Nikhil Kumar is a director's hero: Vijay Kumar Konda

Nikhil Kumar will rev back to the silver screen on Christmas eve with Rider. We caught up with the director, Tollywood filmmaker Vijay Kumar Konda, who shared his excitement and happiness about branching out to Sandalwood and creating his debut Kannada film. Excerpts...
Tell us about how Rider came into existence...
It was at Hyderabad's Ramoji Film City that the idea of the film took birth.We began working on this idea and that's how Rider happened. We've worked on this story for almost two years. It has all the emotions, not just action and love as seen in most films. We get to witness every kind of emotion, which makes this film stand out. I would say this is the ideal kind of film that Nikhil sir needs to act in. It gives him the right space to perform and showcase his emotions.
You’ve entered a new language film industry. How has it been?
I am very happy I got to debut in Kannada. I consider Bengaluru as mini India, as it has people from all regions and cultures. Hence, people here are multilingual and understand many languages. The city also produces highly intellectual people. The people here are lovable and the filmmaking experience was a positive one.
How was it to direct Nikhil Kumar?
I was apprehensive as he comes from a powerful, political family. But Nikhil is a director's hero. He is extremely supportive and cooperative and puts in every effort. He is a team player and ensures the best output and does not give up until everyone is satisfied.
Tell us about the rest of the cast...
Kashmira Pardeshi is the leading lady and there is also another girl from Karnataka, Sampada Hulivana. We also have a huge supporting cast. I have been an admirer of Chikkanna and I got to work with him in this film. He has an emotional tinge to his character that sees him entertain as always. There’re also Garuda Ram, Shivaraj KR Pete and Rajesh Nataranga, among others.
How has the response been to the promotional material released so far?
I have been very thrilled with the kind of support and response we have been getting before the release. Many people loved the songs and are speaking about it in different ways on social media, through posts or through reels.
What's next? Can we expect more Kannada films?
I will do more Kannada films. I am working on my next script right now. Currently, I feel like I have exam fever as the film release is scheduled shortly. I am satisfied with the way the film has come out, but there is still that excitement and anxiety. I will plan my next after the release. But I am sure it will be in Kannada only.