I struggled my way through to reach this position: Prem

Riding high on the success of Vikram Vedha, actor Prem, who played a pivotal role in the film, is happy about the response he’s getting for his role. Though he has acted in films like Si3, Thodari and 36 Vayadhinile, Prem says that the way his character was portrayed in this film was different. On how he got the offer, Prem says, “I have met Pushkar and Gayatri at film events. I later heard that they were working on a new project. I was watching MS Dhoni: The Untold Story at the theatre when I got a call from Pushkar saying that he had a role in mind for me. I went to his office the next day and he told me that he wanted me to play the role of a cop. I was apprehensive if they were typecasting me because I had played a cop role earlier, but Pushkar assured me saying that I wouldn’t even be in a cop’s uniform in this one. He asked if I had ever entirely shaved off my hair. I told him I hadn’t done that since I was a kid. Using photo editing software, he showed me how he wanted me to look and added that I would look great in that closely cropped hairstyle. Even my family members were surprised to see me in this look.” Prem says that he’s got a lot of recognition after this film. “I have been getting so many positive comments on my social media page and it feels wonderful,” says an excited Prem, adding, “I have been in the industry for so many years and all I wanted was to be known as a good actor in the industry. I struggled my way through to reach this position and even went through a low phase, when I was quite depressed. My family supported me during such times, and I am glad to have finally realised my dream.”The actor has Sasikumar’s Kodiveeran up for release next. “It is a rural subject and I play a positive role this time. I don’t want to be stereotyped, and want to be part of good cinema,” he signs off.