Ahead of the release of 'Bhrat Ane Nenu' on April 20, Mahesh Babu in this interview talks about the film, whether he is okay to experimenting more in future, his disinterest in politics, imitating his father, and more.  

You are very positive about 'BAN'.  How has the journey been?

I have this feeling that 'BAN' is one of the top three best films in my career.  Even before its release, I can feel blockbuster vibes.  When Koratala Siva garu narrated the script, I found every scene quite exciting.  But the idea of playing the Chief Minister was scary.  It's because I have had nothing to do with politics.  I have learned a lot doing 'BAN'.  But don't construe it as my willingness to enter politics!

Has your perception of politics changed after doing the film?  How could you overcome the initial blues?  

I have come to believe that politics is a big responsibility.  I have gained so much awareness in the last 1.5 years.  The credit goes to the director for writing tight scenes with logic.  He made sure the character is properly designed so that there is no nervousness on my part.  

How did the dialogue-delivery go?  Are there any satires in the movie?  How did you prepare for the role?

The dialogues in the film are difficult to deliver because it's not everyday language.  I had never said such kind of dialogues in my career before 'BAN'.  There are no satires, etc in the movie.  'BAN' is an honest and straightforward movie.  

As for preparation, I only watched Jayadev Galla garu's speeches in the Parliament.  I have not watched the speeches of any Chief Minister or politician.  The idea was to ensure a totally fresh approach.  There were so many scenes that it would have needed a second part.  

The film has been described as a masterpiece by the makers.  When did you start seeing it as one?

Right from Day One, I felt that 'BAN' is a masterpiece.  I was in Chennai when I listened to the theme song.  I experienced great vibes.  Shooting inside the Assembly set for seven days gave another high.  It was carried out like a real Assembly session.  

One of the challenges was to ensure that this political film is also commercial.  How would a CM fight, how would he dance, etc were exciting to explore!  

What does the film teach the citizens?

The biggest takeaway from 'BAN' for the audience would be that citizens have to be responsible.  There are also other issues which the film deals with.  There is a message for everyone, be it politicians or citizens.  At the end of the day, our film is for entertainment.  However, if people get a message and are influenced, that would be great.  I think, after watching 'BAN', the audience will be more interested in politics.  I have realized that the CM post is not about having a convoy, Z category security, etc.  It's a huge responsibility.  

Koratala Siva seems to be inspired by Leftist ideology.  Does the film espouse any ideology?  Do you think our politicians have been doing enough for the country?  Will you campaign for any party next year?

The one ideology our film espouses is that one has to keep his/her promise.  I have learned a lot through Koratala Siva garu.  Politics is no joke.  India is a vast country and our politicians have always been trying to solve its many problems.  As for campaigning in 2019, I will probably be holidaying with my family in Summer 2019!  

Having worked on the movie for 1.5 years, it must have been difficult for to get out of it.  

Yes, it was difficult to disconnect myself from the film.  That's why I went abroad to holiday with my family as soon as I completed the dubbing.  

The film talks about a promise your character makes to your mother.  Coincidentally, it's releasing on your mother Indira Devi's birthday.  How do you see it?

We had to advance BAN's release date after talks with the makers of 'Naa Peru Surya'.  For a week, I didn't realize that April 20 is my mother's birthday until my sister reminded me.  I felt very happy.  What more can I ask for?!  There would have been no better day for the film's release.  It's a blessing.  I remember every word my mother has spoken to me.

The 'Oath of Bharat' actually sounded as if Superstar Krishna was talking!  Isn't it?

Someone actually wondered if it's a digitally-doctored voice in the Oath of Bharat video!  I myself felt that I am sounding like Nanna garu in the Oath video.  I don't have to watch any of Nanna garu's movies to imitate him.  His acting is always there in my subconscious.  I have watched every movie of his.  So, I might sometimes talk like him without my knowledge.  

There is a whole range of costumes that you have used in the movie.  Isn't it?

The costumes depend on the backdrop.  In the beginning of 'BAN', I live abroad and that's why the trendy clothes.  Then I come back to India.  

Why did you choose a new heroine? You have felt that a tall girl like Kiriti Sanon wouldn't go far in Tollywood.  Since Kiara is also tall, would you say the same thing about her?

We roped in Kiara Advani because we didn't want an established heroine to play a CM's girlfriend.  That's how the heroine of 'MS Dhoni' came to be cast.  Kriti Sanon has become very successful in Bollywood.  In any case, Kiara is not too tall.

There was a court case going on related to your movie with Vamshi Paidipally.  Has it been cleared?  Are you OK with experimental films in future?

Everything has been cleared for the shoot.  There are no problems.  As for doing experimental films, I have no patience any longer.  If I do any more experimental movies, my fans might just come and beat me up!  

Do you discuss films when you meet up with your co-stars like NTR?

We discuss everything except movies!

Who is the best CM in your opinion?

Why do you want me to make any controversial statement?