At the recent event organised by Telugu Digital Media Federation (DMF) in Hyderabad, Telugu superstars Chiranjeevi and Vijay Deverakonda exchanged notes on stardom and how they have still maintained their middle class values. Chiranjeevi recounted a moment of humiliation he faced on a film set during his early days in the industry, highlighting the pivotal role it played in shaping his determination to become a star. He also advised Vijay to keep his ‘attitude alive,’ even calling it his asset.
During the discussion, Chiranjeevi recounted a moment of humiliation on set that fueled his determination to become a superstar. He said, “I was working with prominent actors like Jagayya and Sarada, apart from numerous junior artists. I was yelled at on set one day. ‘Do you think you’re a superstar?’ they asked me. I felt humiliated, it wasn’t okay I was talked to like that.”
He added, “However, that was the day I decided I would become a superstar. I used the incident to fuel my ambition. Only I know how hard I’ve worked to be here today.”
Talking about how his cinematic journey began, Chiranjeevi recalled that it was a chance encounter. “I only accompanied my friend Sudhakar, who wanted to refuse a role in Punadhirallu. I was then asked whether I wanted to do it. I was unsure as I was still studying at the Madras Film Institute. However, they convinced me and I dropped out.”
The Telugu superstar said that was the first time he faced the camera. “That film was the first time I stood in front of the camera, with my new name (he was named Sivasankara Varaprasad at birth), in Rajahmundry. Before I wrapped up that film, I got to act in Pranam Khareedu. Then, Bapu roped me in for Mana Voori Pandavulu, and Balachander casted me. It’s thanks to the almighty, that I was bound to be here.”
Speaking about their past, Vijay admitted that he was a little scared while shooting his earlier films like Yevade Subramanyam. He said, “When I see Yevade Subramanyam or Pelli Choopulu clips, I remember how scared I was. I now know I had no reason to be that worried. I watch Arjun Reddy; I remember how young and rash I was.”
Chiranjeevi praised Vijay’s resilience and encouraged him to maintain his distinctive attitude. He recalled the time he first saw the actor during the promotions of Arjun Reddy. “I loved how you looked; never let that go. Keep the attitude alive also, it’s your asset, it’s important to know your strengths. That’s what kept me successful all these years,” he said.
Vijay talked about his middle-class values and said, “My life has changed a lot, but in my head, I’m still that middle class boy. I still have the habit of putting water when the shampoo bottle is almost empty so I make the most of it before throwing it away.”
Chiranjeevi identified with Vijay and explained how he does the same thing with soap. “I combine pieces of little soap to use it for another week instead of throwing it away. My family habitually wastes electricity, and I go around switching off lights. (Ram) Charan recently went to Bangkok without switching off their lights, I did it for them. I am also particular about conserving water,” he said.
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