I knew I would be in films’

Vikram plays a mahout in Kumki and spent an incredible 53 days with the elephant.

Vikram Prabhu has a sound academic background, has assisted director Vishnu Vardhan for Sarvam, and took charge of production for Asal; after which he decided to chase his dreams of becoming an actor and approached Prabhu Solomon.

He underwent two weeks of training — learning to tame elephants for his debut film Kumki. Despite belonging to Tamil cinema’s leading filmy family — he is Sivaji Ganesan’s grandson and Prabhu’s son — Vikram Prabhu chose the correct channel.

He started his career in films by taking one step at a time, acquiring all-round knowledge. “I always knew that I would be in films, but I wanted to go through the right process,” says Vikram Prabhu.

Surprisingly, he says that his grandfather, the legendary Sivaji Ganesan, had always insisted on education rather than films. Vikram says, “My granddad did not speak much about films with us.

He always insisted on the best schooling and higher studies. As he missed out on his education, he was very particular that we finish our studies and then get into films.”

Vikram’s roots are in theatre. He has a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts from the San Diego State University, USA. “I have studied everything to do with theatre — from production to costumes.

My work experience with Vishnu in Sarvam helped me to learn the working style here down South. When I handled production for Asal, it was again a chance for me to know all about films.”

In his debut film Kumki, Vikram plays a mahout and shot with an elephant named Manikkam for 53 days. He says, “It was a gut feeling that made me take up Kumki.

I spent a fantastic 53 days with the elephant. When I first saw him, I thought he was huge. As days passed, I didn’t find him that big — I know him very well now and he is very close to me,” says Vikram.

Kamal Haasan and Rajini launched the audio of Kumki. “They have always been a part of my family. I felt at home when they both attended the audio launch,” states Vikram. Hailing from a legendary family, does he feel the pressure now?

“Yes, I feel the pressure the moment people address me as Sivaji’s grandson and Prabhu’s son,” he admits. “But, I am confident about my work and right now,” he signs off.