Venkatesh says working with director Sudha Kongara in forthcoming Telugu sports drama "Guru", which is slated for release on March 31, changed him as an actor.
A remake of "Saala Khadoos", the film features Venkatesh as a washed - up boxing coach.
Talking about the film, Venkatesh told IANS: "Sudha brought this story to me three years ago.
Unfortunately, I couldn't take it up because I was unwell.
She went ahead and did the film with Madhavan.
When I saw the film, I was so moved that I hugged her.
I told her in that instant that I'll do it. "
Even though he has been part of several successful films over the years, "Guru" is very special for Venkatesh.
"It changed me as a person and actor.
I learnt so much from this project and the whole credit goes to Sudha.
It's for the first time in my career that I read a full - bound script before shooting a project.
It helped me prepare myself better, " he said.
The "Drishyam" actor also credits Sudha for making efforts to change his on - screen presence.
"She took the pain of going through most of my films and changed my look.
Though I play a guru in the film, I surrendered to Sudha while shooting.
She is my guru and working with her changed my perspective of how I look at roles, " he said.
Venkatesh admits it has been his long - time desire to do a sports film.
"I have always yearned to do a sports film.
Not long ago, I was offered a cricket - based subject but it wasn't convincing enough for me to accept.
Though it's been a long wait to do one, I'm glad I got to do a project like 'Guru', " he said.
The 56 - year - old sports a salt - and - pepper look in the film.
He is happy to have played his age.
"I didn't wear any make - up.
I'm proud to have played my age.
When we were shooting in Bheemunipatnam, a lot of people told me that I should continue doing such roles, " he said, adding he decided to do "Guru" because he was bored of the monotony in his career.
The film also stars Ritika Singh as Venkatesh's protege, a fish - vendor - turned - boxing champion.
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