KK Senthil Kumar on whether there is actually a rulebook while meeting south superstars: ‘With the biggest stars, it is like we are meeting friends’

KK Senthil Kumar on whether there is actually a rulebook while meeting south superstars: ‘With the biggest stars, it is like we are meeting friends’

• Senthil Kumar denies existence of 'dos and don'ts' lists on sets
• He says South stars are respectful and treat crew like friends
• Kumar urges audiences to watch his film Swayambhu in theatres

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A brand manager recently claimed on a podcast that she was handed a list of ’42 dos and don’ts’ before meeting Telugu superstar Allu Arjun. The Pushpa actor’s team dismissed the allegations, but the conversation had already snowballed into a larger question about star power in the South film industry and whether technicians and crew members are treated differently around big names.

Now, cinematographer K. K. Senthil Kumar, known for his work in blockbusters like Baahubali: The Beginning, Baahubali: The Conclusion and RRR, has addressed the issue head-on.

In a conversation with India Today, Senthil Kumar was asked directly whether such rulebooks actually exist on film sets. His response was calm and unequivocal.

“No, at least I have not come across anything like that. I have worked with the biggest of the stars in the South. I have never had any kind of dos and don’ts or anything like that. They are very respectful, and they have no obligation or checklist. Honestly, there is nothing like this on our sets ever. Even with the biggest stars, it is almost like we are meeting friends.”

He also spoke about how technicians are treated and whether they receive their due recognition.

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“Because of the kind of body of work I have, I am recognised and respected. I feel very blessed when I go out... people come up to talk to me. And it's thanks to the media and social media for giving a face to our skills. They write and discuss technical aspects of a film, and hence, we are getting recognition. I am blessed to be working at this present time. There have been so many legendary technicians who have done phenomenal work, but they have probably not gotten their due recognition. I am happy with whatever has come my way, and so thankful to God.”

KK Senthil Kumar concluded by turning attention to his upcoming film Swayambhu, set to release on April 10, 2026.

Emphasising the theatrical experience, he said, “You should watch it in the theatre, as it is going to be worth your time. It will also give the best possible experience, as Ravi Basu has done a great job even with the South. And apart from the visuals and sound, the actors are amazing in the film, so I am sure everyone will have a great time watching it in cinemas.”