Double Ismart is set to hit the screens on August 15, 2024. Ram Pothineni plays the main lead, and he speaks about working in the sequel, trusting Puri Jagannath after Liger's failure, working with Sanjay Dutt, and competing with Mr. Bachchan at the box office. Here is the transcript.

How excited are you about the Double Ismart's release?

More than excited, I am a bit nervous about how the audience will react to our films. Making a sequel or second part for a hit film is always a hard task. As there are humongous expectations for the sequel, I am looking forward to seeing the reactions of the audience, especially those whom we have targeted.

Did Liger's failure affect you in signing Double Ismart?

Not at all. Puri Jagannath is a legendary director who has had big hits in his career. He gave me a new lease of life with Ismart Shankar, and when he came up with the idea of Double Ismart, I was super thrilled. My character in Double Ismart is even better than the first part. There is a lot of entertainment, and Puri Jagan narrated the film in a very entertaining manner.

What is the major difference between Ismart Shankar and Double Ismart?

The story continues from where we left off in the first part. Ismart Shankar faces new challenges, and this time, there is a mother sentiment, which is the biggest key in the film. The way the mother track is added into the storyline is just amazing. So, apart from the madness of Shankar, you will see a proper arc in the characters. The presence of Sanjay Dutt is also a huge attraction in the film.

Working with the likes of Sanjay Dutt?

We have all grown up watching Sanjay Dutt films and I was thrilled to work with him. I had a great time working with Baba and learned a lot from him. His role of Big Bull is one of the highlights and Puri has showcased Sanjay sir in such a way that we will all love it. Personally, I have built an amazing relationship with Baba.

Competition with Mr. Bachchan?

We were the first ones to announce the release date of August 15, 2024. Mr. Bachchan is also coming on the same date, and we cannot do much about it. Times have changed and I feel if the film is good, it will work despite having competition. There is healthy competition, and I am eager to see how both films fare at the box office.

How disappointed were you after Kanda's failure?

I worked hard on the film and, naturally, was disappointed big time. We gave the best output, but the audience did not like the film. I am one of those persons who does not take success or failure to heart. I give the best to every film of mine and make sure the audience sees a new avatar with each passing film.

What can we expect from your character in Double Ismart?

My character in Ismart Shankar was loved by the kids and the masses. There is a certain expectation as to what I am up to in the second part. I can assure the audience that my character will not disappoint them one bit. My dances, fights, and dialogue delivery are aimed at the masses. I feel we will surpass the expectations of the audience for sure with Double Ismart.

Future Projects?

I am busy reading scripts and have a film lined up with Harish Shankar as well. There are a few Hindi offers as well, but for now, it is one film at a time, and I am completely occupied with Double Ismart. Puri Jagan has put a lot of blood, sweat, and money into the film. The success of Double Ismart is key to everyone's career, and I hope we impress the audience.

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