He’s the epitome of confidence and swagger and his passion for acting shows clearly in every frame on the silver screen. Here’s actor Atharvaa Murali in an exclusive interview with Provoke Lifestyle Magazine, fresh off the success of his recent hit film Nirangal Moondru. From his upcoming releases to his inspiring journey as an actor, he opens up about what drives him and his plans for the future.

How did Vijay Murali become Atharvaa Murali?
I don’t know why they changed my name, but at the time, I guess my dad was spiritually inclined. Atharvaa is an avatar of Lord Ganesha, so he chose that name, and I was okay with it. It happened when I was in college, and I wasn’t too worried about the name change.

How was the year 2024 for you?
It’s been topsy-turvy, I would say. I felt like something significant was about to happen, but it didn’t. A lot of people told me the same. Honestly, I don’t even know how 2024 started and ended; it felt quick. It’s been an eventful year, though.

Tell us about your 14-year long journey and what impresses you before starting any film?
When you approach a story with a fixed notion, it doesn’t work out. Whenever I go for a narration, I keep an open mind. Maybe I would have read the synopsis, but I approach it as the audience who buys a `120 ticket. Some scripts are enticing in that angle. Cinema is more about teamwork, and when the team gels, the output turns out well.

How do you see the transformation of Tamil cinema?
I think it’s superb. Every decade, new talents emerge, and people claim Tamil cinema has gone to the next level. We live in a digital era where everything is under a microscope. Talented filmmakers now have multiple platforms to showcase their work, not just theatres. It’s a boon.

You dreamt of being a pilot earlier. Do you still have this dream?
Yes, I still have the passion, 100%. However, I may not get a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). Instead, I’d aim for a Private Pilot License (PPL). Fingers crossed; hopefully, it will happen.

Have you faced criticism for being a nepotism kid?
Yes, my father was in films. But at the start of my career, my father passed away, so I didn’t experience the typical advantages of being a Nepo kid. Even if you’re born into a film family, every project is about learning or unlearning. My journey has been about self-discovery. For every actor, each film feels like a new beginning.

We heard you’re a stunt choreographer’s favourite. Tell us more.
I love stunts and challenges. Growing up, I watched WWF and loved wrestling. My brother and I would join our beds to wrestle and break them, earning scolding from our parents. On set, my love for stunts helps me connect with the action sequences.

Tell us about your first day with stunt Pandian Master.
It was my 18th birthday, and instead of celebrating, the director woke me up early and took me to Pandian master. That period, about six months to a year, was one of the best times of my life. It was a phase of self-realization. That process has helped me immensely, and I think every actor should go through it.

What was it like attending acting classes with actor Nassar?
I was camera-shy and unsure about an acting career. When I shared my concerns with my father, he directed me to Nassar sir. He explained filmmaking and acting in detail, making me initially question my decision. But later, I committed to it and underwent a three-month workshop with him. It helped me shed inhibitions, and I’m very thankful to him.

You went to theatre after Baana Kaathadi. Tell us about it.
I don’t remember doing mainstream theatre but performed in a few plays. Nobody can teach acting; it must come from within. Theatre is entirely different from cinema. You don’t get retakes in theatre. It’s challenging but builds confidence.

What guides your film preparations?
I rely on my directors. I discuss their vision and the character’s nuances. Every film has a unique preparation. A sports film requires physical prep, while an emotional film demands mental preparation. Each film is different, and the director plays a crucial role.

What draws you to cop roles?
I first wore a uniform in Eetti and liked it, though I didn’t feel like a cop. Sam, one of my favourite directors, made me feel like one during his film.

How do you view projects on OTT platforms?
Thanks to COVID, people have started exploring regional films on OTT platforms. We shot a project in 60 days, and while the process is similar to films, the platforms allow wider reach.

How did you become a producer?
The confidence came from my first film’s director, Badri Venkatesh sir, and my cousin, who’s also involved. They gave me the courage to take this step.

Do you have a girlfriend or any online love stories to share?
I’m old school and don’t believe in online love. I prefer face-to-face interactions. Texting and online chats come later.

Tell us about your boys’ gang.
Every guy needs a boys’ gang. We meet daily or at least twice a week, mostly at my place, playing GTA or Dota. Now, with many of them married, their new topic is my marriage.

What’s special about your Nirangal Moondru project?
It was a fast project that was shot in 21 days. Karthick Naren’s confidence made it possible. Some films, like Paradesi, are so intense that you can’t think of doing anything else for years.

What’s your recent favourite film?
I’ve recently enjoyed Lubber Pandhu and psycho-thriller films.

Tell us about your upcoming releases.
The DNA film is complete and should release in a month. Akash Baskaran’s project is slated for mid-2025.

What can you share about the #SK25 Project?
Sudha ma’am has been a close friend since Paradesi. Working with her feels like a home production.