'It was interesting to discover the flirt in me'

Actor Dhananjaya has proved that he is capable of handling just about any character. Having essayed strong and powerful roles in films like ‘Rhaatee’, ‘Boxer’, ‘Director’s Special’ and attempting a very different look in ‘Allama’, Dhananjaya is thrilled that he has been able to play a variety of characters in a short span and achieve success. 

While his project ‘Badmaash’ is complete and slated for an October release, he has signed another project titled ‘Tagaru’ which is directed by Suri and has actor Shivarajkumar playing the lead role. 

While his career is going great guns, the actor also takes time off to read, write and dabble with a bit of theatre in his spare time. In a chat with Nina C George, Dhananjaya talks about what keeps him on his toes. 

What made you accept ‘Tagaru’? 
Acting with Shivarajkumar and being directed by Suri sounded like an exciting proposition. I play a negative role in the project which is pegged on rowdyism. We have worked on the teaser for the film and it looks very interesting but I am not allowed to talk too much about the movie. We have had a stylist work on giving me a look that suits my character in the film. 

What are you looking forward to the most in ‘Badmaash’? 
I sport ten different looks in ‘Badmaash’ and every look has a definite flavour and purpose to it. There’s a mix of romance, comedy and action. It’s a very contemporary subject and people can easily relate to all the situations in the film.
 

Your experience of playing a casanova in ‘Eradane Sala’...
The film is directed by Guruprasad and it was his idea that I play the character of a flirt. It’s a very raw story and people will get to see the mischievous side of me. It was interesting to discover the flirt in me. 

What kind of characters do you like working on?
I enjoy working on characters that are subtle, which is what I have done in some of my previous projects. I was required to portray almost all the looks in ‘Badmaash’ in a loud and exaggerated way which was indeed an interesting experience. You can call me  a director’s actor. 

Are you interested in direction?
I have written a couple of scripts and directed a few plays at the university level when I was in college. The short film, ‘Jayanagar 4th Block’ has been written by me. I want to get into direction someday but it's too early to talk about it right now. I want to work with a few directors and improve my skills before I step into direction.   

Has it been easy to switch from a software professional to an actor? 
It’s not an easy thing but I chose to be an actor because I am passionate about cinema and I am enjoying every moment of it.
 

When you are not acting...
I spend time with my parents in my hometown in Arsikere. My father is a farmer and I feel rejuvenated after a visit to my village. It helps me focus better on my work.