For the first time since 'Vaadu-Veedu', Vishal will be seen in the role of a villager in a film titled 'Rayudu'. In this interview, the star talks about the film's subject, doing realistic action for the movie, his role as a Nadigar Sangham authority, and more.

What is the subject of 'Rayudu'?

I am playing a village-based loadman in this film. In the Tamil version, I am in the resident of a village near Madurai. To suit the Telugu nativity, I am here a resident of Anantapur district. The film tells the story of rivalry between a local politician and this worker.

You are playing a countryside character after a long time. Isn't it?

I am playing such a character for the first time after 'Pandem Kodi' and 'Vaadu-Veedu'. My body language and diction are totally different. We are releasing the Tamil version (Marudhu) on May 20, and the Telugu version on the 27th.

What are the major highlights?

The stunts are very realistic. I haven't used ropes for the action sequences. Anil Arasu has composed the fights. The fights feel like how they are in real life when ten people engage in physical attacks. The screenplay keeps the audience guessing as to what will happen next. Screenplay and action are the highlights.

It hasn't been possible in your case to simultaneously release a movie in Telugu and Tamil.

It's not happening, contrary to what we plan. I can't kill my film by releasing it in so-and-so number of theatres without concern for the market potential.

How was it working with Sri Divya?

She is a nice human being. She does lot of charity as well. When Chennai was flooded in December last, she donated Rs. 10 lacs. When we were shooting for this movie in a village, she came to know that the villagers had to defecate in the open due to lack of toilet facility. She immediate donated for the construction of toilets. It's also said that she is a lucky charm. Since she has touched me, I am sure I am going to score a hit. (Smiles).

What about Kulappully Leela, the Malayali actress?

She is the hero of the movie; it's not me or Sri Divya who are the heroes. Her character is the soul.

It's election time. Are you supporting any political party?

A few film personalities are contesting elections on some party ticket or the other. I am not taking sides. I will cast my secret ballot on election day. I am only urging the people to use their right to vote. Criticizing the government of the day doesn't make sense if we don't exercise our franchise. For the first time, more than a crore people are utilizing their right to vote. Nadigar Sangham is not supporting any party. We are for awareness about the essentiality of using the right to vote.

Which party do you think will come to power?

The party which people think will do good will come to power. (Smiles).

Why did the elections to the offices of Nadigar Sangham come to become controversial?

When elders who have been there for decades are upstaged by youngsters, the former can't bear with it. But as of now, we are fine. Nobody nurtures any hatred.

And many tried to undermine your chances. Isn't it?

There was propaganda against me. It was said that I am a Telugu. There were attempts to bring me down on the grounds of my other identities. They said everything except saying that I am dark-skinned.

What initiatives have you taken up after coming to power?

Redeeming the debts owed by Nadigar Sangham, taking steps to pay periodic pensions to old artists who are in poverty, constructing a building for the Sangham and so son.

There are plans underway to make a film the proceeds of which will finance Nadigar Sangham's initiatives. Isn't it?

Me and Karthi have planned a movie together. We want to do a commercial entertainer. Jeeva, Jayam Ravi, and Suriya will always be there to do a film along with us.

By the way, when are you tying the knot?

We are constructing a Kalyana Mandap as part of a Nadigar Sangham initiative. It will be inaugurated on Jan 14, 2018. My marriage will be on the next day. (Laughs).

When are you going to wield the megaphone?

I entered the industry with the aim of becoming a director. But I am doing everything except direction. (Smiles). I have been a hero, a producer, the owner of a music company and now a Nadigar Sangham Gen Secretary. If and when I direct a movie, Vijay will be the hero.

There has been a controversy following Bala's announcement of a film based on a novel. Bharathiraja has raked up the issue.

Actually, the film will be based on the novel 'Kutraparambarai'. Anyone can adapt the novel. Nobody has exclusive rights. For example, anyone can make a film on Bhagat Singh's legend.

What are your upcoming projects?

I am doing a movie in Siva's ('Siruthai' fame) direction. We are planning for an Oct 7 release. There is a movie under Mysskin's direction. Rakul Preet Singh is the heroine. I will be producing the movie. Later, the remake of 'Temper' will be made. A period film in Bala's direction is in the offing.