I have always lived on the edge, says Sonu Sood

Sonu Sood is looking forward to his big, festive release Tutak Tutak Tutiya, along with Prabhu Dheva. We speak to the actor about his experience of being a first-time producer, his association with Tammanaah Bhatia, and working with Jackie Chan in Kung Fu Yoga. Excerpts:

Who came up with the funny title, Tutak Tutak Tutiya Our film is like a celebration. When the audience will come to see the film in theatres, they will feel festive and happy. We wanted a quirky title for the film, and since it’s a famous dance song, Prabhu (Deva) and I thought of keeping the title.

You’ve also turned producer with this film... I never thought I’d become a producer one day, but all my industry friends and directors who had worked with me before believed that I would produce films. Being a technical guy, I knew about song designing, among a lot of other things, I’m still growing as an actor, but when I came across this script, I felt it was phenomenal. So why shouldn’t I produce it I took a step ahead, and since I wanted to entertain my way, I started my production house on my dad’s name. I hope I will make him proud.

How was the production experience It’s a tough job. I’m answerable to several people, and my phone rings continuously. I’m learning a lot of new things in life and I’ve always lived on the edge. I have always done something that excites me. It’s challenging yet exciting. In fact, I wasn’t apprehensive about it initially; it was my inner voice that pushed me to become a producer.

How did the film happen with Prabhu Prabhu and I both approached the film. When I liked the script, I thought I would release it. It’s like idli sambhar served with makki ki roti and sarson ka saag!

The film is also releasing in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi Yeah, all three of us actors have done prominent roles in our respective industries. Though we have different supporting actors in each film, we thought of making it in three languages. It was a tedious job.

How was it working with Tamannaah for the second time I’ve done Entertainment with her. I have a great rapport and bonding with Tamannaah. She was always the first choice for the film, since we wanted to make the movie in three languages, and she’s worked in all three of them.

Tell us about your role in the film. I’m playing the role of an actor in the film, called Raj Khanna. I’ve also done several other roles in the movie. Since I’m playing an actor in the movie, I had some amazing songs in it, be it Rail Gaddi, or Tutak Tutak Tutiya.

Do you feel all Bollywood bigwigs have backed you No matter whom I’ve worked with, they’ve always created a great bond with me. I can almost say I’m like a brother or family to them. I think it’s your personality or vibes that you carry, which makes the bond stronger.

How was it working with Jackie Chan for Kung Fu Yoga I shot with him in Dubai, China and India. He’s a great guy and I share a good raport with him. He’s one of the most humble people I’ve ever come across. The movie has a lot of action, comedy and travelling. It’s been a memorable experience. I remember Jackie had told me that he wanted to cast a fit guy in the film, and I topped the list. My director had done many big films like Police Story, and I’m glad they considered me.

Tutak Tutak Tutiya is clashing with Mirzya on October 7. Are you nervous It doesn’t really matter how many films release on the same date. We’re releasing it since Dussehra is an auspicious occasion. Our film is happy and festive. Films are bound to clash at the box office, as there are only 52 weeks in a year.

Do you feel you’re more of an ensemble film actor than a solo film hero I feel I’ve always given my best to all films. No matter how much you achieve in life, there are stages where you say that you will come out of a certain situation. There are close friends and people to support you. I may take some time to prove myself, but the journey must go on.