From his debut in Kumki to his latest release Irugupatru, Vikram Prabhu has proved to be one of a few actors who are commercially viable Mala Lutchmanan
VIKRAM Prabhu’s latest movie Irugapatru is receiving rave reviews worldwide. The movie is still running to full houses in Chennai.
Vikram, a sought after actor, is the son of actor Prabhu and the grandson of the legendary Sivaji Ganesan. He has proved himself by taking on a variety of roles. From his debut in Kumki to his latest release Irugupatru, Vikram has proved to be one of a few actors who are commercially viable.
Mala Lutchmanan’s (ML) recent interview with Vikram Prabhu (VP):
ML: Congratulations on the success of Irugapatru. Tell me about the movie?
VP: Thank you. The director decided on the title. It means to ‘hold on to tightly.’ It is a title that is appropriate for the movie. When the director told me the story, I accepted to be a part of this movie. I saw this as my duty. And to see the way the public is embracing and celebrating the movie, this makes me very happy and I am glad I accepted the role. Having said that, I must stress that this was a team effort.
ML: You come from a family of superstars, Your dad continues to deliver hits and your grandfather is the legendary Sivaji Ganasen. Was there any pressure on you to deliver?
VP: Initially, there was no pressure but after the release of the movie Kumki, which turned out to be a monster hit, my dad’s fans and grandather’s fans applauded my performance. I was then pressurised to deliver. But the fans were so endearing and accepted me as part of one in their families. They motivated me to give more sterling performances. As a result, I try to do varied and different roles.
ML: You studied abroad (completing an MBA). How were those days?
VP: I studied at San Diego University. It was one of those universities that offered a Master’s in theatre. My initial degree was in engineering. For the Master’s, the university offered courses in film and media. Theatre was not even in the list of courses offered. I attended a few classes and then realised that this was where my passion was and I decided to go with where my passion lay. Studying abroad widened my outlook on life and I am forever indebted to my family for affording me the opportunity.
ML: What is your all time favourite movie and song?
VP: There are a few but my grandfather’s Deiva Magan is my favourite movie. Even if I watch it now, the wonderful screenplay, the emotions expressed and the staging of each character are unmatched. This movie is a timeless piece of art. With regard to the songs, there are too many to cite.
ML: Who is your favourite actor/actress?
VP: My dad, of course. His charm and off and onscreen presence are something I admire. He is a wonderful father and I am a fan of all his works.
ML: What will a day in the life of Vikram Prabhu be like?
VP: I keep my Sundays free for family. I put my phone aside and devote the entire day to my family. I love my work but if one does not balance work and family, all the successful movies one acts in becomes pointless.
ML: You have worked with some of the great names in the industry in the movie Ponniyan Selvan. What was this experience like?
VP: Director Mani Ratnam watched a movie of mine and liked the role I played and invited me to meet with him at his office. I was overjoyed. Here is an ace director, who is offering me a role in his dream project. Shooting for this movie was an amazing experience. I worked alongside my dad. That was priceless. I also worked with Aishwarya Rai. This was on my bucket list. I am glad to have ticked that off my bucket list.
ML: Many thanks for making the time to talk to us. I wish you more success.
VP: My pleasure. I am looking forward to sharing more with our movie goers in South Africa.
Mala Lutchmanan is a presenter/producer at Lotus FM, an ex-educator, PhD student and author. Listen to her on the Best of Kodambakkam on Lotus FM on Sundays between 1pm and 3pm.
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