Praveen Tej plays CBI officer in Kathanayaka

He believes that the character offers a lot of space to perform

Actor Praveen Tej, who was last seen in ‘Mundina Nildana’, is all set for his next project. Having been in the industry for more than a decade, he believes there is a lot more to explore.

He is playing a cop in his latest project ‘Kathanayaka’. In a candid chat with Metrolife, he reveals more.

Tell us more about your latest project.

‘Kathanayaka’ is a suspense thriller. It is based on two timelines around 16 years apart —2005 and 2021.

How did the film happen?

I listened to many scripts but wasn’t convinced by any till now. Debutant director Vinayak Jyothi got in touch with me and narrated the story to me, for about two hours. I saw the hard work and intelligence that has gone into the script. I didn’t want to miss the opportunity and agreed to work in it.

A bit about your role...

I’m playing a CBI officer in the film. I like the character as there is a lot of space to perform.

Do you have to train for the role?

The role does not require a major physical makeover, I just need to be a bit more muscular. Emotionally and mentally, I need to work on the character and its nuances. I’m looking forward to the workshop which is planned.

After ‘Mundina Nildana’, is this the first project you’ve signed?

Yes. My biggest priority is ‘Kathanayaka’. Before ‘Mundina Nildana’, I committed to ‘Hondisi Bareyiri’, shooting of which has been completed, and the post-production work is on. It’s a multi-cast project.

Compared to the earlier pace of projects, you’re taking it a bit slow now. Is this a conscious decision?

Yes, it’s a conscious decision, so that I could put in the best of myself, both physically and mentally to projects I take up. I have realised that if I enjoy the creative process of a film, it surely shows up on the screen.

You’ve been in the industry for more than 10 years. What are the changes you’ve seen in filmmaking, scripts, roles, and actors, over these years?

There are many changes in all the aspects of filmmaking — from budgets to storytelling styles, character building. In addition, the OTT platform has created opportunities for various bold and innovative concepts. Directors and story writers are willing to try out new concepts and work with fresh talent. It is easy to get exposure but not so easy to survive.

For an actor, a lot of focus and hard work is required, while for a technician, a lot of knowledge and experience is needed.

What are the true features an actor needs to be successful?

In addition to hard work, dedication, ability to improvise, and fitness, an actor has to be a keen observer of society and things around him. Many times, these help to portray a character. Also, one needs to draw experiences from personal life that can add flavour to a character one is playing.

What did the pandemic teach you?

To enjoy the present.