Varun is proud of his Chiru lineage

Ahead of his forthcoming release ‘Loafer’, Varun shares his experience on working for the film, career aspirations and working with Puri Jagannadh. Giving a back-story of how the ‘Loafer’ happened, Varun says, “After ‘Kanche’, he approached me with the script, I felt my role, and the story were both refreshing. I admire Puri’s films.

I grew up watching his films like ‘Pokiri’, ‘Amma Nanna O Tamilammayi’, etc. I like the way he showcases the protagonists’ rebellious attitude. So I immediately agreed to be on board.” “I play a conman. The scenes involving me and my father (Posani) are entertaining while scenes with my mom (Revathi) are heart-touching.”

Varun admits to being surprised initially with the title. “Yes, I was surprised with the title ‘Loafer’, but after I read the script and shooting was progressing I found fitting the bill to the tee,” he explains. “I did not have to be trained for this role, unlike in my earlier films, where I needed to do fair bit of research to look the part. I need not learn or unlearn anything; I was pleased to be myself (smiles).

On the importance of the film to his career graph, he says “My earlier two films were experimental, so I tried something different in this film. I wanted to choose films and roles that distinguish myself. I don’t want to be a star-hero. I wish to be known as an actor who can deliver quality product,” explains Varun.

Sharing his experience on working with Puri Jagannadh, the actor beams, “He has clarity and knows exactly what he wants. He gave me the time and freedom to be as natural as possible. Working with him was an enriching experience.” For a person who believes in taking two to three films a year, is he under pressure to do more films?

“I was inspired by my uncle Chiranjeevi, whose legacy has been continued by a generation of actors from within our family. I merely followed his footsteps and took up the first real big offer (‘Mukunda’­) that came my way. There’s nothing like pressure to do more films, but my dad and uncle always encourage me to do more and more to attain the required exposure.”

Varun says that he’s not disappointed with the behavior of his fans at the music launch of the film. “They always assume that our functions are overly family-oriented. Pawan Kalyan is a rather reserved person who hates partying. Quite apparently, his fans fail to spot him in our functions. You can’t blame anyone,” he quips.