After his recent performance as Daniel Boxer in the Tamil version of Dabangg, Osthi, Sonu Sood, is on to his next, Rana, alongside veteran actor Rajinikanth. Sood, 36, also has the release of his Hindi film, Maximum, to look forward to in April. Known for being fighting fit and for playing the villain in several films, the actor shares body building tips and his experience during the Celebrity Cricket League in Dubai earlier this month.
How has Maximum shaped up?
Maximum also stars Naseeruddin Shah. I play a cop in the movie, which focuses on encounter specialists. It is a serious, action-packed movie, directed by Kabir Kaushik, and a lot of research has gone into it.
Tell us something we don’t know about Rana
It is a dream come true for any actor to be a part of a movie like this. Though we haven’t started shooting for it, the script is ready. I will be playing the antagonist. As for Rajnikanth, I have never met someone so humble and
disciplined.
You are 33 films old. The journey so far?
I am a survivor. There is always something that keeps me going. I have been fortunate to be a part of movies like Yuva. It is not easy to convince people and one needs to work hard to get appreciated.
What has worked in your favour?
I do not let things go out of my hand. But you could say the negatives are that I am not a party person. I do not socialise a lot. I do not drink or smoke. But I have stuck to my principles and have survived.
You have experienced four film industries. Comment.
Apart from the fact that the language is different, what differs is the budget. In terms of financing the movie budget, the Hindi film industry is number one and the Telugu industry is next.
How different was Osthi from Dabangg for you?
Dharani (the director) was great to work with. Daniel Boxer is a more serious character than that of Chhedi Singh, who I played in Dabangg. I loved the dark comedy in Dabangg.
You are big on workouts. A health tip?
What youngsters need is discipline. It is not just about rigorous exercise but the right kind of food you eat. I hit the gym every day and focus more on abdominal exercises.;