Champion Delivers Grand Action and Deep Human Emotions That Connect With Everyone – Roshan
The upcoming film ‘Champion’, produced by Swapna Cinema, has already generated strong buzz with its intriguing promotional content. Starring Roshan and Anaswara Rajan in the lead roles, the film is directed by Pradeep Advaitham and presented by Zee Studios, in association with Anandi Art Creations and Concept Films.
The chartbuster songs composed by Mickey J Meyer have further heightened expectations. Scheduled for a grand worldwide release on December 25, Champion promises a spectacular cinematic experience. On this occasion, hero Roshan shared interesting insights about the film during a media interaction.
Ram Charan praised you highly at the trailer launch. How did you feel?
It made me extremely happy. I’ve known Charan anna since childhood. The way he spoke about me, our film, and our team truly touched my heart. It was a very special moment for me.
The film is being compared to Magadheera. Is the concept that intense?
The story is set in 1948. The action, drama, and war sequences are mounted on a very grand scale. Many people are familiar with the historical background of Byron Pally. Within that setting, a fictional character named Michael has been created to present the story in a compelling way.
How did you prepare for your character?
Though I normally speak Telugu, my character has a proper Hyderabadi dialect. I trained extensively to get the accent right. With my director’s guidance, I also attended workshops to shape the character accurately.
You dedicated nearly three years to this film. What was the reason?
Most heroes make their debut around the age of 25, but I entered the industry at 21. Though it may seem like a break, I felt this was the right age to come back stronger. Taking this gap was completely my decision.
What did you learn during these three years?
Acting requires a deep understanding of human emotions, which comes with maturity. I traveled a lot, observed life closely, and learned many things. These three years were extremely fulfilling and happy for me.
Tell us about the action sequences in Champion.
Peter Hein sir designed the action brilliantly. I did sustain a few injuries during shooting, but that’s quite normal for an action film.
Did you take any references for the film?
The story unfolds during a time when India had attained independence, but Hyderabad had not. The director provided detailed references. Swapna garu is very particular about authenticity. The director, Swapna garu, and art director Thota garu researched extensively. Several workshops were conducted to maintain period accuracy. The film has powerful drama, and every element is interconnected.
How was it working with Kovai Sarala garu?
She has worked in many films with my father as well. She’s an actress with impeccable timing. Sharing screen space with actors who previously worked with my father was a wonderful experience.
The visuals look extremely grand. Did the big budget add pressure?
Big-budget films like Spider-Man are made with enormous investments, even with new actors. The money is spent on the subject, not the star. Since Champion has a strong story, the scale was justified.
Of course, there is pressure—but my focus was only on acting. Every character in Byron Pally village has significance, with a clear beginning and end.
How involved were you in the script development?
I wasn’t involved in writing the script. The moment I heard the story, I was convinced I wanted to do this film. I did, however, discuss my character’s nuances and performance style with the director.
Tell us about Anaswara Rajan?
The film has an engaging drama-driven relationship between the hero and heroine, filled with fun moments. Anaswara has acted in nearly 25 Malayalam films and brings great experience. Her character has depth and plays a crucial role in fulfilling the hero’s purpose.
How is the music?
I recently watched the film with the background score, and audiences will see a new side of Mickey J Meyer. The action sequences paired with the background score feel fresh and powerful.
There’s a vintage car in the film. Does it have significance?
Every object in the film has importance. The car itself is like a character. Guns, balls—every element carries meaning and relevance.
Did you learn football for the film?
I used to play football in school, which helped. Football is the hero’s main motivation. I also learned horse riding during my childhood.
Your father has a strong family-image background. What kind of films do you want to do?
I want every film to be different. Repeating the same kind of films becomes boring. Today’s audience seeks unique experiences. To bring them to theatres, stories must offer something fresh.
My favorite genre is action, and I’m happiest when my films reach a wide audience.
How is Kalyan Chakravarthy’s role?
His character is inspired by a real person from Byron Pally. Acting alongside him was a great experience. He’s also a doctor, and we shared many insightful conversations. It was truly beautiful.
How has Champion changed you?
It increased my patience and transformed me as an actor. Audiences will see a completely new Roshan. There’s a huge difference between the old me and the present me. After watching the film, people will say that taking a three-year gap was the right decision. The film’s rush looks fantastic.
How is your bonding within the industry?
Akhil anna is a very close friend. Thaman anna too—we often play cricket together.
Do you take your father’s advice while selecting scripts?
He listens to the stories but leaves the final decision to me. He heard this story only as a one-line narration and trusted my judgment completely.
About director Pradeep Advaitham?
He’s from Warangal, and the emotions come naturally to him. Every actor he selected is perfectly suited for this story.
How was the producers’ support?
Swapna akka, Priyanka akka, and Dattu garu—we all function like a family. Dattu garu has launched many talents and produced several great films. I’m extremely grateful to him for backing Champion on such a grand scale.
Any suggestions from Nag Ashwin?
I’m generally shy. He advised me to be more open and expressive (laughs).
Did you always want to become an actor?
Initially, I wanted to be a cricketer—my father wished the same. But over time, I developed a strong interest in cinema.
How many days did you shoot for Champion?
We shot for nearly 100 days. Since there are many action sequences, special preparation was required. Injuries also caused occasional shooting gaps.
Your first heroine Sreeleela is now a star. Do you stay in touch?
Yes, she’s a good friend. We do stay in touch. I’m very happy to see her career progressing so wonderfully.
What kind of experience will Champion offer audiences?
The film is rich in human emotions, especially village-based emotions portrayed beautifully. That emotional core will connect with everyone.
What’s next for you?
An announcement will be made soon. This time, I plan not to take long gaps and aim to do three films in the next two years.
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