EXCLUSIVE: Nani on Amitabh Bachchan: “What all the CGI in Kalki can’t do…”

When asked about his admiration for Amitabh Bachchan, Nani shared, “I see him as an inspiration in so many ways. And I don’t think it’s just me. For a lot of actors, he is a big inspiration. And as far as the Angry Young Man persona goes, it’s only once in a century that an actor with this combination is made. Bachchan sir is someone whom you cannot not like on screen.” 

He further went on to praise his performance in Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD. “In Kalki 2898 AD, you enjoy all the CGI and background score and world-building. But when he comes on screen and says that one word, it hits you straight in the heart. That’s the impact of a great actor. His voice and appearance are the greatest combination possible. And the person he is that even if you don’t know him personally, you know in your heart that you like him. Very few actors can make you feel that way.” 

Recalling an earlier interaction where his Surya’s Saturday co-star S.J. Suryah compared him to the Bollywood icon, he said, “When Suryah Garu compared me to him, I felt like it was the biggest honour you can give an actor. I’ve just been around for 16 years while he’s a legend of cinema. I’m so happy someone said that.”