Varun Tej: ‘I see his effort and everything… where I want to get someday’: Varun Tej on ‘father figure’ and cousin Ram Charan’s success, comparisons, and their close bond | Telugu Movie News

Varun Tej on Ram Charan: "He’s Like a Father Figure to Me"

Hyderabad, India – Acclaimed Telugu actor Varun Tej Konidela has offered a candid insight into his deep admiration for cousin and superstar Ram Charan, revealing that he views Charan’s remarkable success not as a point of comparison, but as a profound source of inspiration and even a "father figure."

In a recent interview with NDTV, Varun Tej elaborated on his perspective, emphasizing that he chooses to focus on the immense effort and dedication behind Ram Charan’s illustrious career. This approach, he explained, allows him to navigate the often-intense scrutiny and comparisons prevalent within the film industry, particularly for actors hailing from prominent film families.

"I mean, I look at my brother, Charan; he’s a pretty big actor; he’s a very big star," Varun Tej stated. "But when I look at him, I see his effort and everything in a sense of where I want to get someday. I see it only in a positive way and not in a comparative state where it kills your joy."

The ‘Korean Kanagaraju’ actor further expressed a strong desire to collaborate with his cousin on screen, highlighting their close bond. "I’d love to work with him. I really, really adore him. I mean, he’s like a father figure to me, honestly," he confessed.

Navigating Comparisons in a Cinematic Legacy

Being part of one of Telugu cinema’s most revered families, the Konidelas, naturally places Varun Tej under constant public scrutiny and comparison with his celebrated relatives. However, he maintains a pragmatic outlook, believing that each performer forges their own unique path.

While acknowledging that comparisons are an unavoidable aspect of the film industry, Varun Tej emphasized his refusal to let such discussions diminish his happiness or self-confidence. Instead, he views comparisons as a potential source of motivation, preferring to channel his energy into personal growth and artistic ambitions rather than succumbing to the pressure.

"It’s always a struggle every Friday," he reflected, alluding to the inherent challenges of filmmaking. "It’s more about trying to understand what the audience wants to see you in, what suits you best and what strengths you have as an actor. It’s always important to strike a good balance between novelty and still giving the audience the entertainment that they want."

A Father-Son Duo on Screen: Varun Tej to Star with His Father in ‘Bhari’

In an exciting development, Varun Tej also confirmed that he will be sharing screen space with his father in the upcoming film ‘Bhari’. This marks a significant moment for the actor, who has often been asked about the possibility of such a collaboration.

"Yes, many people keep asking me about sharing screen space with my father, and here is the good news," Varun Tej shared, as quoted by Cinema Express. "In my upcoming film Bhari, I am going to share screen space with my father. It is really nice that we are playing a real-life father and son in reel life too."

‘Korean Kanagaraju’ Receives Positive Response

On the professional front, Varun Tej was recently seen in the horror-comedy film ‘Korean Kanagaraju’. The movie has garnered a generally positive reception from audiences following its theatrical release, further cementing Varun Tej’s versatile acting prowess and his commitment to exploring diverse genres. His insightful comments on family, ambition, and the craft of acting offer a compelling glimpse into the mindset of a rising star navigating the complexities of one of India’s most celebrated film industries.