KR Gokul Opens Up on Working With Prithviraj Sukumaran in ‘Aadujeevitham’: “He Was Like a…” | Exclusive

KR Gokul has garnered attention with his work in ‘Aadujeevitham’, which hit screens on March 28. The film is based on Benjamin’s novel of the same name and centres on the events that transpire when a labouer (Prithviraj Sukumaran) is forced into slavery on a secluded farm in Saudi Arabia. 

The Blessy-directed film features Gokul as Hakim, the protagonist’s friend, and is a game-changer for him. In an exclusive interview with News X, the newcomer opens up about working with Prithvi and his nearly seven-year-long association with ‘Aadujeevitham’.

Edited excerpts from the interview:

How did ‘Aadujeevitham’ happen?

I bagged the role after an audition. I just enacted scenes and did what was required. Frankly speaking, I did not have any expectations when the audition happened as I was merely 17 back then. However, I felt happy when I got the role as it meant I would be working with Blessy sir, a National Award winner. 

Did you read the book before the shoot?

Yes, of course, I read the book. I read in in a single stretch. I was an emotional rollercoaster with hidden gems. 

The shoot was delayed on numerous occasions. How did you cope with these setbacks?

I joined the cast in 2017 and we were to finish this film by 2020. However, the Covid pandemic hit the world and we found ourselves stuck in Jordan. We felt sad and had to survive there. There was some uncertainty. I also did not cut my hair and beard as the shoot could start at any point. 

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We eventually shot again in 2022. The period in which we did not shoot.was tough for me as I had to maintain my body weight. I conveyed these concerns to Blessy sir and he comforted me like a father. 

How was Prithviraj as a co-star?

He was like an elder brother and treated me like a co-actor and not a newcomer. He comforted me and gave me advice. (He helped me understand) all the technicalities an up-and-coming actor needs to know.

Seeing him deliver a world-class performance was truly inspiring. 

How was the experience of working with Blessy?

Blessy sir has a clear vision about what he wants in a scene and a film. The visual is very clear in his mind and he does whatever is needed to bring it to life on the camera.

He is truly a visionary director and one of the GOATS (Greatest of All Time) filmmakers of Indian cinema.  I assisted him after the acting part and am happy to learn from him. He is like a father figure to me.

What are your plans now that ‘Aadujeevitham’ is in theatres?

Directors are pitching stories to me. However, I am yet to commit to them. I guess, I will take time to comprehend them.