Fresh off from his standout performance in SonyLIV series ‘Mayasabha’, Telugu actor Aadhi Pinisetty is gearing up for one of the most defining roles of his career – the antagonist in ‘Akhanda 2’. Teaming up with director Boyapati Srinu and veteran Telugu actor Nandamuri Balakrishna, Aadhi sees the opportunity as both challenging and liberating.
In an exclusive conversation with India Today Digital, the Telugu actor, best known for his grounding performances in films like ‘Ninnu Kori, ‘Sabdham’, and more, opened up about venturing into new dynamics with ‘Akhanda 2’ – an upcoming Telugu fantasy action drama drama, sharing screen space with Balakrishna and upcoming projects.
On embracing the villain
While he has seamlessly moved across genres in the past – from action in ‘Sarrainodu’ to emotional dramas like ‘Ninnu Kori’ – Aadhi admits that stepping into darker territory excites him the most.
He explained, “I think we all have villains inside us. It’s the situation that makes you positive or negative,” adding that playing the conventional hero can at times feel monotonous.
The ‘Eeram’ actor continued, “Being the person who always does good is kind of boring after a point. Villains don’t have boundaries. You can do whatever you want, and as an actor that is far more interesting.”
However, Aadhi is quick to clarify that he isn’t abandoning lead roles altogether. He said, “I’d love to do hero parts as well, but they need to have complexities – just being the good guy who saves everyone isn’t enough any more.”
Working with Balayya and Boyapati
The actor is equally candid about his admiration for Balakrishna, popularly known as Balayya.
Sharing his experience of working with the veteran star, Aadhi said, “Balayya garu is an energy powerhouse. What you see on screen is exactly what he is off-screen. He’s such a hardworking, grounded human being, and I learnt so much from him.”
On collaborating with film-maker Boyapati Srinu, best known for hits like ‘Akhanda’, ‘Simha’ and ‘Legend’, he added, “I’ve always admired his dedication. The way he functions on set is inspiring. To be part of his film with Balayya leading it is a huge opportunity.”
Aadhi’s career has had varied choices. 2025 has already been a landmark year for Aadhi with projects like ‘Sabdham’ and ‘Mayasabha’.
He credits his filmmakers for offering him diverse characters. “Actors are often overhyped. The real credit goes to the writers and directors. When the script is strong, all I need to do is be honest to it,” he said.
As he now steps into one of his boldest avatars yet in ‘Akhanda 2’, Aadhi is looking forward to breaking moulds. “For me, exploring the darker side is not about negativity, it’s about the freedom it gives as a performer. That’s what makes it truly exciting,” he concluded.
Aadhi is currently working on his upcoming projects – ‘Disco’ and ‘Maragatha Mani 2’ – both of which are yet to be officially announced.