Think Jai and what flashes through the mind is the cool Raghu, the Royapuram Rockers cricketer from Tamil film Chennai 600028.
With Sasi Kumar’s Subramaniapuram, Jai found his place in the industry. As the shy Kadhiresan of Engeyum Eppodhum, he endeared himself to the audience. His last release was the romantic comedy, Raja Rani.
Jai talks about his role in Vadacurry, his upcoming films and his passion for car racing.
Q. What is your role in Vadacurry?
A. I play Satish, a normal Chennai guy, who unknowingly does a wrong and though he regrets it immediately, that mistake follows him and drags him into a larger issue. This role called for some real action scenes which I have attempted for the first time.
Q. How was it working once again with Swati Reddy?
A. After Subramaniapuram, Swati and I continued to be in touch as friends and that helped in bringing out the onscreen romance. Making improvisations on the spot was easy with Swati, who would not hesitate to try out my suggestions.
Q. We hear you danced with Sunny Leone?
A. Yes, we shot a dance sequence in Bangkok. She is a complete professional and down-to-earth, with no starry airs. She even expressed her desire to work in more Tamil films and was looking at a full-length role.
Q. What’s next?
A. My next release is Thirumanam Enn Nikaah, opposite Nazriya. Presently, I am working in Saravanan’s Valiyavan with Andrea as my heroine. Then, there is Vettai Mannan with Simbu as my co-star. On the anvil is Kanni Rasi, with nine heroines.
Q. Was acting a dream?
A. Not at all. Thanks to my uncle Deva [a music director], music influenced me in my growing years. I have completed fifth grade in keyboard from London’s Trinity College. I am a huge fan of Yuvan [Shankar Raja’s] work and often dreamt of surpassing his work as a composer someday.
Acting was accidental. Director Shankar, during the making of Boys, was on the lookout for someone who could act and had a music background too. I went for the audition, but by then, the cast had been finalised. However, that led me to my first film, Bhagavathy.
Music is close to my heart and I like to involve myself in the music compositions of my films with suggestions.
Q. Off the set, what are your hobbies?
A. I was inspired [to get] into car racing by [Tamil actor] Ajith. Right now, I am gearing up for my first race, scheduled on June 22 in Chennai, when I will be participating in the Saloon car racing event. What started as a mere hobby has become a passion for me.
