In a momentous Dussehra launch, 'The Mentor,' a multilingual action drama directed by Vinil Vasu, promises to be an exciting cinematic venture. Notably, the film is edited by the renowned Steve Bernard, known for his work on movies such as 'Chennai Express' and the 'Singham' series. The music for the film is composed by Gopi Sundar, marking his Bollywood debut.
Rana provides insight into his character, Happy Singh, who plays a pivotal role in this modern mythological sports drama. Happy Singh embodies the qualities of Bheem from the Mahabharata - a character with a kind heart and immense strength, always ready to support his friends and contribute to society. Rana considers this role a significant opportunity as it allows him to recreate the magic of this timeless character in a contemporary setting. Happy Singh is a versatile character, hailing from Punjab but residing in Kerala, which adds layers and depth to his role.
Rana emphasizes the pan-Indian appeal of the film, a unique blend of Mahabharata and sports. He highlights that, as he portrays a Sardar, there will be a substantial use of Punjabi dialogues, irrespective of the language in which the film is watched. He expresses his intention to dub in multiple languages for the film.
Regarding his connection to Kabaddi, Rana shares his childhood experiences playing the game. However, he clarifies that he is not a professional Kabaddi player and attributes his on-screen skills to extensive training and a newfound appreciation for the sport.
When asked about the commercial success of films in the post-Covid era, Rana remains optimistic, underlining the enduring demand for good entertainment and quality content. He believes that as long as the focus remains on these aspects, the film industry will continue to flourish.
Rana's preparation for the role involved immersing himself in the life of a Sardar, donning a turban, wearing a kara (metal bracelet), and even visiting a Gurudwara to delve into the mindset of Happy Singh. He meticulously constructed a detailed character background to better understand his character. His efforts also extended to familiarizing himself with Punjabi culture and language, including watching Punjabi films and undergoing Kabaddi training to grasp the game's nuances.
Rana recognizes that Kabaddi is gaining prominence in India, especially after the advent of the Pro Kabaddi League, and he believes that 'The Mentor' will contribute to this growing interest. He underscores the rich sports culture of India and its unifying role across diverse regions. He praises initiatives like Kabaddi Adda for recognizing and nurturing Kabaddi talent across the country.
In conclusion, Rana expresses his hopes for 'The Mentor' as a heartfelt dedication to all mentors. He aspires for the film to resonate with audiences, instilling appreciation for the mentors who shape the futures of many while often remaining in the background.