Pawan Kalyan was in London last month to attend a United Kingdom Telugu Association (UKTA) cultural event as the chief guest. During his visit there, he sat down for an informal chat with the organizers, hosts, and others. Here is the transcript of what he spoke with them.
Amazing artistes:
"It's easy to organize events or anything for that matter to promote cinema. But it's not an ordinary thing to showcase neglected art forms in this way. My sisters used to learn Bharatanatyam. As an adolescent, I would overhear them talking about the classical dance forms, including Kuchupudi. They used to talk about Kuchupudi more. I was thrilled today watching live a Yakshagana and a Dasavatharam Mahishasuramardhini (Kuchupudi) performance. It's amazing how these artistes have been carrying on the legacy across generations.
Knowledge of art:
As a youngster, I did learn Carnatic music somewhat. So, I know the hardships of learning an art form.
When they are doing so much to keep the art forms (be it folk or classical) alive, it's our responsibility to encourage them. I know how difficult it must have been for the Telugu people living over here (in Lodon) to come together to promote the art forms. It's because I have kept interest in art since I was a child that I talk about art in my movies. My dad was transferred from one place to another as a part of his job. That's how I got to know something about the art forms in regions like Rayalaseema and Telangana. It's every Telugu's responsibility to promote art.
It's important not to forget our roots wherever we may go.
Acting means Chiranjeevi:
To me, acting was Chiranjeevi garu. I grew up watching him on the screen. I was never interested in acting. As a child, I used to question myself, "Who am I?" Maybe, that's why I wanted to become a yogi. After 'Suswagatham', I went to Kurnool (to inaugurate the statue of Mother Teresa). I was like, 'Who would turn up to see me?' To my surprise, a large crowd turned up to catch a glimpse of me. I was blank. It occurred to me that God creates some people to perform and others to appreciate the performance. Nothing more than that. I always introspect, whatever I am doing.
If not an actor, I might have become a yogi or a farmer. Farming increases ones respect for Nature. My dad was a constable, my grandfather a postman. It was a festival-kinda occasion when we went to the town to watch a movie. Those were the days when I could never have imagined that I would become an actor. Annayya dreamt of becoming an actor, broke his back to become what he is. That's why I have a lot of respect for him. I would have quit acting if three films had become successful after 'Khushi'. I can't be an actor every day. I am not a professional actor".
