Ahead of the theatrical release of 'Pushpaka Vimanam' on November 12, actor Anand Deverakonda says that many actors were apprehensive to play the lead role that he eventually played. It's because the male protagonist in the movie is a husband whose wife elopes. Produced by Vijay Deverakonda, the comedy thriller is releasing amid high expectations.

In his latest interview, the budding actor talks about playing an unconventional role, working with talented actors, and more.

The lead man is so unlike what we see in romantic comedies. How was it like playing Sundar, a government school teacher and a distressed husband?

Writer-director Damodara has been a friend of Vijay (Deverakonda). He also shares his creative thoughts with my father. After he wrote the story, he narrated it to quite a few actors, who were either undecided or were too reluctant to play the role of a husband. When the offer came my way at my father's behest, I didn't take the plunge without my share of reservations about my aptness. A look test was carried out and the director felt that I fit the bill. This is not a romantic comedy but a comedy thriller.

We hear that acting workshops were held before the movie was taken to the floors. How was it working with an ensemble cast?

Geeth Saini has played my wife. She elopes within a week after her wedding with Sundar (Anand's name in the movie). Even so, the amount of screen time that she gets is major. Aside from her, Saanve Megghana has got a nice role. She is lively and unlike Sundar's measured demeanour. Sunil anna has played a suspicious cop. VK Naresh garu has played the school headmaster at the place where I work.

From the trailer, it appears that the film is purely entertainment-oriented. Is it true?

Besides comedy, there is a thrilling element as well. And the movie delivers a message subtly. It's related to marriage. As you would have realized by watching the trailer, Sundar is a sore loser. He is no hero material. A film like this has to have dramatic elements. It's not a full-on slapstick comedy, after all.

The OTT success of your movie 'Middle Class Melodies' has changed things for you. What has it been like after the failure of your first movie?

My debut movie 'Dorasaani' was neither an art-house outing nor was it a commercial entertainer. That's why it didn't work in theatres, nor could it have made a name for itself in the digital space. When I accepted to play the role of a small businessman who opens a tiffin centre in 'Middle Class Melodies', five to ten people in the industry suggested that it was a risky choice. The movie was more than a guy setting up a tiffin centre. I am glad that it worked with viewers. The film gave me confidence. I pick my films and my brother doesn't interfere.

What are your upcoming movies?

I am doing a road thriller under the direction of KV Guhan sir. I am committed to working with (writer-director-producer) Sai Rajesh and a new director. I will be seen as an auto driver in an upcoming movie.