Actor-filmmaker R Madhavan says receiving the Padma Shri has added a new sense of responsibility to his career, even as he enjoys the success of Dhurandhar, one of the most talked about films of the year.In a recent conversation with DD News, the actor reflected on the importance of being honored with the prestigious civilian award and how it changed his outlook on his work.“This award made me realize that it comes with responsibility. There is honor attached to it, but there is also a sense of duty. It feels like everything I have done so far is just the beginning.The actor admits that while choosing films, the current Padma Shri honor sometimes influences his thought process.“When choosing a role, I first ask if it fits my personality and fits my body of work. Somewhere later in the process, the thought comes if a Padma Shri has received a particular role,” he shared.
Dhurandhar works because everyone believes the story
Madhavan also opened up about the extraordinary response to Dhurandhar, saying that the film’s success came from the team’s collective commitment to telling an important story rather than chasing commercial gains.“I’ve always believed that when a film is backed by solid research and made with a genuine desire to tell an important story — not just to make money — it’s not ordinary,” he said.According to the actor, every member of the cast and crew invested heavily in the project.“In Dhurandhar’s case, every actor and technician invested heavily in the project. It became difficult to separate the character from the performer because everyone was so honest,” explained Madhavan.He added that the film’s portrayal of a progressive and empowered India resonated strongly with the audience, especially the young audience.“The film tells the story of a progressive, advanced and empowered India. When stories like that are told honestly, people connect with them. Young audiences go to theaters and feel proud after watching the film,” he said.
“The film must win”
Reflecting on his career choices, Madhavan emphasized that he has never approached a project with the intention of making his own role stand out from others.“My responsibility is to give everything I have to the character. I never enter a film thinking that my role should be the one audiences remember the most. For me, that approach is selfish because it doesn’t help the film,” he said.The actor added that the success of the overall project remains more important than individual praise.“If the film doesn’t work, individual appreciation means little. Ultimately, the film should win,” concluded Madhavan.
