‘Might feel a little targeted or something’: Dulquer Salmaan on being labelled Mammootty’s son
As the much-anticipated film Kaantha gears up for its theatrical release, actor Dulquer Salmaan spoke candidly about being the son of legendary actor Mammootty.
In an interview with Behindwoods, Dulquer reflected on his film industry lineage, saying, "It is definitely an advantage. I do not think it is fair to ever say it is a disadvantage. Sometimes, we might feel a little targeted or something. But I think anyone who reaches a certain level of fame or success will become targeted. I do not think we should say it is a struggle or a disadvantage."
Kaantha, directed by Selvamani Selvaraj, is set in 1950s Madras and explores the intense mentor-protégé relationship between a star actor and his director. Dulquer plays Chandran, the "King of Acting," who rises to stardom under the guidance of director Ayya, portrayed by Samuthirakani.
The trailer hints at a clash of egos between the two, starting with a scene from the fictional horror film Shaantha, directed by Ayya and starring TK Mahadeva, the "Nata Chakravarthi." What begins as a dream project spirals into conflict as pride and creative differences push both men to the edge.
The film also marks the debut of Bhagyashri Borse, whom Dulquer described as "a true Nadippu Chakravarthy (emperor of acting)," praising her remarkable talent.
Produced by Dulquer Salmaan and Rana Daggubati under Wayfarer Films and Spirit Media, Kaantha was originally slated for a September release but was postponed to accommodate the release of Lokah: Chapter 1 - Chandra.
Outside of Kaantha, Dulquer, who recently appeared in a cameo in Lokah, has two more projects lined up: the Telugu film Aakasamlo Oka Tara and the Malayalam film I’m Game.