Actor-director Pradeep Ranganathan is - and continues to be - one of the busiest individuals in Kollywood. Despite being at the very beginning of his career, he has already left behind a trail of success and is currently gearing up for multiple releases, including films he has acted in such as Dude and Love Insurance Kompany .
However, what has currently captured the attention of cinema lovers is Pradeep's candid revelations during a conversation with Anupama Chopra for The Hollywood Reporter India.
The humble film personality expressed his excitement over a surreal moment - superstar Rajinikanth imitating Pradeep's famed mannerisms in his recent blockbuster hit Dragon. To have a legend like Rajinikanth replicate what he performed on screen is, for Pradeep, a moment of immense pride.
In the same light-hearted and insightful conversation, Pradeep also reflected on the creative satisfaction he derives from directing, and the joy he experiences while being on set as an actor. Clearly, he is a man fully immersed in - and made for - cinema.
"I still have my old videos on Facebook where I can be seen climbing tall cutouts, pouring milk, and cheering my heart out for Thalaivar," he recollected, referencing his humble beginnings as a fanboy.
Then came perhaps the most exciting moment of the interview: when Anupama asked him about the widely circulated rumour - that he was set to direct a magnum opus gangster drama featuring both Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, reuniting the icons on screen after a gap of 46 years.
Putting an end to the speculation, Pradeep responded clearly:
"No, I am not doing that film."
When pushed further about whether there had at least been discussions regarding the much-hyped project, Pradeep remained vague, offering only a gentle smile and saying:
"I am not doing it because I am focused on acting right now. I can't talk much about it at this point in time."
With that, the young sensation gracefully shut down the rumours, clearing the air.
Meanwhile, Dude and Love Insurance Kompany, the two upcoming films featuring Pradeep, have reportedly avoided a box-office clash. Instead, they will be released back to back with a one-month gap.
Dude, which also stars Mamitha, is slated to release on October 17 as a Diwali release, while Love Insurance Kompany, featuring SJ Suryah and Krithi Shetty in key roles, will follow in November. (With inputs from Agencies)