Shreyas K Manju plays a carefree guy in ‘Padde Huli’

Shreyas says that his stint in theatre helped him crack tough scenes.

It is not always that the sons of well-known producers and directors insist on learning the ropes before making their debut in the film industry. But Shreyas K Manju, son of Kannada producer K Manju, not only completed his acting course in a film school but also worked in theatre for a bit before taking the plunge.

With his debut film ‘Padde Huli’ just released, Shreyas says that his acting course and stint in theatre helped him juggle the character with three shades that he plays in the film. “I play a happy-go-lucky character who wishes to pursue a career of his choice but doesn’t really have the support of his parents. Despite stiff resistance, he goes ahead and works towards accomplishing his dream,” Shreyas tells Metrolife.

The actor essays three shades in the film, “It was not very difficult for me to portray these three shades. The scenes weren’t easy and did well to test my acting skills,” he adds.

The young actor shares the goodwill and wishes of senior actors in the Kannada film industry. “Ravichandran sir has acted in the film. At first, I was scared to talk to him but I began to get more comfortable after he gave me the confidence and support. I learnt a lot just being around him,” adds Shreyas. He has also found mentors in actors Yash, Radhika Pandit and Sudeep. In fact, Sudeep sent a video, wishing the young star good luck with his debut film.

The actor feels that the Kannada film industry is going through a transition of sorts. “Everybody is talented and I realised that I am competing with the best in the industry. Thanks to technology, people get to access and watch all kinds of films. Instead of thinking about what others are doing, it is best to give a good performance and leave the rest to the judgement of the audience,” says Shreyas.

The actor has not signed anything new. He wishes to wait for the feedback of ‘Paddehuli’ and then decide the future course of action.