“Theatres Are Shaking with Laughter for Hey Balwant” – Comedian Sudarshan
The rib-tickling entertainer Hey Balwant, starring Suhas and Shivani Nagaram as the lead pair, is directed by Gopi Achara and produced by B. Narendra Reddy under the Trishul Visionary Studios banner. The film is presented by the successful duo Bunny Vas and Vamsi Nandipati under Nandipati Entertainments and Bunny Vas Works.
Released on Friday (20th), the film has been receiving an overwhelming response from audiences and critics alike, racing ahead with blockbuster buzz as a complete laugh-riot entertainer. Comedian Sudarshan, who plays a key role and is winning hearts with his performance, interacted with the media on Sunday. Here are the highlights from the candid conversation:
Audiences are calling this “Sudarshan 2.0” in Hey Balwant. How does that feel?
Honestly, it feels amazing. I got a really strong character in this film, and the response has been phenomenal. People are loving the “Bunk” character I played and laughing nonstop in theatres. From the first scene to the last, audiences are enjoying the film thoroughly. This role has definitely brought me a new level of recognition.
How did your journey into films begin?
I started with a short film titled Amerikaku Daredi, which unexpectedly became very popular. That opened doors for me, and I got my first big opportunity with Run Raja Run. Since then, films like Dochey, Kumari 21F, Pataas, Samajavaragamana, Naari Naari Naduma Murari, and now Hey Balwant have helped me connect closely with audiences.
Your punchlines seem to be working exceptionally well in this film. Any reason?
My character has strong importance in Hey Balwant, so it got beautifully elevated. Scenes like the drinking episode and the naturopathy center sequence with Vennela Kishore are literally shaking theatres with laughter. Along with me, Suhas, Naresh, Suhani, and everyone else delivered terrific comic timing.
What do you think worked the most for the film’s entertainment factor?
We all shared a great rapport on set. There was perfect sync and comfort between the actors in every scene. That natural flow translated well on screen and made the comedy feel organic and impactful.
There are talks about you becoming a hero. What’s your take?
Right now, I’m not ready to become a lead hero in theatrical films. My entry into cinema was unexpected, and I’m still growing as a comedian. I don’t want to take such a big risk at this stage. My goal is to work alongside all heroes as a comedian. If I ever turn hero, it would be for small-concept OTT films—not mainstream theatrical ones.
Many comedians in the past successfully became heroes. Doesn’t that inspire you?
They did so after establishing a solid identity as comedians. My career is just gaining momentum. If I ever consider becoming a hero, it would only be for unique, small-scale stories that regular heroes usually don’t attempt.
Do you feel becoming a hero might affect your comedian opportunities?
Yes, to some extent. Once you act as a hero, people may hesitate to offer smaller roles, thinking it might not suit your image. That could lead to missing out on good films, which I don’t want right now.
As a comedian, self-mockery is often part of the job. How do you handle it?
I’m completely okay with it. I even make jokes about myself. At the end of the day, entertaining the audience is what matters most, and I’m ready to do whatever it takes for that.
Are you missing projects due to your busy schedule?
Yes, I’m quite busy these days. I’ve had to let go of a few good films due to date clashes. I’ve also received interesting offers from Tamil and Kannada industries.
Did anyone predict Hey Balwant’s box-office success before release?
Even a day before release, many people met me and made predictions—but most of them were wrong. No one really guessed the outcome correctly. Maybe some people knew but didn’t say it openly.
Are you satisfied with the roles you’re doing right now?
Absolutely. Films like Samajavaragamana, Panchaminar, and Kishkindapuri gave me solid recognition. Naari Naari Naduma Murari and now Hey Balwant have further strengthened my position.
What’s next for you?
I’ve done strong roles in Mrutyunjaya and Godavari Gattu Meeda, which are set to release soon. Apart from these, I’m currently working on a few more exciting projects.
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