From Engineer to Actor: The Journey of Koneru Lakshman Havish

An interview with Koneru Lakshman Havish, prominent actor of Telugu cinema known for his thoughtful performances and diverse role choices.

In this interview, we engage with Koneru Lakshman Havish, a rising star in Telugu cinema whose thoughtful performances and eclectic role choices have quickly set him apart. Known for his versatility and dedication, Havish shares his journey, inspirations, and how he approaches each character with authenticity and passion.

Can you share your journey into the film industry and what inspired you to pursue acting in Telugu cinema?

Koneru Lakshman Havish: My journey into acting started with a handful of auditions—just testing the waters, really. One of those eventually led to my first role, and from there, things gradually began to fall into place.

I went on to work in Genius, followed by Ramleela, Seven, Yes Boss, and now I’m excited to be gearing up for the project in  Trinadha Rao’s upcoming film.

What truly drew me to this field was the sheer magic of cinema—the ability to be part of stories that captivate, inspire, and leave a lasting impression on people.

I’ve always viewed acting through the lens of an audience, and that perspective keeps me grounded. It reminds me why I do this—to be a part of something meaningful, something that connects.

How do you choose the roles you take on, and what factors influence your decision-making process?

Koneru Lakshman Havish: I approach every narration from the perspective of the audience. If a story can hold my attention and make me feel something as I listen, that’s when I know it’s worth being a part of.

For me, it’s never about the genre—any genre can be compelling if the storytelling is strong. What truly matters is whether the script connects, engages, and resonates on a genuine level.

Your performances often reflect a deep understanding of your characters. How do you prepare for a role to ensure authenticity?

Koneru Lakshman Havish: My process is simple yet deeply focused—I start by understanding the vision of the director and the intent behind the story.

Once I’m clear on what they expect from the character, I step into that world and think, feel, and act as the character would. Each role is a departure from who I am, so it always demands a conscious shift in mindset.

For me, it’s all about aligning myself with the director’s vision and bringing that character to life with authenticity.

Can you discuss a particular role that challenged you the most and what you learned from that experience?

Koneru Lakshman Havish: Honestly, every role has been a challenge because none of the characters I’ve portrayed are anything like me.

Each director brings a unique vision and sets of expectations, and adapting to that is where the real work begins. It’s never about being yourself—it’s about completely stepping into someone else’s shoes.

That constant transformation, the push to evolve with every role, is what keeps me inspired and growing as an artist.

How has the Telugu film industry changed since you started, and what trends do you see shaping its future?

Koneru Lakshman Havish: When I started out, we were still shooting on film, the actual reels that were costly and limited. Every take counted, and the pressure to get it right the first time was intense. Today, with digital technology and AI, filmmaking has transformed dramatically.

Tools like green screens and virtual production have revolutionized the way we bring stories to life. In the end, cinema is all about fantasy—crafting worlds beyond reality—and technology is now giving us incredible new ways to imagine and create those worlds.

Who are some of your biggest influences in the industry, and how have they impacted your acting style?

Koneru Lakshman Havish: Yes, there are a couple of people who are legends and successful in this industry, have inspired me in some way. Watching great artists captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact motivates me to keep pushing myself and growing.

I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible directors like Prabhu Garu, Ashok Garu, and now Trinadha Rao Garu—each of them has brought a unique perspective and taught me something truly valuable.

I’ve also gained deep insights into script structure and storytelling from Chinnikrishna Garu, a brilliant technician whose understanding of cinema is truly remarkable.

Can you share any memorable experiences or interactions with co-stars or directors that have shaped your career?

Koneru Lakshman Havish: I’ve been lucky to have positive experiences with most of my co-stars and directors. Every film has been a journey of learning and growth.

Collaborating with renowned production houses and seasoned filmmakers like Omkar Chinni Krishna Garu has given me insights beyond just acting—it’s helped me understand the entire ecosystem of filmmaking.

That kind of mentorship and creative collaboration has been instrumental in shaping me, both as an actor and as a storyteller.

Are there any specific genres or types of films you aspire to explore in the future?

Koneru Lakshman Havish: I don’t gravitate toward any particular genre—it’s always the story that matters most to me.

If a script grabs my attention and keeps me engaged, then I know it’s the right project, whether it’s action, drama, romance, or something completely experimental. I’m always open to exploring fresh, meaningful stories that leave a lasting impact.

What advice would you give to aspiring actors looking to make their mark in the Telugu film industry?

Koneru Lakshman Havish: My advice is simple: love what you do and be patient with the journey. Success doesn’t come overnight—every industry demands dedication, persistence, and genuine passion. Trust the process, stay open to learning, and keep moving forward.

If you’re honest with your craft and consistent in your efforts, the right opportunities will find you.

Havish’s commitment to diverse storytelling marks him as a promising talent in the industry. As he continues to challenge himself with new roles, his thoughtful approach and dedication promise to enrich Telugu cinema, inspiring both peers and audiences with every character he brings to life on the silver screen.

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