Playing a character with a disability can be a challenging proposition for any actor, particularly in an industry where heroes are often celebrated for their physical strength, action sequences and larger-than-life screen presence. However, several Telugu actors have stepped away from their conventional hero image to portray characters with physical and sensory disabilities, delivering some memorable performances in the process.
Ram Charan believes portraying such characters requires considerable preparation and control over one’s expressions. “It is difficult to play a character with a disability because you have to convey emotions and expressions differently, without relying on certain physical gestures. It is quite a challenge. I played a character with hearing impairment in Rangasthalam and received a lot of appreciation. It is always challenging to take up such roles. Young actor Anish has also played a character with a speech impairment in upcoming film Itlu Arjuna, and he has done a good job,” he says.
Recently, Tamil star Suriya also took up a challenging role portraying a visually impaired character in Scene, demonstrating his willingness to experiment with different roles. Producer Raj Kandukuri believes established stars taking up such characters helps audiences see them beyond their larger-than-life screen image.
“Big stars playing characters with disabilities helps audiences connect with them on a more human level. Heroes are usually placed on a pedestal and presented as invincible. When they portray characters with physical or sensory limitations, it offers a refreshing change and allows audiences to see another side of them. It also gives actors an opportunity to explore different dimensions of their craft,” says Raj Kandukuri.
Earlier, Akkineni Nagarjuna delivered a memorable performance in Oopiri, playing a wealthy businessman who becomes quadriplegic following an accident and is confined to a wheelchair. His character explores loneliness, friendship, independence and emotional healing. “Nagarjuna’s performance in Oopiri will remain one of the understated yet impactful roles of his career. He moved away from his usual image and brought considerable emotional depth to the character,” adds Kandukuri.
Ravi Teja, too, took up a different challenge in Raja The Great, playing a visually impaired man who uses his other senses and instincts to overcome obstacles and protect the woman he loves. The film presented a visually impaired protagonist in a mainstream commercial entertainer, with Ravi Teja bringing his trademark energy to the role.
Young actors have also explored similar characters. Raj Tarun played a visually impaired radio jockey in Andhhagadu, while Aadhi Pinisetty portrayed a visually impaired chef in the thriller Neevevaro. Both films placed characters with visual impairment at the centre of their narratives.
“What makes these performances interesting is the willingness of actors to move away from the conventional commercial-hero template. Rather than relying entirely on action, glamour and physical prowess, they have attempted to portray characters whose strengths lie in their personalities, determination and emotional journeys.” concludes Raj Kandukuri
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