Voice-over-artist for Katappa’s character in Bahubali, Samay Thakkar reminisces

Sony MAX will celebrate 5 years of Bahubali: The Beginning through a special telecast of the Prabhas and Rana Daggubati starrer on July 11, 2020. Five years since its release, Bahubali: The Begining, has continued to maintain a special place in every Bollywood fan’s heart with its high-octane stunts,  gripping storyline and a stellar cast.

What makes the film a success even after 5 years of its release?

Even after the 5 years of the film’s launch, I think the one thing that stood out is the passion and brilliant performances by all the lead actors and supporting cast. On top of it, Rajamouli sir has done a magnamorphous job directing the film. The creative storytelling with the on-point humor element by Katappa’s character makes the film a full-time entertainer. I can never get bored of watching the film on Sony MAX again and again. It still feels fresh.

Everyone including the writers and music composers have done a fantastic job. Even the Hindi dialogues written by Manoj Muntashir are amazing. While dubbing we hardly had to do changes or improvisations for sync purpose.

What is your opinion on the popularity of Katappa’s character?

Katappa’s character is no less than a lead in the film. You can actually say that the film has two lead heroes with Prabhas and Satyaraj. While I was dubbing for Katappa’s character, the creative head told me that I am a perfect fit for Prabhas’ character and they would have cast me for Prabhas if we met earlier for the voice test. By the time I was finalized for Katappa’s character, Bahubali’s voice-over-artist was already locked. However, I never felt that I have played the second lead in the film. In fact, I loved being Katappa throughout.

You have created history in Hindi Cinema by giving voince to Katappa’s character. what do you have to say about this?

I think all the credits go to Rajamouli sir for such a beautiful direction. I, being an actor have always aspired to work with him in his projects.

Do you think the telecast of Bahubali: The Beginning on Sony MAX has helped it to reach a wider audience?

People still love to watch the film on television. I personally love to watch the film on Sony MAX no matter how many times I have watched it before. Some films like 3 Idiots and Bahubali: The Beginning still fresh to watch again and again.

Any fondest memory that you can recollect from the shooting days?

In the first part of the sequel Katappa’s character is projected as a very serious character. however, in the second part of the sequel we see a contrasting character with a younger version of Katappa. The makers were actually concerned if I will be able to perform the humorous part of it with utmost perfection like I did the serious part. However, being a theatre artist, I gave my best and enjoyed creating the voice over both the versions of Katappa. The creative head was so amazed that she almost fell off her chair laughing out loud and appreciated the unique flavor that I introduced to the character.