On April 29, Nandamuri Tarak Ratna faces a litmus test. Back as a villain in the stylish flick Raja Cheyyi Vesthe, Tarak Ratna says that he accepted the role on being prodded by his wife and Sai Korrapati. In this interview, the Nandi Award-winning Amaravathi villain talks about RCV, working with Nara Rohit, and more.

What was your first reaction when told that yours is a villainous role in Raja Cheyyi Vesthe?

When director Pradeep told me the story, he was very clear about the character. I liked the character. But I was in a dilemma whether I should do a negative role or not. But when Sai Korrapati garu called me up and told me that it will be good if I did the role, I wanted to do it. My wife, too, had a similar opinion.

You are doing a negative role many years after Amaravathi. How is your character like in Raja Cheyyi Vesthe?

It's a very powerful character. He is very stubborn and won't listen to any come what may. We have seen villains who do comedy. We have seen villains who kill those who come in their way. But here is a villain who is very different. There is good and there is bad in every individual. He is much the same. In short, this villain will be appreciated by the audience.

You received Nandi Award for your role in Amaravathi. Are you hoping for the award this time?

Ravi Babu told me even while shooting that I will win Nandi. That became true, eventually. If I won the award for that role, the credit must go to Ravi Babu. My character, dress, looks - everything is different in Raja Cheyyi Vesthe. But instead of me talking about winning an award, it would be apt if the audience say that after the film's release.

Who was selected first: you or Nara Rohit?

My selection happened first. Sai Korrapati garu later felt that Nara Rohit would be apt for the hero's role. I am very happy to have worked with a family hero. Sai garu used to guide us throughout.

How was it working with Rohit?

Rohit really worked very hard for the film. At times, he wouldn't sleep for three or four days. I got to get close with him. So, it was great.

So, will you continue to do negative roles?

If my character is good. I want to do a hero, too. Without getting restricted to one type of roles, I want to be a versatile actor.

Although you have done many films, you haven't got a break. Are you unhappy?

Life is like a speed-breaker. Ups and downs are common. I believe in time. I have complete faith that my time will come. Without that faith, I wouldn't have been in the industry for so many years. So, there is faith, but not dissatisfaction.

What do you think went wrong?

It was a mistake to do many films in the initial years. I am waiting for good stories and thus, fewer films.

Do your family members give you suggestions regarding what kind of films you should do?

Whenever I need advice, I seek it from Babai. But it's me who takes the call.

Are there any differences between you and other actors from your family?

No. Whenever we find time, Kalyan Ram, NTR, and me do spend time together. Everybody is busy with their works. That's why we don't get to meet often.

Are you planning to start a production house?

Yes, I have plans to start a production house. But there is time for it. I want to establish myself as an actor first. I may start a production house three or so years later.

How have things changed after marriage?

There is no change as such. But my wife advises me about the roles I should do and the cautions I should take and so on.

Is it true that you are doing a role in Gautamiputra Satakarni?

No, it's not confirmed as yet. But I am ready to do even a small role that just comes and disappears. I would feel great doing that.

What is your next project?

Evaru, a suspense thriller, under the direction of Ramana Selva. The release date will be announced post the release of Raja Cheyyi Vesthe.