gangster Kancha Cheena, played by Danny Denzongpa. As Vijay grows older, he becomes deeply enmeshed in the criminal world, driven by a relentless desire to avenge his father's death and restore his family's honour.