Meet Pattiyal star Bharath
Shankar picked you up for your dancing ability. How did you know you had the talent to act?
I didn't know. I just accepted what came my way. I have not attended any acting class; acting in films was the only experience I got. Probably with Chellame, I knew I had the talent. I feel acting is nothing but reacting to situations. I try to relate to every situation as mine. How would I have reacted if it had happened to me? When you put yourself in the situation, you react naturally. If acting comes from your heart, it will look natural. That is what I feel. Once I read the script, I try and do a lot of homework and involve myself in the character.
You played an uneducated motor mechanic in Kadhal. How difficult was that role?
The character I portrayed was completely different from what I am, and what I did in Chellame. I am a guy who was born and brought up in an urban city like Chennai, while the hero of Kadhal was a village youngster. I had to speak Madurai Tamil, which I had never spoken in my life. That was a very big challenge for me.
In Pattiyal, which is a huge hit, you play a deaf and dumb orphan. Tell us how you prepared for the role.
When I signed Pattiyal, many people asked me why I signed a two- hero film. They assumed it was because I wasn't getting any good offers. I signed Pattiyal because the role really excited me. When Vishnu (the director) told me the story, I decided I was not going to miss the role for any reason.
I went to a deaf and dumb school (Little Flower) 3-4 times, spoke to the children and observed them. I did a lot of preparation. Every day, I used to carry home the next day's scene, read everything and prepare myself well. Sometimes, what happens when you use sign language in a film is the audience may laugh. If that happens, you have failed in your attempt. Audiences should accept you as a deaf and dumb person. I was nervous. Luckily, my character was appreciated by all.
All those who watched the film are raving about your performance in the last 20 minutes…
When Vishnu told me the story, I knew the last 20 minutes were extremely crucial for me as an actor. I had to take the burden of the film on my shoulders. I also knew it was a great opportunity for me to show my talent to the world. I am extremely thankful to Vishnu for believing in me and giving me such a good role.