'Maa Abbayi', starring Sree Vishnu in lead role, will hit the screens on March 17. In this interview, the actor talks about why his upcoming movie is different, and more.

Going by the trailer, 'MA' seems to be a costly, commercial movie. Isn't it?

The subject has a lot of span. Of all my movies, the budget expended on 'Maa Abbayi' is rather more. Since I don't have such a market, I had second thoughts. But the producer was very confident and decided to go ahead. This subject needed this budget.

What made the producer spend so much? Is the story line a novel one?

The story line is nothing new. The hero's family faces a problem and he has to solve it. But the way it's detailed in terms of the screenplay is very novel for a commercial movie. The story is based on a real-life incident which happened in Hyderabad 2-3 years ago and which became a talked-about incident in the two Telugu States.

What is the title justification?

'Maa abbayi..' is frequently used by parents. The family audience will like the film. I play a confident and open-minded guy. My acting doesn't involve much movements. It's measured. The action scenes are there as a part of the story, not for the sake of it. Any guy would react to the problems his family is facing in that way. The problem faced by the hero has a social angle. I think the problems which youngsters aged between 20-30 are almost the same. Stories based on such problems will establish a connect with the audience.

How was it working with the director?

I have known director Kumar Vatti right from the days of 'Solo'. After watching the movie, people will talk about his work. Producer Balaga Prakash garu has made the film without compromising on quality anywhere.

So far, you haven't been seen in solo hero movies of this range. What is your feeling?

It is feeling new to see myself as a solo hero. I never planned to be multi-lead movies. They just happened that way.

How do you see the success of your last movie. After 'Maa Abbayi', will you like to be called a commercial hero?

The success of 'Appatlo Okadundevadu' was unexpected. The response from the audience was encouraging. After that movie, many thought my name is Railway Raju. Likewise, I hope, they will see me after my character in 'Maa Abbayi'. If an actor is called by his character's name, it means he or she has done full justice to the role.

I want to try all kinds of movies. I don't want to be labelled as a commercial hero and be offered routine roles.

What are your next releases?

'Mental Madhilo' and 'Needi Naadi Oke Katha' are ready for release. A few films in big banners are in talks.