Bharath Srinivas shot to fame in Telugu with the 2004 film 'Premisthe', which was released as 'Kaadhal' in Tamil. While he could have easily cashed in on the success of that film and the popularity that 'Yuvasena' fetched him, Bharath allotted his time to Kollywood and Mollywood. In his 20-year-long career, Bharath has done about 50 movies, most of them in Tamil and 13 in Malayalam.

With 'Hunt', which is slated to hit the screens on January 26, Bharath attempts to endear himself to the Telugu audience with a straight Telugu film. After the Tamil film 'Kaalidas' (2019), he is once again playing an IPS officer here. 'Hunt', starring Sudheer Babu as the main lead, has Bharath as the hero's best buddy.

In this interview, Bharath talks about the film and other aspects of his career at length.

Why have you not been doing Telugu movies in good numbers despite a great start in 2003?

It has been a long while since I did a Telugu film. Kollywood has been my first priority. In Tamil, I have played lead roles continuously. Since I worked with Mahesh Babu in 'SPYder', I was offered character roles in Telugu later. But hero roles didn't come my way. That's why I didn't do Telugu movies. I am happy with what I have been doing, for all the hits and misses. I have always enjoyed my journey, which is the most important thing. As an actor, I am very happy with the variety on the platter.

I rely on a couple of friends for advice. I don't approach too many people. That lesson was learnt only a couple of years ago. If it says right in my mind, I go for it.

What made you take up 'Hunt'?

The script of 'Hunt' inspired confidence in me. The story is good. Bhavya Creations is a good banner. Sudheer Babu has been a CCL buddy. Three important characters are at the centre of the story. Director Mahesh Surapaneni watched my 2019 film 'Kaalidas' and felt that I can play a cop's role well. The thrills are going to engage the audience. All three of us in the film are cops. But Srikanth Meka sir doesn't get to participate in action scenes. I and Sudheer have done action. Themes like friendship and elements like touching emotions are rich in the movie. Incidentally, I am also sentimental about my look in the film. The look bears a strong resemblance to how I looked in 'Kaalidas' (Tamil).

How was it working with Sudheer Babu?

It's not a cat-and-mouse chase between my character and his. They both win over a crime. My character is subtle, while Sudheer's role is aggressive. It is his character that drives the mould of action. Sudheer is a silent-going person. He is a man to himself. It is not easy to read his mind. It's not easy to understand what he is thinking looking at his face. He knows what he is doing. We both vibe each other so well in terms of fitness. He is a wonderful person to work with. Everyone has a positive aura about this film. A sequel will be automatic if 'Hunt' becomes a hit. It's a fresh script and is not a remake or adaptation.

How do you see Tollywood?

I don't see any difference between different industries. Actors have their own markets. Tollywood has witnessed phenomenal changes in terms of scale and thought processes. Content made in Telugu and Tamil has been wanted for remakes in Hindi. The larger-than-life films, the dances, the commercial elements in Tollywood have reached a higher level with films like 'RRR'. In the recent past, films like 'Pushpa', 'KGF' and 'Kantara' have made Southern cinema the prime force.

After doing so many roles, is there something you regret you have not got to play?

I want to do a full-on comedy film. I have been sought-after for romances, action movies and even dramas. I want to give a spy's role a shot.

Do you watch Telugu movies?

Yes. I admire the work of Rajamouli sir, Trivikram sir, and Sukumar sir. I have followed Sukumar sir's movies since the days of 'Arya'. Among heroes, I really like Allu Arjun. Incidentally, we both started our careers around the same time.

What made you not do the catch-up job in Telugu?

The question didn't arise. I have been too preoccupied with Tamil and that's why I didn't get to think about it. 'Hunt' helps me showcase my talent to the Telugu audience after a long time.

How do you manage to look so young and fit at this age?

I am stress-free. Immersing oneself in the world of cinema takes care of you. I believe in destiny. I don't hanker after anything.