Popular actor Krishna Bharadwaj is back in the much-loved role of Tenali Rama after a long hiatus. Sony SAB’s much-appreciated show Tenali Rama is back and audiences are waiting with bated breaths for the return of this comedy historical drama.
Here is Krishna talking exclusively to IWMBuzz.com about his return in the titular role, the new season of Tenali Rama and the scope he bags as a performer with this beautiful journey.
Read on.
What was your first reaction like when you were told about Tenali Rama coming back? Did you feel this would ever happen?
I had been manifesting that Tenali Rama should come back. But at the same time, I was contemplating whether I should do something more challenging or different as an actor. But for three years, that didn’t happen. Last year, we had talks about it, but nothing materialized, and I lost all hope. I wasn’t expecting it anymore. It took time for me to really believe it was happening, and I only truly felt it when I went bald and saw myself in the mirror. That’s when it all sank in, and I realized—Tenali Rama 2 is happening. As the saying goes, you get things when you least expect them. It felt like a blessing, and I am so happy to be back.
How does it feel to be back as Tenali Rama?
Tenali Rama is such a big part of me. I spent three, and a half years with this character, doing 800 episodes, and it left me incredibly happy. That feeling of happiness stays with me and reflects in my personal life. So, knowing Tenali Rama 2 is happening is truly exciting. Not many shows have male leads at my age, and it’s amazing that Tenali Rama is back. It’s a deeply satisfying feeling for me.
You shaved your head recently for the role. Tell us about it.
The first time around, the only condition was that I had to go bald for the role. I was just looking for work, so I didn’t think much about it and was just excited to get started. But this time, I had really taken care of my hair, and it was thick and healthy, so it was tougher to let go of it. Personally, I do like myself with hair, but I understand that in this profession, it’s about giving your best. For my career and my love for acting, I am willing to do whatever it takes.
Will viewers see any added attraction or attribute in Tenali Rama now?
This time, Tenali Rama will be more emotional and deeply devoted to the cases he fights for. He will be portrayed as a true Bharadwaj ka mahanayak not just doing comedy but showcasing his historical significance. While the wit and humor from the first season will still be there, this season will highlight his grand persona as a warrior and a true hero. Also, we have four new kids of different age groups joining the cast. It will be fun working with them, and I am really looking forward to it!
Most of the cast is back in Tenali Rama. How does it feel to be back with the family?
I call Nimisha Ji Amma, just like in the Tenali Rama days. We meet about three or four times a year and always have a great time together. I am really close to her, and it’s amazing to have Priyamvada, who played my first Sharda, back on the show. People loved our chemistry, and it’s still as great as ever. As for Tathacharya, we have this Tom and Jerry dynamic, so it’s always fun working with him. Overall, the family feel on this show is unmatched. I have never done a second season with the same team, crew, cameraman, creative director, and production. It feels like a homecoming.
What have you to say about the audience’s excitement for the show coming back?
The audience excitement has been huge! I have been hearing great things, and even the channel is thrilled with the response. On social media, people have been actively engaging and showing just how eager they are. They even requested the 8 PM time slot, so we listened and made it happen. It’s amazing to see this level of excitement—our show has such a loyal fan base, and now the goal is to attract new viewers as well.
What are the memories that have touched you after the news got out?
The memories from Tenali Rama have been incredibly enriching, both as an actor and as a person. It helped me grow in my career and brought a lot of happiness. From the first season, there are so many moments—like creating the character, shaving my head, and doing things my way. Tenali has always been a benchmark in my life, and these memories are precious to me. I am truly blessed to now have the chance to create even more as we begin this new chapter with Tenali Rama.
How does the performer in Krishna feel like bagging this scope again?
The performer in me is a greedy soul, always craving more challenges and growth. This time, the challenge is to explore Tenali Rama differently—people have seen one version in the past, but after four years, there has to be growth. I am working on how to add new layers and physicalities to the character, writing and thinking about it constantly. It’s exciting because this role has once again given me something to dive into, and that makes the performer in me very happy.
What do you have to say about the trend of popular shows of the past coming back with new seasons?
We Indians are deeply emotional and always connected to our memories, which is why nostalgia resonates so much with us. Shows like Wagle Ki Duniya, Khichdi, and Sarabhai vs Sarabhai have left such a lasting impact, and I have loved seeing their new seasons. Now, with Sony announcing the return of CID, Aahat, and Tenali Rama, there’s so much excitement. I have been getting messages on social media like, ‘My childhood is back!’ because many have grown up watching these shows. After 8 years—4 years of the show and 4 years of a gap—it’s heartwarming to see how Tenali Rama still brings happiness and nostalgia to people. That’s what makes this journey so special.
What do you think is the USP of the new season?
This time, Tenali Rama is coming as your friend. In the previous season, Rama was mostly an entertainer, solving cases, but now he will be there to solve your problems. The show tackles current societal issues with humour, making it unique. It brings out deep messages in a light-hearted way, which is the USP. While there are villains, the show remains positive and progressive, promoting the right values without any negativity. That’s what makes Tenali Rama so special and loved.
What do you have to say to your fans?
The excitement from our fans has been amazing! They have been so engaged and supportive, and it’s heartwarming to see them eager for Tenali Rama’s return. To all the fans, thank you for your love and continued support. We are back, and this time, we are taking it to another level!
