I take up stories in which I can see myself in, and Anjaniputra is one such story: Puneeth Rajkumar

Kannada star Puneeth Rajkumar is easily one of the best dancers we have onscreen. He is also one of the most wanted actor-singers in town — what with every other film’s music album having at least one song sung by him. But his hit track record has very little to do with all of that. It is the fact that he picks stories in which he can see himself that has put him in good stead right through his career.Bangalore Times caught up with the star ahead of the release of Anjaniputra, and here’s a glimpse of what went into the making of this A Harsha directorial.
This is the first time you were directed by A Harsha, who has earlier choreographed some of your dance numbers. Was it any different?
Actually, it was not at all different. I have had at least one song in all my films choreographed by Harsha and having him direct me for Anjaniputra was an extension of that. Harsha is a very good technician who is also extremely calm in the most stressful situations. He is also very good with people management and that is basically half the battle won in such fields. He connects with people on a different level and it is this human touch that makes him endearing and easy to work with.
What thoughts go into choosing which director you want to work with for your films?
I look at directors who share a similar passion for filmmaking. Our wavelengths match almost automatically, thanks to the similarity in the level of passion we have.
How involved do you tend to get as far as filmmaking is concerned?
I am basically a director’s actor. I don’t like having to deal with too many changes in the script while on the set. However, I do my homework. So all doubts, clarifications, improvisations are taken care of before we begin shooting for the film.
What was it about the story of Anjaniputra that struck a chord for you?
When you listen to a story, you should be able to picture yourself in it. The genre of the film does not matter as much as the way the story connects to you does. If I can see myself in the story at least around 70 to 75 % of the time, I know I am going to be able to carry it off because I can relate to it. Anjaniputra is one such film to which I completely relate to.
You have sung so many songs for various Kannada films over the years. Add to that your dancing skills that are beyond compare. Is there any other hidden talent related to music that we are not aware of?
I have always enjoyed listening to music. I have been a great fan of songs sung by my father (late Dr Rajkumar) and Ilaiyaraaja sir, as well as those by Kishore Kumar. Music is an inspiration of sorts for me. I am thankful to all the directors and music composers who have given me a platform to sing for their films. But, that’s really where it ends. I wish I could learn to play the piano or the guitar, but, unfortunately, there is no such hidden talent.
Among the songs you have sung, which is your favourite?
That’s a tough one. I would go with Taliban Alla Alla because that was the first song I sang and it was for my first film in the lead role.
What do you think the audience should look out for in this film?
We feel we have done a good job. Everyone from the crew and cast to the music director has given it their all. Our producer, MN Kumar, has been a pillar of strength to say the least. The film has a pretty huge starcast — from Ramya Krishnan and Ravishankar to Chikkanna and Rashmika Mandanna. There is something in it for everyone.
Speaking of Rashmika, who has become quite the internet sensation ever since her debut. What’s she like to work with?
Rashmika is a really nice, sweet kid. She is extremely patient and is a good listener and, therefore, a fast learner. She also has this persona about her where she makes everybody around her smile. It’s a sweet trait. She has become really popular and now she is also engaged to Rakshit Shetty. The duo make a fab couple and I wish them all the happiness. Rakshmika is also very hardworking and I think she has a bright future ahead of her.
You have also started a production house, producing films in which you are not starring in. Why not?
My wife Ashwini is the producer, while I will be presenting the films made under her banner. We are looking at making films that feature others who have great stories to tell. We have one underway — Kavaludhaari that is being directed by my friend Hemanth M Rao. We also have another yet to be titled film to be directed by Radhakrishna in the pipeline, for which we are teaming up with yet another production house. It is our way of giving back to the industry what we have got in abundance. I might, at the most, appear in guest roles in some of these films, nothing more.
You are also back on television with Family Power after a gap of over four years. How different is it to be there?
Family Power is very different from Kannadada Kotiyadhipathi. This one involves three generations of a family working their way up the levels of the game together. It is always wonderful to be on television as it is also a great way to connect with a whole lot of people.