Always in Action – Thala Ajith Exclusive Interview

Ajith Kumar whose Arrambam is set for a Diwali release gets talking to Nikhil Raghavan about being a director’s actor, his upcoming production Veeram and his passion for racing, flying and photography

Billa (2007) was a landmark film for Ajith Kumar — a film that brought together director Vishnuvardhan and Ajith. The duo, during the making of the film, made up their minds to come together again sometime soon. Meanwhile, Vishnuvardhan got busy with his own projects and Ajith completed director Venkat Prabhu’s Mankatha, another huge hit, and Billa 2. The two have joined forces again and the result: Arrambam, a movie slated for a grand Diwali release. Ajith is busy with director Siva’s Veeram getting ready for an early 2014 release. Excerpts from an interview with the actor:

How would you describe your roles in Arrambam and Veeram?

The best part of both films is the diversity of roles. In Arrambam, my character is very stylish, on the lines of Billa and Mankatha. I play a mean guy —imagine a politically incorrect character. As with all A. M. Rathnam films, there will be a strong social message. Some of the issues dealt with are universal in nature.

As for Veeram, I play a rustic character, attired in a dhoti most of the time. I have enjoyed doing this action-oriented role; I think the last time I did such a role was in Attagasam.

What is the one thing that you look for in a role?

I consider myself a professional actor, paid to do the job — to enact the role as conceived by the director. Fortunately, in most of the films I have done so far, the scripts carried roles that suited me. I have progressed from youthful, romantic roles to action and now more mature ones. I do believe in the bound script but it doesn’t always happen. Sometimes you have to trust a director’s capability. I look for compatibility with the producer as well as the director. At the end of the day, we are all here to give our best and for me, there should be job satisfaction.

Are you a director’s actor? How much do you contribute to a film or a role?

I am driven by the director’s vision. As an actor, I do offer suggestions. I think if we use our talent to improvise within the area of acting, without infringing on the director’s creativity, it proves beneficial to the film. When there are no egos to tackle on the set, it makes life wonderful.

What has given you satisfaction — playing a romantic hero, an action hero or an actor with negative shades?

I have done my share of romantic films in my youth. I have grown older and insist that I will only play roles that suit my present looks, salt and pepper hair included. Luckily, Mankatha and Billa 2 came along. Now, in Arrambam and Veeram, the trend continues. Remember, doing characters with a slight negative shade does not take away the romance and fight out of you! I try to do roles I am comfortable with. Work is a motivation for me, irrespective of the character I play.

Health and fitness issues have plagued you in recent times. Despite the risks involved, why do you prefer to do most of the stunts yourself?

Accidents and injuries are part of this profession — call them occupational hazards. Thankfully, I have had good doctors who have helped me recover fast. Health and fitness are issues for anyone in any vocation. As for stunts, to an extent, we have to do them ourselves to lend them authenticity. Of course, there are professional stuntmen who are paid to do sequences and we as actors have always respected them. Many a time, they have come to our rescue too. Today’s audiences are very discerning and can spot a badly done stunt scene with doubles. So we have to give them their money’s worth when they come to watch our films.

Your love for speed and safe driving skills is a curious combination.

I have been both a bike and car racer since I was 18. I love speed but with caution. Having raced in India and abroad under internationally renowned drivers, I have learnt the art and the need to adopt safe driving practices. Today, when I ride my superbikes even on the road, I ensure I wear a helmet, gloves, boots and, on long drives, an overall. I plan to launch a website that will be updated with lots of advice, guidance and videos taken during my road trips on my two superbikes – BMW and Aprilia.

Issues related to society, environment… which is closest to your heart?

I believe if you are an honest taxpayer, that itself is a huge contribution to society. It’s the responsibility of the various government departments to use the taxpayers’ money for the benefit of society and the environment. I do my best for my family and personal staff. We co-exist — as much as they depend on me for their livelihood, my family and I depend on them too. I would not like to publicise my philanthropic activities.

Besides acting, you’re passionate about flying, aero-modelling and photography.

Due to several reasons, I couldn’t acquire a private pilot licence. I did the next best thing — aero-modelling. I have a collection of model aircraft which I fly from a private airstrip near Chennai. Post Arrambam and Veeram, I plan to undergo a long-pending surgery to repair a torn ligament in my leg. After this, I will go abroad on a six-month vacation to not just recuperate but also to indulge in aero-modelling at one of the leading centres. Photography is a passion and I think I have an eye for the unusual. I do not do this for any commercial reason, though.

Source: The Hindu Newspaper published on 05-10-2013

Sun Music Rewind : Thala Ajith Interview 14-04-2013

‘I’M NOT POLITICALLY AMBITIOUS’ - Ajith Kumar’s Exclusive Interview to Times of India

…says actor Ajith, as he gets talking about his latest hit, the audience reaction and his future plans

Lata Srinivasan

His 50th film Mankatha has had an opening like none other this year. Whether it’s the salt-and-pepper look or playing the suited baddie, Ajith has carried it off with élan. Here, he opens up about the film, politics and more…

Did you expect the film to do as well as it has?

When I first heard the synopsis of Mankatha, it was a one liner. Post Vaalee, I hadn’t done a character with negative shade and I asked Venkat if he had any scripts. The moment I mentioned it, there was pin-drop silence at the other end of the line. He told me a line and I said it sounds interesting and I don’t mind doing it. I knew the film would do well but I didn’t expect this kind of a success; not even in my wildest dreams.

Do you think it’s because it’s your 50th film?

It’s got to do with a lot of factors. Venkat Prabhu is in tune with the youngsters of today. For instance, his dialogues are something the youth can relate to. Plus, it’s my 50th film. The star cast of the film — Arjun, Trisha, Lakshmi Rai, Anjali and the boys — was also a factor. The day of release was important — very rarely do you have five days in a row of holidays. Another reason why it worked was it was all about money; people could relate to this as money is so important today.

Casting Arjun…

I personally called him and asked him if he’d like to play this role. He said that he definitely wants to be a part of it, especially because it was my 50th film. When I was watching the film, I wasn’t even worried about what the public would think. I was more worried what Mr Arjun would think! Venkat and I were conscious that we never let him down.

Have you seen the movie with the audience?

No, I haven’t. The last film that I saw in a theatre was Ullasam in 1997. I have never been to a theatre after that. I am scared — scared because if it doesn’t do well, it will be hard to take. I am also scared that if it does really well, it would go to my head. I don’t want either of those reactions. In fact, Mankatha is the first movie that my daughter Anoushka has seen on-screen!

Are you happy with the saltand-pepper look? Women loved it…

Thank you (smiles). May be after Billa 2, I will retain my salt-and-pepper look for all my films. I will start choosing scripts that suit my age post that.

There are rumours of you signing a movie with Vishuvardhan, Vijay and Vikram Kumar…

We have a lot of great directors, but I don’t know who will be available post Billa 2. Vishnu is one director I look forward to working with again. I’d like to work with Venkat Prabhu again, but I don’t want him to feel obligated to cast me. Hopefully, in the next few weeks, there’ll be an announcement.

You recently disbanded your fan clubs. Any regrets?

This has nothing to do with the industry or the culture. This is something that I wanted to do, especially with the nexus between politics and the industry being so strong. I am aware that fans of mine come from different walks of life. And I want my fans to do well, but they need to understand that there is life beyond movies. This is entertainment, don’t take it too seriously. As an individual, you have every right to express your political preference. As fans, be united and come and watch my film. I received a lot of support when I took this decision. I’m very grateful to my fans that they accepted my decision and understood why I did it. With social networking, you are free to express yourself and I will take it as constructive criticism. You don’t need an organization to be a fan. If you love me, say a prayer for me.

Politics and entertainment are intertwined…

I’m not politically ambitious or politically motivated. I believe there are two kinds of people — those who want to get directly involved and those who ask ‘what can I do as an individual?’ I belong to the latter category. I work hard, pay my taxes, do charity within my capabilities and exercise my vote. If every individual fulfills his obligations or commitments, I think the world will be a better place.

Source: Times of India (Dated: 13-9-2011)

Tamil Industry Expect Mankatha - Behindwoods

Source: Behindwoods and Youtube.com

Mankatha turning point of my career - Ajith exclusive interview

Source: Kungumam Weekly magazine 05-09-2011 and starajith.com

“Ajith’s 500 Crore Dream” - Kungumam

Source: Kungumam Weekly magazine (22-Aug-2011) and ajithfans.com

Ajith's Penchant For Grey

Source: Bangalore Mirror (Dated: 15-8-2011)

I know my enemies - Ajith open talk

Source: Kumudham 27-July-2011 and Ajithfans.com

I m not Confused - Ajithkumar

‘I’M NOT CONFUSED’
…says Ajith, stating that issues relating to Mankatha’s release in Tamil Nadu will be sorted out soon
Srinivasa Ramanujam


His upcoming flick Mankatha is described as ‘a Venkat Prabhu game’. And, the current film he’s shooting for — Billa 2 — will be a sort of game for actor Ajith as well. A game he’s played before, and won. Known to be an actor who speaks up for issues close to his heart, Thala — as he’s fondly referred to by his fans — opens up to Chennai Times in a freewheeling chat about his films, the change of guard in the state and more.

• How has Mankatha shaped up?
Going by the post production reports, I’m feeling positive and upbeat about the project.

• How did you arrive on the salt-and-pepper look in the film and how do you expect audiences to react to it?
After hearing the story, it was a unanimous decision by everyone concerned with the project that I retain my natural look. As far as audience reaction is concerned, it’s up to them to answer once they have watched the movie.

• Would you say that Mankatha is a fitting 50th film for your fans? What are its highlights?
Yes, it is my 50th film and it’s a proud moment in my life. Firstly, the film has a good star cast and great music by Yuvan. It boasts of a promising director like Venkat Prabhu and has some very well-choreographed action sequences. Last, but not the least, the presence of Arjun in the film is a big advantage.

• Are you in a state of confusion with regard to Mankatha’s release now that there is a change in government and that the film is produced by Dhayanidhi Alagiri?
I’m not at all confused. I’m a professional and have fulfilled my professional obligations. The film’s producer, Dhayanidhi Alagiri, has conducted himself in a very professional manner. I’m sure he will sort out the issues relating to the release of the film. I’m not worried about the change in government; it’s the troublemakers within the industry I’m worried about.

• How do you see the new rule by Jayalalithaa in the state and its repercussions on the film industry?
As a common man, apart from our basic rights, law and order is of primary concern. I’m sure those matters are being looked into by the new rule. I strongly believe that there’ll be no political interferences as far as the film industry is concerned.

• How is Billa 2 shaping up and are you doing anything specific for your look in the film?
We’re into the second week of filming Billa 2. As on date, all is well and proceeding smoothly. It’s too early to divulge any other details about my role or the film.

• There have been instances in the last few months of you taking to the bike again; you took Venkat Prabhu on a bike ride and rode to Tirupathi with Chakri Toleti. How much of a biker are you?
I’m still very much a biker at heart. But, it’s practically impossible to indulge in it. It is only during moments like filming that I enjoy such luxuries.

• What next after Billa 2?
I don’t know what’ll happen post Billa 2. I’ll leave the future to destiny. 

Quiz Ajith if he’s missing director Vishnuvardhan, who helmed Billa, and he says, “The success of Billa was a team effort. As and when time permits, I’m sure that Vishnu and I will work again. 

CHAKRI TOLETI On his new director for Billa 2, the actor says, “I’m amazed at Chakri’s talent and am sure that he has it in him to live up to the expectations of fans and film buffs.”

Source: Times of India, 27-July-2011

Rasigargalukaga Vaaruven Ajith athiradi

Source: Kumudam (Dated: 6-7-2011)

Kumudham Ajith Interview: Yellamae Maarum

Thanks to starajith.com

Venkat Prabhu interview about MANKATHA

Kumudham this week(05-08-2010): 'Mangatha' Ajithin adutha adhiradi

Source: Kumudham

‘I have survived a difficult journey’ - Ajith Interview

Actor Ajith, who has completed over 15 years in Tamil cinema and is all set to roll out his golden jubilee film later next month, has categorically stated that he is here to stay and here to act. These assurances from the actor’s lips may sound clichéd. But for his die-hard fans and devoted followers, the words carry greater significance. For till now, the actor has been precariously juggling his film career with his passion for motor sports.

It was inevitable that one of the two had to take a beating. His recent releases got a drubbing at the box office. Since the actor had found the lure of the race track hard to resist, it meant that he could do just one film a year. But now sources close to the actor say, “He has made his intentions clear. Now that he has decided to stay away from car racing, the actor is planning to do movies one after another and work with the who’s who of Kollywood, which would also serve his avowed purpose of encouraging fresh talent.”

This may have been prompted by the fact that though his recent films were made on a lavish budget and featured the best technicians, the desired results could not be accomplished at the turnstiles.

But now that Ajith’s back to films with full focus and no distractions, his admirers are confident that his run of flops will stop.

The actor is just as optimistic. Looking back at his journey in tinsel town he says, “I am in my 50th film. As I glance back, I see the journey as a difficult one. To have survived in such a volatile industry is no easy task. I have been walking a tightrope.”

The actor acknowledges that it has been the support and encouragement from his die-hard fans that has kept him going. They have always given his films grand openings, which were often the envy of many of his contemporaries in the industry.

Having set his priorities, Ajith is showing that he means business. He will soon commence shooting for Mangaatha (present title) to be directed by Venkat Prabhu, which co-stars him with Nagarjuna.

Impressed after watching Madarasapattinam, Ajith, who worked with director Vijay in Kireedom earlier, readily agreed to do a movie with him early next year.

In addition to all this, the actor is ready to team up with director Vishnuvardhan once again to do a sequel to Billa. The movie, inspired by the Rajinikanth cult classic was a milestone in the actor’s career. Ajith has also committed to doing a film with Gautham Vasudev Menon.

Sources close to the actor say that he is keen to repay his fans for their loyal support and patronage by giving them some outstanding entertainment.

Having firmly set his priorities, the actor continues to scout for creative filmmakers to ensure that his attempt to revive his flagging box-office fortunes, clicks in a big way. “I am here to stay. Ready and eager to run the extra mile!” he says with a determined lilt in his voice.

Source: Deccan Chronicle 29-July-2010

Venkat Prabhu- Mr.Nice Guy

There was a time in Venkat Prabhu’s career when things looked bleak and he seemed to be walking a very stony path. It wasn’t so long ago that he and his family went through some very bad times financially and he felt that nothing was stable.

“When I returned home to India after eight years in the UK I decided to star in my father’s film Pooncholai. Unfortunately,  that film did not even release and I began to sense that others were loosing faith in me and that I was beginning to be considered unlucky,” he recalls.“It wasn’t until after I got married that I started to take my responsibilities seriously. I even started a band and played at weddings and functions to make ends meet and tried to launch a film magazine, which again did not take off.“My father started a television company which was a flop and we actually lost our houses,” he reveals. “I came to know a lot about life and all it’s ups and downs. I worked on all sorts of projects and took acting roles as second-lead and even worked in Tamil TV serials.“I tried all kinds of things and for me the turning point was a video project that I did for a company in Singapore. This got the notice of some people and when I asked SP Charan to produce and Yuvan Shankar Raja to do the music for what was to become Chennai 28, they immediately supported me.”Since then, Venkat Prabhu has earned a name for himself as a cutting-edge film maker who has his finger on the pulse of ‘Generation Next’ with hit films such as Goa and Saroja.“When I was at school I really wanted to become a singer and then later, I guess because of my strong interest in films, I decided to try to become a film maker,” he reflects. “I even looked into studying at the British Film Institute but it was way too expensive and after lengthy discussions with my father, I realised that direction is not necessarily something you needed to be formally trained in.“A lot of people don’t realise this about the film-world but if you can manage your people and your budgets carefully, you have won half the battle. Thankfully, people always had the confidence in me even when I wasn’t too sure of myself. People have always believed in me.” …. That’s probably because you seem like such a nice guy I thought to myself and isn’t it great when one meets an exception to the rule that nice-guys always finish last.

Source: Express Buzz 17-July-2010

Ajith: I had a perfect race this time

Indian Actor-Racer Ajith Kumar had an eventful Race 1 at Monza for the Round 5 of the F2 Championship on May 22. Qualifying at P20 out of 21 drivers, Ajith Kumar completed the race in 14th position with his personal best lap time of 1:46.500.

Says Ajith, "I feel proud and privileged to race amongst some of the best drivers in the championship, especially our own country's Armaan Ebrahim and Parthiva Sureshwaran. I am thrilled to be racing on this excellent circuit in Monza, Italy and am happy that I have completed the race in 14th Position. I hope to do better in Round 6 which will happen tomorrow (May 23)."

In Race 2 on May 23, Ajith Kumar started at P20 and finished the race at 15th place with a personal best lap time of 1:46.211. Says Ajith, "I had a perfect race this time without getting involved in any incidents. I maintained my pace throughout the race and managed to not get lapped. At the end of this weekend, I can say that the overall exercise was very productive and I am confident of doing much better in the forthcoming rounds."

Courtesy : Motorsports India

“First Car, First Choice” - Ajith’s Exclusive Interview

I believe all of us have two choices in life — to exist or to live. I chose the latter, says actor Ajith on his return to racing in this interview with Ashok Venugopal

A right hand to capatalise on their popularity by signing a dozen odd films or join some political party or at the best become a restaurateur, actor Ajith Kumar comes as a breath of fresh air. He neither believes in the rat race nor does he want to follow the ‘accepted’ path that most actors of his ilk do. He wants to pursue his first love that is motor sports. Having touched 40, Ajith has realised it is either now or never for him as a racer. So he has resisted signing some lucrative movie deals and has in fact postponed shooting for his 50th film just to pursue his passion for cars.

Seven years ago he was part of the Formula BMW Asia tour and although the actor managed two podium finishes his sabbatical from films hampered his movie career. But with hard-work and excellent choice of scripts and under dedicated directors he once again bounced back into the limelight to the delight of his fans who affectionately call him ‘thala’ (leader).

Today, with renewed vigour and determination Ajith wants to make a mark as a racer like he has as an actor. “I’ve come back with renewed vigour as I feel the time is ripe to encourage the youth of India to take to this sport. With three Indians in F2, I feel there is a lot of encouragement and camaraderie amongst (the drivers),” he says.

“Definitely I am better prepared this time. Just to be in F2, which is a step away from F1, gives a lot of self-confidence.” Listing the support he has received from within the racing world, Ajith thanks them for their encouragement: Jonathan Palmer (a former Formula One driver whose company co-ordinates and operates the new FIA F2 Championship), Piers Hunisett (a former successful racecar driver who handles Ajith’s racing programme/career), James Gornal (the official F2 driver co-ordinator, who provides all the competitors with necessary information), Simon Melluish and Sam Tremayne (the duo that, on behalf of F2, handle all the media releases/ Driver Photo shoots etc.) The actor insists that he is serious about racing and from the way Indians are revelling in motor sports he does not like the word ‘hobby’ attached to it anymore.

Ajith, from being a lover boy has matured as an actor and has done with equitable ease comedies and action films. He shared an excellent chemistry with the Simrans and Jyothikas and has held his own against Nayanthara and Sameera Reddys who are years younger to him.

Likewise Ajith believes he can match the likes of fellow Indian F2 drivers Armaan Ebrahim and Parthiva Sureshwaren, if not better them. He believes life not about just winning but enjoying and following what the heart tells you. “It is a combination of various factors. Upbringing, circumstances, experiences, fatherhood and others around you bring in a lot of maturity and confidence. I believe that all of us have two choices in live I chose the latter,” life -to exist or to live. latter” says the Billa star.

Ajith has fond memories of his first stint as a racer and cherishes his two podium finishes at British F3 2004 Scholarship Class. Likewise he believes his best effort in his movie career is the 1999 film `Valee’ because that film gave him recognition and he is glad he did the project.

Ajith believes he is improving with every race in his first F2 season and finds the entire package thrilling. “Most of the circuits are very demanding of both the driver and car. But, it makes the races more exciting. The cars are very powerful and close to F1 specifications. For my build, I feel the F2 cars are better suited than the F3 I have driven earlier,” says Ajith, who will next be seen at Monza, Italy . “The emphasis is to provide every driver an even playing platform to showcase his driving abilities. The Williams JPH1B F2 car was designed by the Williams F1 team and features ground effect aerodynamics and a sophisticated composite survival cell complying with the 2005 F1 safety regulations,” adds Ajith.

On whether the season has gone as expected, he said, “With three rounds already over, I have got quite used to the car. My agenda for the first few races was to finish, which I did. From the forthcoming rounds onwards it will be time to get better qualifying and finish positions.” As for his goal in his debut F2 season, he said, “My realistic goal is to try and complete every race. I will drive to the best of my abilities and as I progress into the various rounds, I hope to score some points this season. Therefore, I am working hard at understanding the car as well as learning the various tracks.” Passionate as he is about racing, does he fear his second stint at the paddock would affect his career as an actor? “I have decided to act in just one film a year. My 50th film will start when the current racing season is over. Therefore, my career as an actor will not get affected by my racing.

Motor racing is a parallel career option I am seriously pursuing. My family, friends and fans are a tremendous support,” says Ajith firmly.

He has great regard for friend and guide Narain Karthikeyan and shares the ace driver’s fitness trainer Ramji Srinivasan. Ajith is keen to improve the health of motor sports in India and has spoken to the Tamil Nadu Government to give more importance for motor sports.

“The day is not far,” he says, “when three Indians will be in F1.”

Source: The New Indian Express 23rd May 2010

Racing Mania: Ajith interview to TOI

By SRINIVASA RAMANUJAM

Ajith has been experiencing a radically different life in the past few months. For, it’s been quite a while since the actor has been busy facing the camera! Instead, he’s been on the racing track, enjoying every minute with the machines that he loves so much. This year, Ajith will not be in town to celebrate his birthday much to the disappointment of his fans. CT got talking to the actor to gauge his passion for the sport and life beyond the camera a few hours before he left for the F-2 races in Morocco.

• Back on the track after a long time… how are you getting used to the machines?

Everything is going as planned. It’s a learning phase for me now, as I’m getting used to my car and its speed and setup. When it comes to racing, the more time you put in, the more you benefit. That’s exactly what I’m doing at the moment.

• Has your passion for racing increased?

Well, it’s always been there. I believe that there’s a time for everything. And, everything happens for a reason. I hate it when people say that racing is my hobby. It isn’t. It’s much more than that.

• But some people say that you’re not good enough as a racer…

I’ve come back to racing after six years; you obviously cannot expect a podium finish so soon! The least I can do is participate and give my best while racing. I could have easily given 200 days of my life to a producer and made money, but I’ve learnt that life isn’t about winning or losing; it’s about following your heart and living your dreams. I’m hoping that my participation will promote the sport and for that, I’m looking for like-minded people to collaborate with. Now that the cricket craze has died down post the IPL, I hope people will come forward to promote motorsport too. A sponsor, I feel, needs to have an emotional connect with the team and the racer.

• What plans do you have for your birthday and what’s your message to fans?

I’ll be racing in Morocco on my birthday. I just want to tell my fans to live their lives to the fullest. Pursue what your heart tells you and don’t be worried about failure.

SHALINI AND ANUSHKA MUST BE MISSING YOU ON THE HOME FRONT…

YES, THEY ARE. MY DAUGHTER IS VERY YOUNG AND SHE’S NOT USED TO SEEING ME DISAPPEAR FROM HOME FOR SO LONG. I’M TRYING TO MAKE SURE THAT I COME HOME BETWEEN RACES, EVEN IF IT IS JUST FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS. AND, ON THOSE DAYS, I ALWAYS SPEND TIME PLAYING WITH ANUSHKA.

WHEN IS THE GAUTHAM MENON FILM HAPPENING?

I’M IN TOUCH WITH GAUTHAM AND THE PRODUCER. IT’S GOING TO BE MUCH MORE THAN JUST MY 50TH FILM; WE’RE LOOKING AT MAKING A MOVIE THAT’LL BE A WIN-WIN FOR EVERYONE. I’M PLANNING TO SHOOT ONLY ONE FILM PER YEAR AND GIVE THE AUDIENCE A QUALITY PRODUCT. GAUTHAM AND I WILL START SHOOTING FROM OCTOBER. SO, TILL THEN, IT’S GOING TO BE MOTORSPORT.

Source: Times of India (Dated: 30-4-2010)

Ananda Vikatan:cinema vendam Arasiyaluku Varatta- Ajith

 

 

Source: Ananda vikatan
Courtesy:Ajithfans.Com