I never yearn for stardom: Simbu

Actor Simbu, despite being active in Tamil filmdom for over two decades, says he has never yearned for stardom. He credits his upbringing for this attitude towards his career and life.

"I don't even remember the first time that I faced the camera. I come from a family of actors and since I started acting at a very young age, I experienced stardom at a time when I didn't even understand it. I was too young to even realise why people would pinch my cheek when I used to go out with my dad," Simbu, son of popular Tamil actor-filmmaker T. Rajendher, told IANS.

Having witnessed stardom from close quarters from a very young age, he said he never aspired for it.

"My parents raised us in such a way that my brother (Kuralarasan) and I never got carried away by fame and stardom. We were always prepared for the worst. Tomorrow, even if nobody is willing to produce a film with me, I know I can make my own film," he said.

Simbu's forthcoming Tamil romantic comedy, "Idhu Namma Aalu", will hit the screens on Friday. It is finally releasing after a long delay, much like his last release "Vaalu".

Admitting that his career went through a roller-coaster ride over the last few years, Simbu said: "For people who don't know how they climbed up the success ladder, it will always be a struggle to climb up when they fall down. I worked my way up to the ladder, so I know I can get back where I belong."

In the last four years, Simbu has had just two releases. The interim gap, he points out, has helped him self-introspect.

"I've grown fond of spirituality and life. I found answers to a lot of questions about myself and to other things around me," he explained, adding that he feels he has become a better individual.

In Pandiraj-directed "Idhu Namma Aalu", Simbu is paired with his former lover Nayanthara, and he says the film is unlike anything audiences have seen from him before.

"I haven't done anything like this. The film has no fight scenes, no introduction song, and even the special number 'Maaman Waiting' isn't as glamorous as how such songs are usually shot. In a way, it's a risk that I'm doing this project but I still chose to do it because of its story," he said.

The film throws the spotlight on the months leading to a wedding.

"When audiences watch the film, they can easily relate to the story. The conversations between Nayanthara and me will particularly appeal to every young couple. This is the kind of film that will work even with a newcomer. However, it will do much better with a star and that's why I was interested in doing it," he added.

"Idhu Namma Aalu" introduces Simbu's brother Kuralarasan as composer.

Lauding him, Simbu said: "When I work with other composers, I sit and get the kind of songs I want. Kural knows what exactly I want and he will strive hard to deliver it. He gave me the kind of tunes that he knew I will like. His contribution has been phenomenal and I'd love to collaborate with him again."

Soon after the release of "Idhu Namma Aalu", Simbu plans to go on a holiday. Upon return, he will resume work on Tamil thriller "Anbanavan Asaradhavan Adangadhavan", while awaiting the release of Tamil action-drama "Achcham Yenbathu Madamaiyada".