R Madhavan not intimidated by co-star Kangana Ranaut

R Madhavan has always been known for his versatile acting skills. In a recent interview, he spoke about working with Kangana Ranaut and his experiences playing silent characters on screen.

Madhavan and Kangana Ranaut worked together in the films Tanu Weds Manu and its sequel, Tanu Weds Manu Returns. When asked if he was intimidated by his co-star, who played a double role in the sequel, Madhavan gave a classic reply – “No, I was not intimidated. Why should I be? She was my co-star in Tanu Weds Manu and its sequel, and a wonderful, supportive and genial co-star.”

Playing Manu in the two films brought back wonderful memories for Madhavan. He credits director Aanand L Rai for bringing out the best in him as an actor. He said, “Aanand L Rai is a dear friend. He somehow brings out the best in all his actors. I was certainly at home playing the quiet Manu.”

Madhavan feels that playing silent characters is a difficult task, especially in India where extroverted characters usually get more attention. He praised directors like Mani Ratnam and Aanand L Rai who allowed him to explore silences on screen.

When asked why he hasn’t worked with Aanand L Rai since Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Madhavan jokingly replied, “It’s not as if we are obliged to work with one another. I know Aanand will come to me when he has something as challenging as Manu for me. I know it is a hard act to follow up. But didn’t Aanand follow up Tanu Weds Manu with a sequel? And both were big successes.”

Key takeaways:

• R Madhavan was not intimidated by Kangana Ranaut while working with her in Tanu Weds Manu and its sequel.
• Aanand L Rai is a dear friend to Madhavan and he brings out the best in all his actors.
• Madhavan enjoys playing silent characters on screen and credits directors like Mani Ratnam and Aanand L Rai for allowing him to explore silences.
• Madhavan jokes that he and Aanand L Rai are not obliged to work with one another but trusts that he will be approached for a role as challenging as Manu.