Chennai It is a rare occasion when Chennai’s much loved dancer drops into the city. CE catches up with current Mumbaivaasi Prabhu Deva about his much-delayed film, his love for Chennai and family life.
The ‘Michael Jackson of India’ is a busy man. From seven in the morning till two in the morning (of the next day of course), Prabhu Deva has story discussions, editing, music settings, shooting, more editing, advertising commitments… Phew! That’s a lot of work. Ask him what he does to relax and he smiles his quiet, shy smile and says, “Work. Only when I’m not working I get tired.” This workaholic has had a lot of ups and downs in his personal life during recent times but he insists he’s currently focused on his work — he is in Chennai to promote his much delayed film Kalavaadiya Pozhuthugal, directed by Thangar Bachan, also starring Bhumika, Prakash Raj and Sathyaraj. CE does a quick chat with him.
Your character in Kalavaadiya Pozhuthugal is said to be completely different from the roles you usually do. How different?
It’s nothing like my usual films or characters. The story is about a relationship after its happy ending. My character so different that it’s completely the Thangar Bachan’s character — that’s why I took it up. You will see me as Prabhu Deva only in the first 10 minutes. The rest of the film you will see the character only. It’s a very emotional, sensitive role.
And there’s no dancing in the film?
Nope. None. No dancing. (grins)
So you’ve been flying back and forth between Mumbai and Chennai to promote the film? You finished shooting for it nearly two years ago.
Yes, you can say that but I’ve not shifted to Mumbai completely. I stay there most of the time because of my work commitments, but Chennai is my home.
Do you miss Chennai?
Yes, very much so. I come to Chennai often because my two boys are here. They stay with their mother but I miss them very much. They’re a part of why I miss Chennai too.
How has life been after the divorce?
It has been difficult obviously. I have to manage a lot because the kids are studying here. I come here when I’m free and they come to Mumbai when they’re free. But work keeps me busy, so I don’t really have time to think about living in Mumbai or missing Chennai.
I have things pending as well. I’m thinking about the music album and I’m trying to come up with ideas, but I have no time
No time for our Illayathalapathy Vijay as well?
Haha. I want to do another film with him but as of now there are no plans. It has been a year. We’ll see if something materialises, but it will take some time.