In his interaction with the media, NTR opens up his heart. While talking about why he was seen getting emotional in his speech at the audio release function of 'Nannaku Prematho', he elaborates on the subject.

He also takes questions on clash with 'Dictator' and working with Rajamouli.

On his get-up for Nannaku Prematho'

I was afraid after I got it (laughs). But the feedback has been very good. My wife loved it. My mother did not understand it (laughs). As for my son, I had wanted to videograph myself before getting this style for him to be able to recognize me later.

As soon as I had the get-up, from day one, my confidence grew a lot. Audience's response has been overwhelming from the beginning, though some have not found it likeable. All in all, the beard has become something of a brand representing 'Nannaku Prematho'.

On how it all happened

Sukumar had narrated a story line which excited me big time. However, in the meantime, his father became sick and was hospitalized. During the course of tending to him in the hospital, Sukumar's emotions churned out an idea, which he expressed to BVSN Prasad's son. He happened to like it and conveyed to me that Sukumar wanted to drop the current project and instead work on this idea.

I too was thrilled after listening to the idea. You may say there have been some films resembling this concept, but our film is very different from all of those. It's something we can't explain. It's a visual experience.

The last 40 minutes, especially is outstanding.

Nannaku Prematho' is different in every respect. I know you will think it is a routinely used word. But, this film is really, really different. The difference is all over - in dialogues, characterizations, the screenplay, get-ups and all.

On shooting for the climax

It was an intensely emotional experience shooting for the climax. I went through so much emotion that I was literally crying. When I hugged Rajendra Prasad garu, I cried for real. I could not come out of the emotional state for 20 minutes.

Incidentally, it was dad's birthday - September 2. Jagapathi Babu garu, who was on the sets, called up dad and told him I was getting emotional!

On Sukumar

I had been hearing a lot of things about Sukumar before this film happened. I was told that Sukumar comes with 2-3 versions for a scene and that he is always confused as to which version to go with. However, my experience with him has been entirely contrary to all this.

He comes with a lot of clarity. He is very passionate and has a lot of commitment to what he is doing.

The very thought that he was in such an emotional state (after his father's hospitalization) which made him want to dedicate the film to his father, inspired me. This film is not based on a real-life incident, but it is definitely a 'real' film.

On how Nannaku Prematho' has changed his personality

I have calmed down a lot. I have become more focussed. The film has always been personal and close to my heart. It is a kind of film that makes you connect yourself to another's story. Apart from this being my 25th film, it's very important for me because this is a culmination of mine and Sukumar's wish to collaborate for many years.

On the subject of Nannaku Prematho'

It is not a mind game at all. It is a straight game, I would say. It is all a linear narration.

It is all about a tit-for-tat saga.

On Jagapathi Babu

It was not difficult to be comfortable with him. We have been sharing a very good relationship for many years. And despite he being a villain, I did not find it difficult because the film doesn't have words like orey' etc, nor does it have the hero beating up the villain.

When the character was narrated to him, Jagapathi Babu was like How can I do a mean character like this?' (laughs)

On his choice of directors

It is an unjust allegation to make against me that I choose only a director who has had a hit recently. It's totally not true. I don't know who is choosing who. A film is, at the end of the day, a matter of business. When I did Student No. 1 with Rajamouli, he had no hit. Sam with VV Vinayak for Aadi.

I only look for stories that excite me.

On grand releases

The market is fast-changing. Telugu films are having great going in overseas markets as well. There was a time when films would run for more than a year. Films like Lava Kusha ran for one and a half years. Then the longevity fell down to 175 days. Then to 125 days, 100 days, 75 days, 50 days, 25 days, and today a film has to break-even in just 14 days. It has to rake in the maximum in that period.

The industry has three happening seasons

Sankranthi, Summer and Dasara. All big stars are in the race during one or more of these seasons.

So, what is wrong in going for big releases?

On rumours

I think I don't have to respond to rumours for the simple reason that they are just rumours. All the people in my life - my friends, family and relatives - understand me and know who I am. So, why should I lend credence to rumours or questions posed to me on Twitter by responding to them?

On year 2015: The year was a phenomenal one for Tollywood. We saw many films with good content, new approach.

On clash with Babai

I don't think it's a clash between us. I never felt there was ever a clash. I want all films to run well - be it my film, or Babai's film, or Soggade Chinni Nayana'.

On working with Rajamouli again

I have always wished to work with him again. I have always felt that Rajamouli is someone who can be a pan-Asian filmmaker.

On missing out on Oopiri'