Like father, like son for Vishnu Manchu

Vishnu Manchu may be known as his father’s son. Today, however, as a husband and father of two daughters, the actor is in a happy space that’s all his own. As he awaits for the release of Dhenikaina Ready, the actor sits down for a chat with DNA...

You have often said that like Dhee, Dhenikaina Ready, which is all set to release, will be a film that you will always cherish ...
The film releases on October 24 and after watching it you’ll know why I have been saying it. It is a hilarious film and I’m positive that people will enjoy watching it as much as I have enjoyed shooting for it. I play both a Hindu and a Muslim in the film and the story revolves around a case of mistaken identity. This film is also releasing in Malayalam and we’re considering a Tamil version as well.

You are returning to cinema after a gap of one and a half years... Did you miss being in action?
Not at all. But yes, this film was due for release much earlier. But I had to take a break in between as my wife was expecting our child. She is from New York and I went there to be with her. I even lost out on a very big project because of this and the release of Dhenikaina... also had to be postponed. But I have beautiful memories of the time we spent there. I’m blessed with two daughters now and I loved every moment that I spent with them and my wife. I wanted to be a hands on dad and would have not liked it any other way. So yes, there are no regrets whatsoever from my side.

Next up from your side is Ravana and you’ve been insisting on playing the Monkey God in the film — Why?
Apart from the fact that I am a great devotee of Lord Hanuman,  I feel that it will be a challenging role to play. But nothing is decided as of now. The film, which will tell Ramayana from Ravana’s point of view, will be produced in several languages including Hindi and we are planning to rope in actors from several industries. My father, Mohan Babu will be playing a pivotal role. But before getting down to starting work on Ravana, I will be doing the remake of Assembly Rowdy, one of my father’s old films.  

Speaking of your father, do you think you have had it easy in the industry because of his backing?
If anything, the pressure is more! Expectations are higher if you are the sons of a Rajkumar or a Mohan Babu. Your failures are not easily forgiven or forgotten. What hurts even more is the fact that they don’t say ‘Vishnu failed’ but ‘Mohan Babu’s son failed!’ If you ask me it kills to be
compared.

Just like films, would you consider following your father’s footsteps when it comes to politics as well?
I don’t want to repeat the mistake my elders made. Also I feel I’m too short tempered and straightforward to be in politics. Sports, cricket actually, is my other interest.