S Shyam Prasad
Actor P Ravi Shankar’s son, Advay, celebrates a low-key birthday today as the team behind his debut film, “Subrahmanyaa,” prepares for a fast-approaching production start. City Hilights recently spoke with the young actor about the project’s development.
Following a muhurat ceremony just days ago, filming for “Subrahmanyaa” is imminent, with Ravi Shankar himself directing.
City Highlights (CH): How are you planning to celebrate your birthday?
Advay: This year, it will be a quieter celebration. The entire “Subrahmanyaa” team is finalizing preparations for the first shooting schedule. I’ll be on set contributing wherever possible. If there’s a celebration, it will likely be here with the team. We’re all laser-focused on the film, and shooting is slated to begin anytime this month. Every day on set feels like a birthday for me.
CH: We anticipated filming to commence immediately after the March 31st muhurat.
Advay: Since announcing the film late last year, the script has undergone some revisions. We want the first schedule to be flawless, and pre-production is crucial. We’re finalizing the availability of technicians and actors. Given the extensive VFX work involved, thorough planning is essential before filming starts. It’s all part of the process.
CH: Can you elaborate on the shooting schedule?
Advay: The first schedule will begin with a significant sequence. We have a substantial set constructed at a Bengaluru studio by Ullas Hydur, a renowned art director and production designer. Filming for this major sequence should commence sometime in April. We have a tentative plan for the number of shooting days, but as with any film project, things can change.
CH: How confident are you in your preparation for the role?
Advay: I’m very confident. Thanks to my training, I feel no fear or anxiety. I studied for two years at a prestigious acting school in New York. My formal training gives me strong confidence in my acting abilities. I also believe in an actor’s active involvement from the scripting stage to fully understand the character’s nuances.
CH: Is working with your father an advantage or a disadvantage?
Advay: It’s unquestionably an advantage, considering his vast experience. He possesses the clarity required of a director, and on set, everyone follows his lead. With nearly 50 years of experience collaborating with exceptional directors, actors, and teams, I consider myself incredibly fortunate to work with him as both my father and the director of my debut film. It’s a true blessing. While we maintain a father-son dynamic at home, on set, we are thorough professionals. Agreements and disagreements are expected, and that’s healthy. It’s a truly rewarding experience in my life.
