Take that, and that, and that!

'Reformed' rowdy Mahin says he's too tough to be merry with his first film which releases today, but his next venture will be a romantic comedy

Take that, and that, and that!

'Reformed' rowdy Mahin says he's too tough to be merry with his first film which releases today, but his next venture will be a romantic comedy

'Reformed' rowdy Mahin's film Nanda, which is based on his life, hits the screen today. He has written the script and produced the film. He tells HiT LiST about his dark past and his obsession with films.u00a0u00a0

What made you step into this glamour world?
I've always been an avid film buff. I decided to produce a film in 2002. I went through many scripts, but none of the stories excited me. That's when I thought of making a film based on my own life. I did the script myself.u00a0u00a0
Tell us about your underworld days.
My journey into the world of crime began when I fell in love and eloped. My girlfriend's parents lodged a complaint and tried every thing they could to separate us. False cases were filed against me and my rivals ensured that the police had a dossier on me. Circumstances dragged me into the underworld. But I managed to extricate myself. I now lead a peaceful life with my family. I thank the almighty for that.u00a0

You had rivals even before entering the underworld?
I'm talking of business rivals, who had underworld connections. I was in the real estate business and I was doing very well. My jealous rivals conspired against me.

What made you offer the lead role to Shivarajkumar? You could have played yourself in the film.
Shivanna is one of the best actors in the Kannada film industry today. When I decided to make an autobiographical film, he was the first actor who came to mind. Acting is in Shivanna's blood. He gets into the skin of the character and performs with elan.

I have acted in the movie. I am the hero's best buddy. I never wanted to become a hero. I always wanted to be behind the camera. I have dreams of directing a movie. Mere good looks are not enough to become a hero.

There are other requisites. I am aware of my limitations. That's why I chose to play a character role.u00a0u00a0

There are allegations that you were rude to the crew and your presence on the sets would leave them scared.
I really don't know who cooks up such stories. You can ask the entire cast and crew of the movie about my behaviour. I treated all of them like family. I can't understand why people are so keen to tar my reputation.u00a0u00a0

Did the recent release of films on the underworld inspire you to produce Nanda?
The script for Nanda was ready in 2003. I don't think any realistic film on the underworld had been made by anyone in the Kannada industry at that time. It was difficult to get Shivanna's dates during that time and there were other reasons too for delay in the project.u00a0u00a0

Have you found your groove as producer and actor?
Nanda is just the beginning. My next film will be a romantic-comedy. I've come to the industry with big dreams and aspirations. I love to wield the megaphone.

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