Raj Tarun: The gap is a blessing in disguise!

As Raj Tarun gears up for the release of ‘Iddari Lokam Okate’ on December 25, he describes the movie as a full-on romantic drama with no impurities. Directed by GR Krishna, this one is produced by Dil Raju. Raj Tarun feels that the film will give him a respite from the streak of flops. Listen in:

The film’s title, the caption, and the songs suggest that it’s all about love. What can we expect from ‘Iddari Lokam Okate’?

It’s a love story first and foremost. And it’s a love story till the end. You will not find any other genres in the movie. I would say that the film has been adapted well from the Turkish original.  

Since it is a remake, what kind of changes have been made?

Changes to suit Telugu nativity have been made. Apart from that, there are no other changes. The basic storyline is the same. Also, my character and that of the heroine are also the same.

What kind of character have you played in the movie?

He is calm and subtle, totally different from the kind of loud roles I have played so far in my career. Shalini Pandey’s character, too, is subtle. Her performance is brilliant; she doesn’t need glycerin to enact a teary scene. I was surprised by her acting talent.  

What is the major highlight of the movie?

There is entertainment, there is content. Above everything, the last 30 minutes will arrest the audience’s attention. It’s the best segment of the movie. Director GR Krishna is a man of convictions, who has treated my character in a novel well. His story treatment is distinct. 

You seem to be very positive about the movie, especially after a spate of flops.

I think the release date is lucky for me. ‘Uyyala Jampala’ also came on December 25. Incidentally, that too was a Friday.  

How do you see your failures?

A film flops for various reasons. Many have tried to suggest that ‘Lovers’ didn’t shape up as planned. But I won’t get into that zone of analysis. Any film is a team effort. As such, you can’t pinpoint failures on anything. 

What did you do during the sabbatical?

I vacationed and visited several places in North India, etc. I had been planning to travel. It finally happened. Also, I had a ‘mokku’ to make an offering of my hair to Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala. I completed that ‘mokku’. The sabbatical also allowed me to pause and reflect upon my choices.