In an industry often driven by speed and volume, actor Jana Nathan stands out with a deliberate and thoughtful approach to his career. The assistant director-turned-performer, last seen in the film Desingu Raja 2, his sole release this year, says he is in no hurry. He believes in being selective, mindful of the ever-changing trends and audience preferences.
A Mindful Approach in a Fast-Paced Industry
Jana Nathan consciously chooses to take his career slowly. He explained that the cinematic landscape is constantly evolving, with audience tastes shifting over time. Rather than chasing every opportunity, he prefers to wait for the right projects that resonate with him. This patience, he feels, is key to building a sustainable and meaningful career in films.
His latest appearance was in S Ezhil's directorial 'Desingu Raja 2', where he played a significant second lead role. Jana admitted to feeling initial nervousness on set, primarily because the film featured many senior artists. However, he was quickly put at ease by the supportive team, including co-star Vemal, who treated him well. The importance of his role motivated him to deliver his best performance.
Embracing Diversity: From Hero to Villain
Jana Nathan, known for his work in films like Kathakali, Bruce Lee, Semma, and Pechi, has a clear vision for his acting journey. He does not want to be confined to only playing the hero. He is openly ready and eager to take on second lead characters and even villainous roles.
He cites the versatile career of actor Vijay Sethupathi as a major inspiration. Sethupathi's ability to seamlessly transition between protagonist and antagonist roles is a model Jana aspires to follow. This mindset reflects a modern approach to acting in Indian cinema, where an actor's versatility is prized over rigid typecasting.
The Defining Question: Desire or Passion?
Before embarking on his full-time acting career, Jana had a pivotal conversation with his father. When he expressed his interest in acting, his father posed a profound question: "Do you want to act out of desire or passion?"
Jana confessed that he didn't fully grasp the distinction at that moment. However, with time and experience, he gradually understood the deep difference between a fleeting desire and a enduring passion. This introspection led him to a firm conclusion: acting is both his calling and his true passion. This realization now fuels his careful selection of roles and his dedication to the craft, ensuring that every project he undertakes is driven by genuine love for the art of performance.
