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 He
has two films to his credit. His debut film 'Azhagiya
Asura', which was a light romantic caper, and the recently
released 'Sivi',
a supernatural thriller. Two films of different genres, and
roles vastly different too. But Yogi played them both with
expertise. Being the grandson of the late character actor, 'Thengai'
Sreenivasan, it's in his genes, you could say. A tete-a-tete
with the new kid on the block.
Has acting been your choice or was it by
chance that you came to acting?
My choice, totally, though the offer came by
chance. I had a passion for films since childhood. But my being
the only son, my mother wanted me to get a degree first. After
graduating in computer science, I was all set to go to Australia
to do a course in acting from the celebrated National Insitute
Of Dramatic Art. It was the place where my favourite actor Mel
Gibson had had his training. I had set my heart on it. But then
the offer to play the hero in 'Azghagiya Asuura' came. It was
through my friend Krish (the singer) that I met the director.
And 'Sivi' came soon after.
 Now
that you are in it, how have you planned your career?
I want to make a mark here and do some
challenging roles. Roles that are as diverse as possible. I
don't mind taking any kind of risk for that. In 'Sivi' it was a
role with negative shades. I did my own stunts too. I had to
jump from a 14-storey building. And though my director,
Senthilnathan, and the unit advised me to use a double, I did it
on my own. And when it was appreciated, I felt my hard work had
paid off.
Both your films received good media
reports. But when they failed to click at the box office, wasn't
it frustrating?
There is one thing that I'm sure about. That
hard work and dedication will pay off sooner or later. I would
have been upset if I didn't put in my best. Both me and my films
did get praise. As for the box office, its success depends a lot
on marketing too. I'm happy I gave my best though commercial
success would surely have been welcome!
What are your memories of your
grandfather?
 I
was the first grandson of the family, and very close to my
grandfather. I remember all those directors coming to our house.
Grandpa had a huge office where he used to hold discussions with
them. I was very small then. I used to sit on his lap and listen
to all that they talked about, without understanding a word of
it. But somewhere the interest was kindled, I think. I remember
many celebrities too who used to drop in frequently. But when he
passed away, about 20 years ago, all the visits stopped. And so
did our link with the film industry.
What are your future projects?
I'm sifting through the offers that are
coming in. I've signed 'Naan' with director Senthilnathan. It's
the same unit of 'Sivi'. And there is 'Thirumbi Paar' which is
at the
discussion level.
Malini Mannath
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