Shashank is the latest entry into the Sandalwood film industry. The year 2018 can be termed as special for Shashank as he is debuting in Sandalwood with “Aadi Purana”, which is scheduled for release this week across Karnataka, just a few months after completing his studies in engineering. NewsKarnataka had an exclusive chat with Shashank where he shared some of his experience working on the film.

Debut film

Growing up, Shashank had always wanted to be an artiste. He took part in many plays and is presently learning in a theatre group called Expressions. “My brother is a film producer and has produced two films. While he was working on his second film, I used to visit the sets to learn the technical aspects. Mohan, the director of the film, observed me and asked me to play the lead in “Aadi Purana.” He felt that I was apt for the lead role. When I went through the script, I was impressed with the plot as well as my character. There was no way I could say no to the film,” he said.

Preparations

“Mohan was very particular about the way he wanted the film to be portrayed on the big screen. As most of the lead actors were newcomers, he organised a workshop for them. He worked on the script for almost a year, as he wanted to give a good product,” Shashank said. Speaking about his role and how he had to prepare for it, Shashank said that the director wanted him to put on weight, as he plays the role of a middle-class Brahmin. “I was very lean at that time and had to put on 7 kgs. When all these workshops were going on, I was in the third year of engineering. I had to handle my studies as well as acting. It was very challenging. However, I think it was all worth it. The film is character-based and everyone has done their best,” he said.

Trailer Feedback

Speaking about the success of the trailer, Shashank said, “We have received an excellent response to the trailer from the audience and they have said that it is very promising. The trailer was targeted at the youth which made them feel that they could relate to the film. You can see the comments on social media; they have praised our film’s trailer. The songs have also been well-received.

Debut film subject

“I feel that character-based films are the need of the hour. Content-oriented films will always work here in Karnataka. I was very clear that whenever I debut, it will be with a character-based film. In the whole film, I do not have any build up scenes or dialogues. The film is about how a youngster goes through his daily life. It is very relatable. The character is very soft. Before starting the film, our team did the assessment. We decided that the film will only work if we have good content. We may have a big budget or a big director working on a film, but if the content is not good, there is no use. I am confident of this film doing well.”

Future Films

“I have not signed any film and I am waiting for the release of “Aadi Purana.” I am open to content-oriented films. The more challenging the role is, the happier I would be. I want to do memorable roles. I am open to working with any director or production house, provided the script and character are good.”

Message to audience

“I am sure that the audience will love the film. It is releasing on October 5. It is a family-oriented film. Please do watch the film and inspire youngsters like me to work more.”