Nagarjuna returns to Bollywood with Brahmastra

'Zakhm was my last full-fledged role in a Hindi film.'
'I remember Alia Bhatt as a child on the set. Now I am working with her in Brahmastra,' Nag tells Subhash K Jha..

While his new Telugu film, directed by newcomer Sriram Adittya, is on the floors, Nagarjuna has flown to Bulgaria for a 10-day shoot of his first Hindi film in 15 years.

"Yes, I am doing Brahmastra," Nag says. "It is my first Hindi film in a very long time. I can't remember the last time I did a Hindi film. I think it was Mahesh Bhatt's Zakhm."

I remind Nag that his last Hindi film was J P Datta's LOC Kargil in 2003, and his memory is nimbly nudged.

"Oh yes, LOC. That was a brief role, though a lot of fun. Zakhm was my last full-fledged role in a Hindi film."

"I remember Alia Bhatt as a child on Bhattsaab's set. Now I am working with her in Brahmastra. How time flies!" he exclaims.

"Except Amitji (Bachchan) with whom I worked in Khuda Gawah, they are all new to me," Nag says. "I am working for the first time with (Producer) Karan Johar, (Director) Ayan Mukerji, Alia and Ranbir Kapoor."

The actor, who has shone in Hindi films like Angaaray, Criminal and Zakhm, sounds surprised at being offered a major Hindi film at this stage of his career.

"My career in Andhra keeps me busy," he says. "I have not shown any inclination to do a Hindi film though I am open to doing films in any language if the set-up is good. Brahmastra was impressive from the moment it came to me."

"I said yes immediately," he says, "and now, I am on my way to shoot for it."

Ask him about his role and he says, "I am not supposed to say much. To be honest, I am not sure of the extent of my role. But it's a pivotal part. They probably thought of me because the role suits my personality."

Ayan is scheduled to shoot high-octane action scenes with Bachchan, Ranbir and Nagarjuna during this Bulgarian schedule.

"Karan will spare no expense to ensure Brahmastra is India's first truly international-calibre superhero film," a source tells me, adding, "After the Bulgarian stint, the film will be shot in London and Mumbai."