Malayalam star Prithviraj Sukumaran recently opened up about the importance of choosing the right stories and understanding what connects with today’s audiences. During a conversation with Yuvaa alongside Kareena Kapoor, the actor discussed changing audience expectations, the importance of good writing and why star power alone may not be enough to guarantee a film’s success.
Prithviraj Sukumaran says he would watch Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha in a Bhansali film
During the discussion, the conversation turned to the kind of films that can immediately generate audience interest. Kareena Kapoor pointed out that today’s viewers are far more discerning than they are often given credit for, while Meghna Gulzar stressed the importance of actors and producers supporting writers and allowing them to explore unconventional stories. The discussion also touched upon the belief that pairing a young actor and actress is enough to make a film successful. Kareena noted that such formulas do not necessarily work with contemporary audiences, who increasingly look for strong stories and compelling narratives.Prithviraj then offered an interesting example involving acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali. He said, “If Sanjay Leela Bhansali makes a film with Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha, I will definitely watch first day first show,” with the other participants also agreeing with the sentiment.
Prithviraj Sukumaran’s ‘Khalifa ’ continues its theatrical run
On the work front, Prithviraj was recently seen in ‘Khalifa’, which arrived in theatres during the Onam festive season on August 20. The film has continued its theatrical run, although its box-office performance has reportedly been below expectations. According to Sacnilk, ‘Khalifa’ has recorded an India net collection of around Rs 21.41 crore, while its India gross has been reported at approximately Rs 44.63 crore. Its overseas gross is said to stand at around Rs 19.90 crore.
Prithviraj Sukumaran to play Kumbha in SS Rajamouli’s ‘Varanasi’
Prithviraj is also gearing up for one of his biggest upcoming projects, SS Rajamouli’s ‘Varanasi’. The globetrotting adventure stars Mahesh Babu in the lead role alongside Priyanka Chopra Jonas, with Prithviraj playing the antagonist Kumbha. The film has generated considerable anticipation, given Rajamouli’s track record of mounting large-scale cinematic spectacles and the combination of Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj.‘Varanasi’ is scheduled to release in theatres on April 7, 2027.
