Actor Samir Kochhar is all geared up for his Tamil releases. He will soon be seen in Prabhu Deva’s ‘Charlie Chaplin 2’ and Amala Paul’s ‘Adho Andha Paravai Pola’. It is his first time working in the southern film industry. He has been the face of Indian Premier League (IPL) for a decade. Recently, he was appreciated for his performance in ‘Sacred Games’. Samir spoke to Malini Raghu about his foray into Tamil films and more.
How was it to be a part of ‘Sacred Games’ and working with Anurag Kashyap?
It was fantastic. The show had a huge impact. I really enjoyed it and I am looking forward to Season 2 which is commencing soon.
Transition from television to web series...
The platform an actor works for is not really under one’s control. A web series is shot like a film at one go, and television serials go on indefinitely. The digital space is loaded with so much creativity. It delivers edgier content and is watched by a lot of people. But, television dramas won’t go away. I enjoy working in both.
Is the regional film industry different from working in Bollywood?
It is just that the South’s cinemas are loved so much by people there. The actors and directors are huge stars, and people wait for their movies to come out. A movie is made to suit every kind of audience; it is really interesting. They work quickly with a timeline and are very professional.
Any plans of doing a Kannada movie?
If I am offered one, then why not!
How was it working with Prabhu Deva?
I looked at him and started humming the song ‘Urvashi...’ He is very humble and quite shy. He is very thorough with his work, and also subtly cracks a few jokes. I have so much to learn from him. Prabhu is fond of cricket, and we used to chat about that.
On working with Amala Paul...
Amala is a mountain child. She is enjoying shooting for the film in the mountains. She does so many other interesting things apart from cinema. I connected with her on different levels sharing a lot about life. We had a good time shooting.
Any interesting moments on the sets?
I enjoyed the process and gave it my all. ‘Adho Andha Paravai Pola’ had a lot of action. We ended up hitting each other while doing the action sequences. I wouldn’t call it funny, but it was amusing.
What are your other interests?
I spend my time with my children. I love to travel and working out. I am also an avid video gamer and hooked to my PlayStation 4. I like to read as well.
What’s in the pipeline?
Currently, I am prepping for Season 2 of ‘Sacred Games’, and I have also signed a Bollywood film.”
