Manchu Manoj Interview on Bhairavam: I’m grateful the audience still believes in me

Bhairavam is the latest action drama in Telugu and is all set to hit the screens on May 30, 2025. Okkadu Migiladu, Suryam, and Jhummandi Nadam fame, Manchu Manoj plays one of the leads, and he speaks to us about his comeback, taking a nine-year break, doing special roles, and his part in the action drama. Here is the transcript.

You were away from films. How did you bag this project?

I was going through my own issues in life when I met Bellamkonda Sreenivas at an event. He told me that the director, Vijay Kanakamedala, wanted to meet me. I met the director, and he narrated the character of Gajapathi Varma to me. It instantly clicked, and I said yes. Now here we are, ready for the film's release.

Why is Gajapathi Varma so special?

I have never played such a role in my career. I portray a very intense and ferocious character who creates tension in every situation he's involved in. Bhairavam will showcase me in a completely new avatar, and I’m super excited to see myself back on the big screen after nine long years.

How tough was it to stay away from films for nine years?

I took a break for personal reasons. Things didn’t go as I had hoped. Staying focused was very difficult, and at one point, I gave up. But the media and my fans always believed in me and waited for my comeback. I thank all my fans who stood by me through the years. I’m raring to go, and I’ve signed multiple films. I’m grateful the audience still believes in me, and I am sure that I will be back with a bang.

Working with the likes of Bellamkonda Sreenivas and Nara Rohit?

Not many know that all three of us were going through personal challenges. Our characters brought us closer, and we bonded a lot on set. That camaraderie shows in the film, and our bond has only deepened. Bhairavam is special for all of us—it’s a comeback vehicle, and its success could put our careers back on track.

About your association with director Vijay Kanakamedala?

Vijay is known for making hard-hitting films. People have a certain perception of his style, but Bhairavam will surprise everyone. The way he adapted the original story and gave us diverse roles is the highlight of the film. The masses will enjoy Bhairavam immensely.

When can we see you in a solo hero film?

As of now, I’m working on multi-starrer films. Aham Brahmasmi was supposed to be my comeback vehicle, but it got stalled due to reasons only I know. I have a few films lined up in character roles, and only when these do well will I get a chance to play a solo lead.

Future Projects?

I have Mirai coming up, where I play a negative role. I’ve signed a few more films, which I’ll announce soon. For now, my focus is on taking Bhairavam deep into the audience. This action drama is a make-or-break film for my career, and I’m anxious to see how it performs.