'Nayeem Diaries' tells the life saga of gangster Nayeem. The film will be released in theatres on December 10. Directed by Damu Balaji, it has Vasishta Simha as the lead man. In this interview, Simha talks about his character, what makes the film unique, his other projects, and more.
Also featuring Yagna Shetty, Divi, Baahubali Nikhil, Sashi Kumar, Jabardasth Phani and others, the film has cinematography by Suresh Bhargav. Music is by Arun Prabhakar.
I started out as a singer, thanks to the encouragement given by Kannada music director Hamsalekha garu. I am a big fan of Hamsalekha garu. When I used to be a college student, I did a stage play, which won an award. It encouraged me a lot. I used to eagerly participate in cultural activities. Slowly, I took up theatre and made it my passion. Even after I got into a job, I continued my passion. Years later, I made theatre my main task.
Once I entered the film industry, I became a part of the photography and editing departments. The stint helped me gain insights. I started out as an actor by playing a negative role in a Yash film. Later, I played other roles in other Kannada movies. 'Kirak Party' is another of my movies in Kannada.
I caught the attention of producer CA Varada Raju garu, who came to me in Bengaluru. He told me about director Damu garu and 'Nayeem Diaries'. I loved the subject and got on board.
When I listened to the script, I wondered if someone can be this cruel. How we behave when we are faced with an unusual situation determines how we are going to behave in the future. Nayeem is impulsive. He doesn't think about the consequences of his actions. How he grows on to become a gangster is quite interestingly narrated in the film.
After doing films like 'KGF' and 'Narappa', it was a challenge to essay the titular role in 'Nayeem Diaries'. The emotional content of the film is something the audience are going to really love.
I have learned about Nayeem's life on YouTube and other sources. His life evokes both fear and pity. The film is a blend of crime, thrills and several other elements.
Since Nayeem is described as an anti-social element, it is understandable that I have raised eyebrows by acting in this movie. But, I am a mere actor at the end of the day. This film doesn't whitewash Nayeem at all. It's a reflection of the reality.
I have always been inclined to play negative roles. Even in theatre, I have done such roles. It's important for the audience to watch such stories.
'KGF 2' is one of my next movies. I have done 'Odela Railway Station', which has Sampath Nandi as the directorial supervisor. I will also be seen in another of his movies.
