Prakash RaoWhat do you play in the film?I play a musician who starts off as an ad-jingle-maker. Then, he realises that his job is frivolous and doesnt give him creative satisfaction. So he decides to start a band in which he is joined by Perizaad Zorabian. But he is unsatisfied with that as well.
Then, he returns to his village in the hope of convincing his mothers one-time friend, a Carnatic singer (played by Shabana Azmi) to join him. In the process he discovers his roots, his cultural, musical and emotional connections and a new kind of love.
What drew you to this film?
I strongly identify with the sensibilities of the character and the story. My character Abhinay is very city-bred and rediscovers himself when he journeys to his village. I found the story and my characters experiences very universal.
What was it like working with Mahesh Dattani?
Ive always looked at Mahesh as a writer and been a real fan of his plays. Hes very good with actors. He has the ability to probe beneath the surface and give meaning to every character and scene. His characters are always three-dimensional.
What was the experience of working with Shabana Azmi?
Awesome! As an actress, shes a thorough professional very committed, skilled, focused and sharp. And shes a wonderful person.
Warm and very genuine. In fact, she went out of her way to make Perizaad and me comfortable.
What was your experience with the southern industry, considering you debuted in a Telugu film?
My debut film Neetho was very mainstream, very commercial. But it didnt give me what I wanted. It just couldnt fit in. After that Ive decided to do only films that appeal to me.
A still from Morning Raga with Perizaad Zorabian So is Morning Raga the kind of art house cinema that appeals to you? Definitely not. We associate art house cinema with serious themes. Morning Raga has an urbane sensibility. It is a middle-of-the-road film that straddles both art and commercial cinema.
Tell us about the music of the film.
I love the music. Its got a very international feel with the mixing of ragas. While weve used Carnatic music which goes back 200 years we have also blended in Western instrumentation. It gives a very haunting and mystical feel.
What are your expectations from the film?
Since it is a small budget film, our biggest challenge is to get people into the theatres. I have no doubt theyll love it.
Was acting always on your mind, considering your father is an accomplished director in the south?
Not really. I did my engineering in computer science and was planning to do an MBA. But I always liked theatre. I tried my hand at regional theatre and really enjoyed it.
What does the future hold?
Im waiting for interesting offers, whether commercial or otherwise.
sowmya.rajaram@mid-day.com The Bandra boy loves
To hang out at Just Around The Corner
To relax at Bandra Bandstand
To admire the greenery around the suburb The fact that Bandra is so self-contained, a place where you can get everything you want. <
