“Bakāsura Restaurant Will Not Only Entertain but Also Touch Hearts,” Says Actor Praveen
Popular comedian and character actor Praveen, known for his impeccable comic timing and strong screen presence, is all set to take on a new challenge—headlining a film as the lead actor. His upcoming film Bakāsura Restaurant, described as a “hunger comedy entertainer,” is a unique blend of horror, thriller, comedy, and emotion, promising a thoroughly engaging cinematic experience.
Directed by SJ Shiva and produced by Lakshmaiah Achari and Janardhan Achari under the SJ Movies banner, the film stars Viva Harsha in the titular role, along with Krishna Bhagavan, Shining Phani, and Garuda Ram of KGF fame in pivotal roles. The film is slated for a worldwide release on August 8.
In this candid conversation, Praveen opens up about the film, his journey to the lead role, and what makes Bakāsura Restaurant a special offering.
Tell us about the story of Bakāsura Restaurant.
The film revolves around five key characters, and I play Paramesh, who essentially drives the story forward. My character is layered with both humor and emotion. His journey—his ambitions and how they unfold—is narrated in a unique and interesting manner.
This is your first time playing the lead. Are you feeling the pressure?
Absolutely. There is a sense of responsibility that comes with it. This isn’t a typical comedic role; the film explores multiple genres—horror, thriller, and even elements of mythology. Since my character is central to the plot, naturally, there’s a bit of pressure. But our director SJ Shiva handled everything with clarity and vision. Now it’s my duty to take the film to the audience with equal sincerity. Thankfully, I have the support of the industry and my fellow actors.
Can we expect your character to provide laughs?
Without a doubt. Entertainment is at the core of my character, but it also carries significant emotional weight. It was quite a challenge to balance those contrasting tones. The film ends on a note that’s emotionally heavy—it’s bound to leave a lasting impact.
Is the ‘foodie ghost’ a major part of the film’s conflict?
Yes! The entire premise is conceptual and quite novel. The way the foodie ghost causes trouble has been portrayed with a mix of humor and emotional intensity. It’s not your regular horror comedy—it has its own flavor.
Did you get involved in the production process or budgeting?
We did go slightly over budget, but honestly, it was worth it. The final output looks very promising, and I’m confident audiences will appreciate the quality and effort that went into it.
There’s a belief that comedians turning into heroes often lose out on supporting roles. Your thoughts?
That’s not something I worry about. I don’t consider myself a “hero.” I’m just someone doing a lead role in one film. I’m still very much involved in other big projects like Vishwambhara, Ustaad Bhagat Singh, Mass Jathara, Lenin, and Aakashamlo Oka Thaara. I’m open to any role that excites me and serves the story well.
It’s said that Dil Raju is backing this film. Is that true?
Yes, Sirish garu from the SVC banner watched the film and appreciated its content. He felt the story had a strong emotional core and a fresh concept. That’s why they’ve come forward to release it under the Sri Venkateswara Creations banner.
What sets Bakāsura Restaurant apart from other films?
The climax is particularly special. It captures a deep emotional moment—much like how we feel when a close friend has to leave due to unforeseen circumstances. That kind of silent, inner pain is very human, and it’s what makes the story connect with audiences on a personal level.
How do you handle the pressure of playing the lead?
I’ve learned to turn pressure into pleasure. Every film comes with its own set of challenges. As long as I enjoy the process, the pressure becomes manageable.
What kind of lead roles are you looking for in the future?
I’m open to all kinds of roles, but if I’m taking on a lead role, I’d prefer it to be high on entertainment. Since audiences already associate me with comedy, I’d like to continue choosing roles that tap into that expectation while offering something fresh.
What can audiences expect when they walk out of the theater?
They’ll have a fun, engaging experience full of laughs and thrills. But when the climax hits, it will strike an emotional chord. That’s the kind of dual impact we’re aiming for—pure entertainment with a lingering emotional message.
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