Murali Sharma: ‘I Cannot Express What Chiranjeevi Means to Me’ (EXCLUSIVE)

For “Super Subbu” actor Murali Sharma, working with Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi goes far beyond their collaborations on screen. Working with the megastar is always special, rooted in genuine admiration and deep respect for the person behind the star. Sharma has worked with Chiranjeevi in films like “GodFather” (2022) and “Bhola Shankar” (2023). They will once again share screen space in an untitled film. Sharma says Chiranjeevi’s generosity and warmth have made a lasting impression on him.

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Sharing an anecdote during the shoot of “GodFather,” which was a remake of Mohanlal’s “Lucifer,” Sharma says, “I struggled a bit on the first day of the film. On the second day, I had some ideas for my role. I discussed it with the director and then requested Chiranjeevi if we could reshoot some parts from the first day. He was very generous to do so.”

That gesture stayed with Sharma, who says his equation with Chiranjeevi is now beyond that of co-stars. “I cannot express what Chiranjeevi means to me. I call him “Annayya,” which means elder brother in Telugu. He is so humble for his stature. He laughs, smiles and even blushes at times.”

The admiration extends to the little moments they share off-camera as well. Sharma fondly speaks about the legendary actor’s love for food and his fondness for Chiranjeevi’s homemade pickle. He adds, “I love the pickle that comes from his house. We are currently shooting a new film, the working title is 'Mega 158.’ On the set yesterday, he brought one big bottle of pickle and told his manager to pack as much as I want.”

While shooting together, Sharma makes the most of the time they get to spend together. “When we are shooting, I pull up a chair and talk to him. He goes back to the ’80s and ’90s, when I got introduced to Telugu cinema. I even sing some songs, and he does the steps with precision while sitting in his chair,” he fondly shares.

For Sharma, Chiranjeevi’s stature as a superstar is matched only by his ability to make people around him feel comfortable. He says, “This is my third film with him, and yet I have trouble looking into his eyes due to his presence and aura. But he puts me at ease every time. He makes me feel comfortable. I request him for too many rehearsals because I have that habit, and always agree to it.”