The influential pairing of Nagarjuna and Dhanush in Sekhar Kammula’s Kuberaa is creating ripples in the entire Indian cinema. The movie, which opened in theatres recently, has kicked off with a stupendous response and is heading towards box office success. With house-full shows and great word-of-mouth, Kuberaa is quickly becoming one of the best surprise packages of the season.
While Dhanush’s stardom brought initial buzz, it seems like veteran actor Nagarjuna is creating the noise thanks to his strong performance. Leading up to the release of Kuberaa, Nagarjuna hinted that he was taking a chance with his contribution, and that it would be something new and different than what he had done before. Many at the time thought it was mere promotional hype — but after watching the movie, viewers and critics alike would attest that he indeed delivered on his word.
In Kuberaa, Nagarjuna plays Deepak, a straight-shooting CBI officer. The role was a departure from his typical glamorous and romantic screen image. Portraying a no-frills earthy character with subtle grey shades, Nagarjuna won over the audience with his depth and commitment. Right from his physical transformation to his understated, authoritative screen persona, all about his performance seemed different yet effective.
What’s most commendable about Nagarjuna’s involvement is his off-screen dedication. He led the publicity drive for the movie, showing the level of concern he had for its success. Not only has his performance impressed viewers but also fellow professionals in the film fraternity, who have termed it one of the richest performances in his career.
Having already taken artistic gambles in the past — most recently, of course, with Brahmāstra — Nagarjuna again demonstrates he’s willing to move out of his comfort zone. In his turn as Deepak in Kuberaa, he again combines intensity and emotion, demonstrating that even in a straight-faced, less glamorous part, he can hold the audience’s attention through sheer talent.
With every film, he changes — not just in his capacity as an actor — but also as a performer willing to try things. With Kuberaa going so strong, and Coolie about to release, audiences can only wonder what new shades Nagarjuna will splash onto the screen.
