Filmmaker R Madhavan says receiving the Padma Shri has added a new dimension to his career, even as he is happy with the success of Dhurandhar, one of the most talked about films of the year.In an interview with DD News recently, the actor expressed the importance of being honored with the prestigious award by the general public and how it has changed the way he views his career.“This award made me realize that it comes with responsibility. There is fame associated with it, but there is also responsibility. It feels like everything I have done so far is just the beginning. People are now expecting more from me, and I will have to aim for a higher level than before,” said Madhavan.The actor admitted that when choosing films, the Padma Shri honor now influences his thinking at times.“When choosing a position, I first ask if it fits my personality and it fits my body of work. Somewhere later, the idea comes if the Padma Shri recipient should take a certain role,” he shared.
Dhurandhar worked because everyone believed the story
Madhavan also commented on Dhurandhar’s surprising response, saying that the film’s success was due to the team’s commitment to telling an important story rather than chasing sales.“I’ve always believed that when a film is backed by solid research and is made with a genuine desire to tell an important story – not just to make money – it can’t be ordinary,” he said.According to the actors, each member of the cast and crew had a lot of money in the project.“In the case of Dhurandhar, every actor and actor was very invested in the project. It was difficult to separate the character from the actor because everyone was very dedicated,” Madhavan explained.He said that the film’s portrayal of a progressive and motivated India has resonated with people, especially the young audience.“The film tells the story of a progressive, innovative and empowered India. When such stories are told honestly, people connect with them. The young audience came to the theater and felt proud after watching the film,” he said.
‘This film should win’
Reflecting on his career choices, Madhavan has made it clear that he has never done anything with the intention of making his position stand out from the crowd.“My role is to give everything I have to the actor. I don’t go into a film thinking that my role should be the one that the audience remembers the most. For me, it’s a selfish approach because it doesn’t help the film,” he said.The actor added that the success of the project as a whole is still more important than individual accolades.“If the film doesn’t work, individual appreciation means little. Ultimately, the film has to succeed,” concluded Madhavan.
