'Most Eligible Bachelor' is all set to hit the screens this Friday (October 15). In this interview, catch Akhil Akkineni talk about his character Harsha, what it was like doing romantic scenes, the theme of the Bommarillu Baskar directorial, teaming up with Allu Aravind, whether 'Agent' is hitting the screens anytime soon and more.

We heard that you were reluctant to do this movie because it's a love story. What made you have a rethink?

Love stories have a familiar template and I was not interested in doing one at this point in time. This is what I conveyed to (presenter) Allu Aravind garu when he told me about the offer. At that point in time, I was not aware of the nature of the story and the fact that Baskar is the director.

So, what is it about 'MEB' that really got you onboard?

The film has a love story and it also offers solutions to the specific problems that arise in relationships. That way, it has got a relevant message. Whether it is between lovers or married couples, relationship issues are par for the course. 'MEB' touches upon those issues.

You have been in a relationship in the past. To what extent did the scenes in the movie appeal to you?

The situations in the film are relatable. It is not just about the problems in the relationship between Harsha (Akhil's name in the movie) and Vibha (Pooja Hegde) but also about how they deal with them.

How was it working with Pooja Hegde? In a recent interview, you said that she has exceeded your expectations.

She has worked hard and got the lines right despite being a non-Telugu. Vibha is a stand-up comic and her language is spicy. The spicy language, at the same time, is not in your face. You don't squirm in your seat even if you are watching this movie with a female sibling or parent.

Your father, Akkineni Nagarjuna, involves himself in your choices. What was his say when the offer came to you? And what did he tell you after watching the movie? Has your mother watched 'MEB'?

My dad gave some inputs on listening to the story. He also watched it recently and really enjoyed the hilarity. He feels that an entertainer like this is what I needed. As for my mother, she is yet to watch the movie.

In 'Mr. Majnu', your character had a certain arc. How different is Harsha's arc in 'MEB'?

'MEB' traces Harsha's journey from a boy to a man. Like many, he is confused in the beginning. At the same time, he is also a bit naive. Eventually, he grows into an adult who is confident. It is the story that made me take a plunge.

It was in 2006 that director Baskar debuted and scored his first hit. This is 2021. How updated is his treatment style?

He is quite up to date. Nowhere does 'MEB' feel outdated. The emotions are relatable and the scenes will definitely strike the right chord with the audience. The dialogues are refreshing. I would say that 'MEB' is a futuristic family entertainer as well.

You have mentioned that Pooja's character spices up things with her language. Do you think the audience must be prepared to face such a character?

Of course, the film needs the audience to be forward-looking. That said, you can watch our movie with your family, as there is no room for vulgarity anywhere.

The trailer shows that you attend a lot of match-making events. How are the scenes going to be like?

As per the story, I have to find a suitable match while I am on a visit to India. We shot for about eight match-making scenes, but not all of them have made it to the final edit version.

You have said that 'MEB' has got a message. Is it organic? What does it tell the audience? Also, there is a bedroom moment in the movie. Was it hard to shoot for it?

Romance is deemed to be all about physical contact. But 'MEB' says that romance can take various forms. It is in that sense I say that 'MEB' is more than a love story. As for participating in romantic scenes, it's definitely not easy when scores of people are present on set. I had the right ambience and could pull it off despite my inherent shyness.

Luckily, theatres are now operating at full capacity in Andhra Pradesh starting from Dasara. It helps your film. Isn't it?

I am very happy about the government's decision. I see it as a good omen that I received the news just as I was coming out of a temple in Vijayawada.

'Agent', directed by Surender Reddy, is being made on a massive scale. When is it likely to hit the screens?

It is too early to talk about the release date. I can say that it's definitely not coming out this year.