Nikhil Siddhartha interview: ‘I feel energised after Karthikeya 2’s National Award win’

Nikhil Siddhartha, the charismatic star of Telugu cinema, has seen a remarkable journey from his debut in “Happy Days” to becoming one of the most bankable actors in the industry. His recent success, “Karthikeya 2,” has not only won the hearts of audiences but also clinched a National Award, a significant recognition that has elevated both the film and Nikhil’s career to new heights. In this in-depth interview, Nikhil reflects on the journey of making “Karthikeya 2,” the challenges faced, and the renewed energy he feels following the film’s prestigious accolade. “Karthikeya 2” is not just another film in Nikhil’s filmography; it’s a sequel that carried the weight of high expectations, especially after the success of its predecessor. The movie, which blends mythology with a contemporary thriller, required meticulous research, dedication, and a deep understanding of the subject matter. Nikhil shares, “When we decided to make ‘Karthikeya 2,’ we knew that the expectations would be immense. The first part had created a niche audience that was eager to see where the story would go. We wanted to ensure that the sequel lived up to those expectations while also attracting a new audience. The research phase was intense. We delved into various mythological texts and consulted experts to ensure that our portrayal of the legends was both respectful and engaging.” The actor’s commitment to the role was evident in the way he prepared for the film. Nikhil explains how he underwent rigorous training, not just physically, but also mentally, to immerse himself in the character. “Karthikeya is a complex character. He’s not just a hero; he’s a thinker, a believer, and a seeker of truth. To portray him authentically, I had to train in various forms of combat, as well as deepen my understanding of the mythology we were exploring. It was a transformative experience for me as an actor.” No film comes without its set of challenges, and “Karthikeya 2” was no different. From budget constraints to the pressure of meeting deadlines, the team faced numerous hurdles. However, Nikhil believes that these challenges only made the success sweeter. “One of the biggest challenges was shooting in some of the most difficult terrains. We shot in locations that were not easily accessible, and sometimes, the weather would not be in our favor. There were days when we had to halt the shoot because of extreme conditions. But, as a team, we were determined to push through. Each obstacle taught us something new, and it brought us closer as a unit.” The actor also faced personal challenges during the making of the film. “There were moments when I doubted myself, especially when the pressure was high. But I had a fantastic support system in my director, Chandoo Mondeti, and my co-stars. They kept me grounded and motivated. I also spent time meditating and focusing on my mental health, which helped me stay centered.” Winning the National Award was a moment of immense pride for Nikhil and the entire team of “Karthikeya 2.” The recognition not only validated their hard work but also highlighted the film’s significance in Indian cinema. “When I heard the news about the National Award, I was overwhelmed. It’s a moment every actor dreams of, and to see our film being recognized at that level was surreal. It’s not just about the award; it’s about the acknowledgment of the effort and passion that went into making this film.

It’s a reminder that hard work pays off, and it’s motivated me to push my boundaries further. I’m now more driven to take on roles that challenge me as an actor and contribute to the evolution of cinema.” With the success of “Karthikeya 2” and the National Award win, Nikhil is now more selective about his future projects. He believes in the power of storytelling and wants to be a part of films that resonate with audiences on a deeper level. “I’ve always believed that cinema is a powerful medium of expression. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about telling stories that matter. Moving forward, I want to choose scripts that offer something unique and impactful. I’m currently in talks for a few projects, and I’m excited about the possibilities. The focus will be on quality over quantity.” Nikhil also hints at exploring different genres and possibly venturing into production. I’m open to experimenting with new genres, and I’m also considering producing films in the future. It’s a natural progression, and I want to contribute to the industry in more ways than one.” Nikhil’s journey in the film industry has been one of continuous growth, both personally and professionally. He reflects on how the industry has evolved and how he has adapted to the changes. “The industry has changed significantly since I started. The audience today is more discerning, and they expect content that is not just entertaining but also meaningful. As actors, we need to evolve with the times and offer something new. Personally, I’ve grown a lot over the years. I’ve learned to embrace challenges, take risks, and stay true to my craft.” Nikhil also speaks about the importance of staying grounded and connected to his roots. “No matter how much success you achieve, it’s important to remember where you came from. I’m grateful for the love and support I’ve received from my fans and well-wishers. They’ve been with me through thick and thin, and that’s what keeps me going.”