Why Charan Hesitated for RRR Anti-Hero Role?

Global star Ram Charan has carved a niche for himself in Indian cinema, often portraying righteous police officers. His Bollywood debut in “Zanjeer” saw him play ACP Vijay Khanna, while movies like “Bruce Lee: The Fighter” and “Dhruva” showcased him as IB officer Vikram Kumar and IPS officer Dhruva, respectively. However, SS Rajamouli’s “RRR” presented a unique challenge for the actor.

According to cinematographer K. K. Senthil Kumar, Charan was initially taken aback by the film’s narrative. The shocking element was the introductory scene where his character, Alluri Sitarama Raju, is seen beating other Indians. Charan expressed concerns over playing a character with such a seemingly negative portrayal, fearing it might damage his image and that of his legendary father, Chiranjeevi, who has been in the industry for over 45 years.

hHowever, Rajamouli’s vision ultimately won Charan over. The key lay in the character’s arc. The initial scene, though visually striking, was revealed to be a part of a larger story with a deeper purpose. Charan understood that the brutality had a reason, a hidden motivation that would unfold as the film progressed. This gamble paid off spectacularly.

The audience connected deeply with Charan’s character, not just within India but across the globe. The film’s success is a testament to Charan’s willingness to embrace a complex role and Rajamouli’s ability to craft a captivating narrative that transcended initial perceptions.