Saif Ali Khan reveals Jr NTR decided to cast him in Devara after watching his performance in Omkara

Saif Ali Khan opened up about his latest project, Devara and how Jr NTR played a pivotal role in his casting for the film in the trailer launch event of Devara. During the trailer launch event for Devara, Saif revealed that both Jr NTR and director Koratala Siva were impressed by his performance in Omkara, a Vishal Bhardwaj film released 18 years ago—and this led them to cast him in Devara.

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“I am glad that Tarak ji wanted me in it and Siva sir wanted me in it. I think they’d seen Omkara and remembered it. I should thank Vishal ji still,” said Saif at the trailer launch in Mumbai. His role in Omkara as the complex antagonist Langda Tyagi was critically acclaimed, and it seems that this performance left a lasting impression on Jr NTR, who is headlining Devara.

Speaking more about his role in the film, Saif explained that his character, Bhaira, is multifaceted. “It’s a very interesting character. There’s a young version, there’s an older version, there’s crazy make-up. Also, it’s more like an anti-hero than a straight antagonist. There are many layers to it,” he said. This insight into his character has generated significant buzz among fans, as it promises to showcase Saif in a dynamic and multi-dimensional role.

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Devara marks Saif Ali Khan’s first foray into Telugu cinema, and the actor has spoken highly of his experience working in the South Indian film industry. “It is like an entry into a new kind of cinema and according to me, a cutting edge of Indian cinema right now,” Saif shared, reflecting on the shift he sees in the industry. He added, “I was really excited to get an offer from a big movie made from the South industry, they’ve made some incredible movies. And I think the future is going to be collaborations between North and South.”

The trailer for Devara has given fans a glimpse of Saif’s rugged look in the film, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. His intense appearance, coupled with the dynamic storyline, promises to make Devara, a major cinematic event.

Besides Saif and Jr NTR, the film also stars Janhvi Kapoor, marking her debut in Telugu cinema as well. Directed by Koratala Siva, Devara Part 1 is produced by Yuva Sudha Arts and NTR Arts and presented by Nandamuri Kalyan Ram. The film will be released in two parts, and two songs—Chuttamalle and Fear Song have already been released, generating significant excitement among fans.

As Saif Ali Khan steps into the world of Telugu cinema, his collaboration with Jr NTR and Koratala Siva is being closely watched. With his portrayal of Bhaira in Devara, Saif is set to add another memorable character to his diverse filmography, bridging the gap between Bollywood and the South Indian film industry.