VIJAYAWADA: Veteran film actor, producer and director Giri Babu was felicitated by GVNRSSS Vara Prasad, an advocate at the High Court of Hyderabad, on the occasion of legendary artiste S V Ranga Rao’s birth anniversary at the Gantasala Music College in the city Thursday.
Seshagiri Rao Yerra alias Giri Babu hails from Ravinuthala village in Prakasam district. He has acted in over 700 films and tried his luck in direction and production. However, he is famously known for his negative roles in the 90’s.
Giri Babu shared his memories in an interview with the Express on the occasion. The excerpts
Q) You have been in the Industry for 41 years and acted in more than 700 films ? How was the journey?
Ans: It was a fantastic journey throughout and I’m pretty happy with what I’ve achieved so far. I personally like all my films and I have worked with utmost passion which is much more satisfying than anything else.
Q) Do you think that bifurcation effect had a negative impact on the Telugu film industry?
Ans: We are separated as a state, not as people. However, Telugu film industry will not be separated as we have faced the same situation after the Madras rule and we all know what happened later. Bifurcation certainly had an effect but I hope things will get better in the industry.
Q) There is a buzz that only children of celebrities can make it to the industry? Is that true and if so what would you suggest to the aspiring actors?
Ans: Of course, that is absolutely true. These days, there is no chance for the new-comers. Either you have to be son or daughter of a celebrity or you must have luck on your side. Those are the only ways to make a mark in the industry. You can see this culture mostly in Southern India and especially in our state. For that matter, even Nandi awards are mired in politics which is disgraceful. My message to all aspiring actors is, “You need to be extremely passionate and talented in order to survive in the industry and before that luck is all you need to make a debut in the industry.”
Q) What are your future plans?
Ans: I’m 71 and I don’t want to act any more. I’m concentrating on developing my native village, Ravinuthala in Prakasham district. I’ve taken up quite a few developmental works for the welfare of people and I would like to continue doing so.