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Driven by goals, not girls
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Aren't you tempted to try an image makeover? — Prashanth
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Business came to a brief halt at The Hindu Metroplus Lifestyle Show as `Shock' Prashanth and `Pepsi' Uma walked in for a live Take Two. Shoppers turned frenzied fans armed with pen and paper (shopping list came in handy for an autograph) and the camera chased the star guests! Not to be left behind, the stall owners too joined the fray with "please, visit my stall" requests. Papa's boy Prashanth (his conversation sounded more like a thanksgiving to father) seems to be the star of all seasons. The affable actor may not be having a new film release every other Friday, but looks like he is never out of his fans' mind.
Hostess of the long running [10 years] television show, Pepsi Ungal Choice, the cool-tempered Uma is still going strong. In this MTV age, she is a rare television anchor who prefers to be traditionally attired (her bindis look like miniature kolams). And so she was at the show too.
Amidst fans, and the sound and fury of the fair, the duo managed to chat with mike in hand (shoppers heard the star-talk even while stall-hopping).
And Chitra Swaminathan recorded it.
Uma: Why are we not seeing much of you on the silver screen, these days?
Prashanth: Having spent 14 years in the industry [he entered at the age of 17] I know visibility matters. But I have matured to be able to get a kick out of reading a good script than being part of the numbers game.
Uma: Despite the ups and down, what has made you to continue in the field?
Prashanth: I have worked with the best of directors, producers, technicians and co-stars. So that way people remember your work. My slow, steady and calculated growth in the industry is because my father [actor Thiagarajan] is always there for me. Generally actors are not seen as family people. But I think my father is an exception. During his acting days, when he came home after shooting, he would play with us and take us on long drives. He also moulded our [Prashanth has a sister] character and behaviour without being preachy. More than a father, I see him as a friend in need.
Thrilling twist
Uma: So is it your father who has now given a thrilling twist to your career?
Prashanth: I know you are referring to my latest thriller "Shock" [remake of "Bhoot"]. The film's success has in fact surprised me. A non-formula film, I wondered how it would be received down South. During a visit to Mumbai, I went along with my father to watch "Bhoot", and even before we were out of the theatre, my father had decided to make the film in Tamil. Within 24 hours he bought the rights and everything was finalised. We were very keen to give something different and exciting to the audience here.
Uma: I believe Sneha and you are coming together after "Virumbigirein"?
Prashanth: After four years, I think. The film is called "Ayudham" and it is almost complete. We recently shot some of the songs in London. With 50 girls from "Bombay Dreams" grooving in Sungadi saris at the Trafalgar Square, we created quite a stir. Come on Uma, you are not supposed to be anchoring here; you need to do some answering too.
Uma: I am just one show old, yet I have been around for 10 years (laughter lights up her large eyes). Don't you think it's a unique experience? Jokes apart, believe me there's never been an odd moment any time. I attach a lot of importance to culture, dress sense and dignified behaviour. And I have tried to maintain that in the show from day one. Those who have been watching it over the years are not merely viewers but rasikas.
Prashanth: Personally, I feel the sari is a beautiful attire. But have you never been tempted to try an image makeover?
Uma: I am the laidback kind. So I really don't care to play around with my looks. Besides, in certain things, I know what I want. For instance, when I started my television career I got good film offers, even from Subhash Ghai. Not being the ambitious kind, I preferred marriage to marquee.
Prashanth: Touch wood, you still have both — fame and family. So, that `perfect wife' onscreen look is real!
Uma: Of course, real, not worked upon. And when are you planning to enter that blissful world (can't hold back that mischievous smile)?
Relationships matter
Prashanth: (One of the most eligible bachelors in town, he must be tired of answering this question) For now, I am driven by goals and not girls. By the way, I am going around with a girl. Not many people know about it, but I don't mind telling you... It's my laptop (sorry to have disappointed you). I am completely hooked to this gizmo and can't do without it.
Uma: Like your films, will she too be papa's choice?
Prashanth: May be yes. (After a thoughtful pause, continues) I hope to get someone who respects my space, work and feelings. You know, the day I entered the film industry my father quit it. Compromise may sound clichéd and conservative in the new age but it is crucial to any long-lasting relationship — family, friends or fans.
Uma: I am no feminist. And it is good to know you are not a chauvinist either. A perfect formula for Take Two.
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