Not riding on Vijay Sethupathi's popularity: Ashwin

Actor Ashwin Kakumanu, who has teamed up with Vijay Sethupathi in upcoming Tamil comedy "Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara" (IAB), says he didn't sign the film to cash in on Vijay's popularity but because of what the role had to offer him.

Vijay Sethupathi is the most sought after actor of contemporary Tamil cinema after delivering back-to-back hits such as "Pizza", "Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom" and "Soodhu Kavvum".

"I chose to work based on what the role had to offer to me as an actor. The very thought that I might be piggybacking on Vijay's popularity never even crossed my mind. Moreover, I have only two scenes with him in the film," Ashwin told IANS.

"My role in this film is totally different from what I have played in the past. As an actor, I'm always keen on doing different films," he said.

Ashwin, who rose to fame with his performance in Tamil action-drama "Mankatha", is simultaneously working on Tamil romantic-thriller "Megha".

"If IAB is an out-and-out comedy entertainer, 'Megha' is completely different. I'm sure 'Megha' will definitely make people think. It's a story-driven film with very powerful characters," he added.

Quizzed about his working experience with Vijay Sethupathi, he said: "One thing that I observed working with Vijay is that he doesn't really demand to be treated like a hero. He doesn't ask for the typical hero build up in Tamil films. It's good that Tamil industry is moving away from such cliches."