Ahead of the release of 'Vijetha' on July 12, debutant hero Kalyaan Dhev says that he had no doubts about doing the film once his father-in-law Chiranjeevi okayed it. In this interview, he talks about his interests, beliefs about cinema and more.

How did this film happen to you?

I was looking after family business before entering cinema. After completing Engineering, I tried my luck with Bollywood out of sheer interest for movies. As for 'Vijetha', it happened a week after I completed training under Sathyanand garu. We all loved the story. That's how the journey of my first movie started. I have not thought about what all I want to do in the industry. As of now, I am excitedly waiting for the release of 'Vijetha'.

The script was first given the nod by Megastar. Did you go only by his judgement?

'Vijetha' is the first story that I ever heard as a male lead. It did occur to me that I might have to listen to other stories since this is my first movie and I have to be careful. But with uncle (Chiranjeevi) liking the story, I had no second thoughts. He asked me to do the project immediately. He has watched the rushes and is very happy with the output. He is yet to watch the entire film.

Did he make any suggestions regarding the script? Do you seek advice from Ram Charan?

It was uncle who advised that Murali Sharma should be selected for the father's role. He didn't give any other suggestion. I had no prior experience in films. I went by Chiranjeevi garu's advice. We all know how much experienced he is in films. I had no second thoughts once he okayed the project. Ram Charan garu hasn't listened to the script. But he has discussed the film with uncle. I do go to him when faced with doubts.

What is your character like in the movie?

It's the story of a happy-go-lucky and irresponsible Engineering graduate. The film portrays the thinking of this guy and his father in a sensible way. It's not like the story is novel. But the presentation is very fresh. The film has no similarities with my uncle's 'Vijetha'.

How was it to face the camera for the first time?

I did feel nervous for the first five days. It took time for me to feel comfortable. My seniors helped me achieve comfort. My director Rakesh Sashi, too, had tips for me. I overcame my fear in a week's time. I am also thankful to Vaaraahi banner for the support they have given me. Sai Korrapati garu has given me more than what I expected. He never compromised on quality.

Weren't you apprehensive about choosing the title of a Chiru film?

One has to think twice before remixing Chiranjeevi garu's songs or titles. For this movie, we had thought of another title. But we finally went with 'Vijetha' as it's the most appropriate. There were apprehensions that fans might have high expectations from the movie because of the title.

What kind of films do you want to do in future?

I want to do films that mirror reality. I would like to try all genres. I would be ever ready to stretch myself as per the demands of the story. Any actor has to show something new. Only then will the audience love him. I had a muscular body before 'Vijetha'. But since my director asked me to tone down, I had to follow his instruction. I always go by the script. Story is the soul of a film.

Does Sreeja give you adivce?

Sreeja is not a movie-lover. That always surprises me. But she supports my dreams. She has appreciated my performance in 'Vijetha'.

What about your future movies?

I am listening to a few stories. I am listening to stories also from people who approach me via Facebook.