INTERVIEW: ‘Om Bheem Bush’ is a buddy comedy with a tinge of fantasy and horror, says actor Priyadarshi

In the upcoming film Om Bheem Bush, Priyadarshi plays the character of Dr Vinay Gummadi.

A couple of Vinay’s friends, too, enrol at Osmania University for a PhD programme. “They aim to enjoy the stipend and free hostel to spend some jolly time. I play a science enthusiast, while the other two (Rahul Ramakrishna and Sree Vishnu) are interested in occult practices. Every topic between us leads to humorous exchanges,” the Mallesham (2019) actor explains.

Gallery: ‘Om Bheem Bush’ trailer launch pics

‘Om Bheem Bush is a wholesome entertainer’

‘Om Bheem Bush’ is an out-and-out entertainer. (X)

“Om Bheem Bush is a pure buddy-comedy entertainer with a touch of emotion in the middle, which makes it stand out. The camaraderie between the three of us is the highlight. It’s a unique experience working with ‘Om Bheem Bush’,” he adds.

Starring Sree Vishnu, Priyadarshi, and Rahul Ramakrishna in the lead roles, Om Bheem Bush is directed by Husharu (2018)-fame Sri Harsha Konuganti.

Billed to be an out-and-out entertainer, the Telugu movie is produced by V Celluloid and Sunil Balusu. UV Creations is presenting it.

There was doubt among audiences when Om Bheem Bush made a splash with its first-look poster.

Everyone thought it to be a sequel to Brochevarevaru (2019) since the three actors worked together on it earlier.

Priyadarshi hastens to clarify: “No, definitely not. The characters in this movie are slightly more mature. In ‘Brochevarevaru’ we found ourselves unexpectedly tangled in a problem. However, Om Bheem Bush is quite different. Here, the three of us get into trouble through small-silly actions. It’s a distinct storyline, not a sequel.”

Also Read: I selfishly want to be part of every format of story-telling: Priyadarshi

On director Harsha and his co-stars

Rahul Ramakrishna, Sree Vishnu, and Priyadarshi are the lead actors in ‘Om Bheem Bush’. (Supplied)

Priyadarshi knew director Harsha Konuganti from the days of Husharu. Indeed, he was supposed to collaborate with him on previous projects, but it didn’t happen.

“When I heard the storyline of Om Bheem Bush, I was instantly hooked. Sree Vishnu and Rahul were equally excited. Additionally, having the backing of a strong production company like UV Creations, nothing held us back from taking a shot. The story is fascinating and the elements of fantasy and horror make it even more thrilling. Of course, working with friends made the experience all the more enjoyable,” he sports a smile.

While shooting for Om Bheem Bush, Priyadarshi admits that the camaraderie between the three actors sparked the idea for the title — Om Bheem Bush.

“We felt the title would resonate well with contemporary trends and new-age audiences. The phrase had been heard multiple times and carried a certain charm. Also, the title seemed like a valuable asset for the movie,” the actor quips.

Also Read: Priyadarshi dissects and reflects on the success of ‘Balagam’

‘Telugu cinema connects people’

Actor Priyadarshi. (Supplied)

When asked what changes he recognised since the days of Pelli Choopulu (2016), which won him recognition, the actor says he was a teenager at the time of Pelli Choopulu. However, he noticed a change in his mindset after seeing the response to the movie.

“After I did Mangalavaram (2023), I noticed a peculiar change within me. In my visit to a location, I heard people discussing their admiration for RRR (2022). It made me realise the profound connection Telugu cinema has with its audience,”

“They referred to me as part of the movie, saying, “You’re a movie person… RRR?” This spurred me to become more accountable, knowing how much the audience associates with us irrespective of region,” he recollects.

Since Priyadarshi played a key role in Mangalavaaram, has anyone offered him a lead role?

“I see myself more as an actor than a ‘hero’. A hero carries a certain image, whereas as an actor, you can adapt yourself as a free-flowing river. Acting allows for greater diversity and I believe there are more opportunities in the category,” he opines.

He signs off, saying, “Even in Mangalaavaram, I play a crucial character. But I wouldn’t label myself as the protagonist. I feel fortunate to work with talented writers and directors.”

Also Read: ‘Save The Tigers 2’ Telugu web series review