The highly anticipated Telugu horror thriller, 'Pindam,' directed by Saikiran Daida, is set to captivate audiences worldwide as it hits theaters on December 15. Starring Srikanth Sriram, Kushee Ravi, Srinivas Avasarala, Easwari Rao, and Ravi Varma, among other talented cast members, the film promises a spine-chilling experience.

Produced by Yeshwanth Daggumati and co-produced by Prabu Raja, 'Pindam' boasts a compelling narrative crafted by Saikiran Daida, Kavi Siddhartha, and Toby Osborne.

Srikanth/ Sriram, who takes on the lead role, recently engaged with print and web journalists to discuss his involvement in 'Pindam.' Here are the highlights of the interaction.

How did the opportunity to be a part of 'Pindam' come to you?

'Pindam' came my way after I completed a film called 'Inka Evaru.' Approached with caution when it comes to horror scripts, I've often seen them deviate with unnecessary elements. However, 'Pindam' stood out for staying true to its story, providing a genuine scare element that horror enthusiasts crave. The film explores the idea that where there is negative energy, evil spirits find a home.

What makes you confident about 'Pindam' standing out in the crowded film landscape?

Throughout my career, I've seen films succeed when there is trust in both the story and the lead protagonist. Producer Yeshwanth Daggumati believes in the strength of the narrative and the performance. With recent successes like 'Animal' and 'Hi Nanna,' the audience is receptive to diverse content. I am confident that 'Pindam' will deliver a compelling theatrical experience for horror genre enthusiasts, especially with its unique narrative structure spanning three different time frames: 1920, 1990, and 2023.

Horror films often require distinct facial expressions and body language. Did you approach your role in 'Pindam' differently?

Before stepping onto the sets, I visualize the scenes as an actor. I don't memorize lines; instead, I prefer understanding the scene's essence. This preparation allows me to improvise and connect with the character during the actual performance. 'Pindam' is not just about scares; it's a content-driven film, and I approached my role as Antony, a responsible father, with a unique perspective. The film also highlights the importance of children in driving the narrative forward.

How does 'Pindam' differ from your previous comedy horror film 'Sowkarpettai'?

'Pindam' is a multi-faceted journey involving multiple families and explores the transitions in their lives. It's an emotional drama with a positive undertone, as the title itself signifies something life-affirming. The film delves into societal issues, including the discrimination against girl children, showcasing the challenges faced by families in the past.

Are you concerned about being typecast in the industry, especially after transitioning from lover-boy roles to playing a father in 'Pindam'?

Typecasting is a concern, and I've learned from past mistakes. Now, I prioritize script quality over other considerations. The on-screen lover-boy image is a thing of the past, and as an actor, playing diverse characters like in 'Inka Evaru' and 'Network' is essential to avoid being pigeonholed.

Have you ever encountered a ghost in real life?

I visited a haunted location called Ghost Hunting in Scotland, known for its eerie atmosphere due to a tragic past. Despite paying to experience the paranormal, I left disappointed. The incident reflects the mysterious nature of the supernatural and the uncertainty of encountering it in real life.