Sai Ketan Rao wanted Surya to be a Marathi character, reveals why the makers made it South Indian instead

Sai Ketan Rao has captivated audiences with his portrayal in Star Plus' series, Imlie. While recent promos teasing Agastya's potential demise left viewers on the edge of their seats, Sai's return as a new character, Surya Reddy, has injected fresh drama and heightened excitement.

India Forums recently caught up with the talented actor to discuss his role in the show, embodying a South Indian character, the storyline, and more.

The ongoing drama in the show has really captivated the audience. How thrilling is it for you as an actor to be part of this?

It's been quite an exhilarating experience for me as an actor. I'm delving into two distinct roles, which is both exciting and challenging. Switching between these characters isn't easy, especially in the fast-paced world of television where time is limited. Each character has its own style and persona, and it's been a struggle to juggle between them. Despite the challenges, I've been working hard to bring something unique to each role. It's been heartening to see the audience respond positively to both characters. Who knows, maybe Agastya will make a comeback someday. After all, Surya and Agastya are twin brothers.

As much as the audience loved you as Agastya, it is undeniable that your charisma as Surya Reddy is ten folds, Can you share the backstory behind this character?

When I learned that Agastya's character would be concluding, it was a poignant moment for me. As an actor, I had developed a strong attachment to Agastya and had invested a lot of emotions into the role. Letting go of Agastya was indeed challenging, but I also believe in the importance of moving forward in life. Now, speaking about Surya, both he and Agastya are twin brothers, born to Meera. However, they were separated in childhood. Agastya was adopted by the Chaudhary family, while Surya was raised by a police officer, eventually becoming one himself. Initially, I suggested making the character Maharashtrian, but the creators felt that there were already many Marathi shows on air. Instead, they proposed making Surya a South Indian character, as this culture and language weren't as explored on television.

Initially, I suggested making the character Maharashtrian, but the creators felt that there were already many Marathi shows on air. Instead, they proposed making Surya a South Indian character, as this culture and language weren't as explored on television.

- Sai Ketan Rao

Since you have been a part of the South cinema, has it become easier for you to essay this character?

No no, it was not at all easy. I have been speaking and living Agastya for the past 6 months. So adapting to Surya has not been that easy. However, I know I can pull it off. 

Despite all the mystery surrounding the masked man and the current track too, the TRPs have been falling. What do u think is not resonating? 

Surya's entry in the show has been recent, and the TRPS before his track, I am not looking at them. I do not know what people do not like. As a creative person, you can just try your best and show it to the world. Nobody knows what the audience wants; we have been trying our best, and we hope the audience accepts us again. 

I do not know what people do not like. As a creative person, you can just try your best and show it to the world. Nobody knows what the audience wants; we have been trying our best, and we hope the audience accepts us again.

- Sai Ketan Rao

Are you liking Sai as Surya? Let us know in the comments below.