Varun Tej: ‘Korean Kanakaraju Is a Non-Stop Entertainer; I Wanted Audiences to Laugh for Two and a Half Hours’

Mega Prince Varun Tej is all set to entertain audiences with his much-awaited horror-comedy Korean Kanakaraju, directed by Merlapaka Gandhi. Produced jointly by UV Creations and First Frame Entertainment, the supernatural entertainer is gearing up for a grand worldwide release on August 7. With premieres being held across the Telugu states on August 6 and advance bookings witnessing an exceptional response, the film has generated tremendous buzz ahead of its release.

Speaking to the media before the film’s release, Varun Tej opened up about what attracted him to the project, his transformation for the role, working with Satya, learning the Rayalaseema dialect and Korean mannerisms, and his upcoming projects.

‘The Entertainment Factor Made Me Say Yes’

Varun Tej revealed that the biggest reason he accepted Korean Kanakaraju was its entertainment quotient.

“The moment Merlapaka Gandhi narrated the story, I couldn’t stop laughing. Whenever I hear a script, I imagine myself as an audience member sitting in a theatre. Over the last few years, especially after COVID, I have done several serious and action-oriented films. I always wanted to do a wholesome entertainer where audiences could relax and laugh for two and a half hours. That’s exactly why I chose Korean Kanakaraju.”

‘Tall Heroes Can Do Comedy Too’

Responding to the belief that actors with a larger-than-life image don’t suit comedy, Varun dismissed the notion.

“An actor should explore every genre. There’s a misconception that tall heroes shouldn’t do comedy. I don’t agree with that. If the character is written well, comedy works beautifully. This film has the perfect mix of humour and action.”

Confident Ahead of Release

With premiere shows sold out and extra shows being added, Varun said the team is entering release day with confidence.

“We completed shooting quite early and had ample time for post-production. Everyone—from director Gandhi to Ritika Nayak and Satya—promoted the film like it was their own. The teaser and trailer connected with audiences, and the response is now reflecting in the advance bookings.”

‘Promotions Should Match the Film’s Content’

Varun appreciated the innovative promotional campaign designed for the film.

“Today, promotions have to be fresh and should reflect the film’s content. Some people felt we revealed too much in the trailer, but our intention was to prepare audiences for the kind of entertainer this is. We wanted them to know they’re coming for a complete fun ride.”

His Chemistry with Satya

The actor shared that his chemistry with comedian Satya will be one of the film’s biggest highlights.

“This is our third film together, and we share great bonding. Satya is not just a comedian—he’s an excellent actor. We worked extensively on our Rayalaseema dialect and comic timing because our characters are central to the story. I believe audiences will thoroughly enjoy our combination.”

Learning Korean and Transforming Into Kanakaraju

Varun said he enjoys learning something new with every film.

“That’s one of the reasons I became an actor. Every role allows me to live as a different person. I always try to disappear into the character.”

He also spoke about preparing for the Korean-inspired look.

“We carefully designed the character. We wanted the hairstyle to look authentically Korean, so I even coloured my hair for the first time. Initially, it felt unusual, but when we visited Korea, I saw many people sporting similar hairstyles.”

A Challenging Dual Role

The actor described the film as one of the most satisfying experiences of his career because of its dual-role format.

“Playing two completely different characters with distinct body language and personalities was a huge challenge. As an actor, it gave me immense satisfaction.”

He also credited director Merlapaka Gandhi for helping him master the Rayalaseema dialect.

“Since Gandhi grew up in Rayalaseema, the dialect came naturally to him. For me, it was completely new, so I spent considerable time practising it.”

No Connection with ‘OG’

Addressing comparisons between Korean Kanakaraju and OG, Varun clarified that the similarities end with the East Asian flavour.

“OG has a Japanese backdrop, so some people might have drawn comparisons after watching our trailer. But the two films are completely different and have no connection whatsoever.”

Thaman’s Music Is a Major Strength

Varun praised composer S. Thaman, saying the music plays a crucial role in elevating the film.

“The transformation from a mass Rayalaseema character to someone influenced by Korean culture had to be reflected musically. Thaman understood that challenge perfectly. His background score is outstanding and will provide a terrific theatrical experience.”

Praise for Ritika Nayak and the Producers

Varun appreciated leading lady Ritika Nayak for her dedication.

“Ritika is a hardworking actress and has supported the film wholeheartedly during promotions. This role suits her perfectly.”

He also thanked producers Rajeev Reddy and Vamsi of UV Creations.

“After Kanche and Antariksham, this is my third film with them. They are passionate producers who never compromised on quality and gave us everything we needed.”

Balancing Work and Family

The actor also spoke about fatherhood and maintaining a work-life balance.

“After my son was born, I spent a lot of time at home because I wasn’t shooting. During filming, I naturally miss my family. Whenever I’m free, I prefer spending time and travelling with them. Maintaining a balance between work and family is very important.”

‘Bhari’ to Feature Naga Babu

Varun also shared an update on his upcoming sports drama Bhari.

“The film is currently in pre-production. It’s based on volleyball, a sport I’ve played since childhood. My father, Naga Babu garu, is playing an important role in the film. I’ve always wanted to act alongside him, and Bhari is finally making that happen.”

‘A Tight, Non-Stop Fun Ride’

Signing off, Varun expressed confidence that audiences will have a memorable theatrical experience.

“Korean Kanakaraju is a non-stop entertainer packed with humour. It has a very tight screenplay and is designed to keep audiences laughing throughout. The overseas response has already been fantastic, and we’re thrilled with the love the film is receiving. I’m confident audiences everywhere will enjoy it.”

With strong advance bookings, positive buzz, and Varun Tej promising a complete entertainer, Korean Kanakaraju heads into release with high expectations and hopes of delivering one of the biggest crowd-pleasers of the season.