Chaitanya Jonnalagadda has been known to the audience as Siddu Jonnalagadda's brother. When he did Bubblegum (in which he had a pivotal role) and HIT 3, as he says, nobody recognized him. Playing Venkanna (the heroine's abusive father) in Raju Weds Rambai, however, has changed the game. In this post-release interview, Chaitanya suggests that the love story has become a breakout movie in his early filmography.
I prepared for the character with great care. Right from what costumes to wear and how thick my beard has to be, from how much oil I should apply to look the part, I was thoughtful about each aspect. My director Saailu Kaampati and I brainstormed over them in detail.
The encouraging response to the film and my character, Venkanna, is making me happy. I did believe that the film would surely be embraced by the audience.
ETV Win, Vamsi Nandipati, Bunny Vas, and Venu Udugula are why I did this film. While I liked the character, I wouldn't have taken the risk of doing this film had I not found trustworthy persons. Earlier, a film of mine didn't get released and that filled me with skepticism. The producers felt that I suit the character completely. I forewent a leading role in a film with People Media Factory to be able to do Raju Weds Rambai.
My upbringing in a middle-class family and the challenges we faced instilled in me the discipline and drive I bring to my performances today. While my brother, Siddu, achieved stardom and helped stabilize our family financially, I only pursued acting once I was personally settled. I consciously choose not to have Siddu at my film events. However, the opportunity to share the screen with him someday would be a true honor.
I am currently doing a film directed by Pavan Sadineni. Rajasekhar is its hero. I am also doing Dulquer Salmaan’s Aakasamlo Oka Thara. I am in talks for a few more projects. I am not in a rush. Since I entered the film industry after settling down in life, I can afford to work at my own pace. I have shifted base to Hyderabad from the US.
I am willing to play a differently-abled man, again, if the character holds emotional weight.
