Here are the excerpts of NTR's interview to IBTimes India:
What made you accept "Janatha Garage?" Can you give us a brief idea about its story?
Siva and I have been together since the "Brindavanam" days, and I have always been impressed by his skills. He narrated this story to me two years ago, much before "Srimanthudu." But we couldn't go ahead because of prior commitments. Perhaps "Janatha Garage" was meant to happen now. It is a very emotional story of a family.
How was your experience with Koratala Siva?
Koratala Siva is a director who has immense clarity about what he wants. He knows how to extract the best from his team. There is always a conflict of interest between a writer and a director. A director needs to be able to condense the essence of many pages of a story into a few minutes on screen. It is not easy. Siva is one writer who understands that and he lets the director in him take over when it matters. Siva has been a very close friend over the years.
What about your equation with Mohanlal and Nithya Menen?
Both of them are fantastic actors. Mohanlal sir, in particular, is one of the most complete and satisfied human beings I have ever seen. He is so happy, so content. He is at peace with himself. I asked him how he handles all the stardom and the various roles he handles. He said, "I am happy." I have learnt a lot from him and I am glad to have worked with him.
Nithya is a great actress who can emote well. She was very professional.
"Janatha Garage" is also made in Malayalam. Is this an exercise to expand your market in Kerala? Or is there any relevance for its script in the state?
It was Mohanlal's idea to release the movie in Malayalam. It has been dubbed in Malayalam. It is a story with universal appeal and obviously Mohanlal's presence makes it a logical choice for a release in Kerala. Expansion of Telugu cinema into new markets is always very good.
You have worked with Samantha in three movies. What made you team up with her again? Did you recommend her name or was it the makers' decision?
It was the director's decision. I've been working with her since her debut days and she has become a very good friend. That camaraderie has given us good screen chemistry and it has helped us pull off some really tough scenes with ease.
Devi Sri Prasad has composed many hit audio albums for your movies, "Nannaku Prematho," "Oosaravelli," "Adhurs," "Rakhi" and "Naa Alludu." How is your association with him?
Devi Sri Prasad is a music director, who understands the essence of the story before coming up with the tunes. He has given me a superb album for "Janatha Garage" and I can say with confidence that it is one of the best in my career.
How has Kajal Aggarwal's item song come out?
We would prefer to call it a special song rather than an item song. It is a special number that comes in at an important point in the story and I must thank Kajal for agreeing to be a part of this. She has never appeared in a special number before. She was a great addition to the film.
The story itself is a highlight. It is a story-driven film that chose its actors. Each and every part of the film is crucial and that is what makes "Janatha Garage" so complete.
How was it working with producer Naveen Yerneni, Y Ravi Shankar and CV Mohan?
They are one of the best producers I have worked with. They are friendly and humorous and they are good human beings. They are a good addition to the Telugu Film Industry.
What is your take on Rs. 100 crore Telugu movies club? Do you expect "Janatha Garage" to be part of this?
It is important to make a good film. For good or for bad, we are all addicted to the numbers game now. I personally do not believe in that. But a film should do well and earn profits for all concerned
You have maintained a good relationship with all the Telugu actors, including Pawan Kalyan. The clash between Pawan Kalyan's and your fans is unfortunate. Did you speak to him regarding the issue? What is your advice to the fans?
We have very good relations between all the actors in the Industry. Love your country first. Your family next. Your friends after that. Actors should come last. I believe that my fans will not get into irresponsible behaviour. If they do, then I do not consider them my fans. Films are meant to be enjoyed and that's it.
What are your upcoming projects?
I will take a small break after this movie. I want to spend time with my son Abhay, who is growing up quickly. I will announce my forthcoming projects soon after that.
