Upendra is one of the most popular directors in Indian Film Industry. Making his debut with a safe comedy caper, “Tarle Nan Maga”, he has grown a lot as a director.
He is known as a trendsetter in Sandalwood with his unique films. In 90’s he directed films like “Shhh”, “Om”, “Operation Antha”, “A”, “Swastik” and “Upendra”. He turned as an actor with “A”. The film was a blockbuster upon release. He continued his success as actor with “Upendra”.
Seeing the success as actor, Upendra decided to concentrate more as an actor than a director. And here started his journey with “Remakes”. Upendra was in such stage of his career that any film he acted would become a hit. He was signed by top producers to act in remakes of popular Telugu and Hindi films. Within short period of time, he was acting only in remakes. A few of his films would be original and most of them were remakes.
However, the point to be noted here was that none of his remakes were able to make the mark as his original films. With exception of “Rakthakaneeru” and “Buddhivanta”, which were remakes, any of the characters which he played in remakes would be remembered.
So why is Upendra acting in remakes? Even when most of them are not working at box office these days, why is he giving importance to remakes?
A popular director, who would not like his name to be revealed, says “Upendra sir plays characters which are different. Unfortunately, to write a script keeping his image in mind is difficult. So he is hardly approached for original subjects. He is approached for remakes, which are safer bet. He does not interfere with the director and just works and goes. He thinks that it is better to work and earn in remakes than wait for original films. He uses his remuneration to make original films which he will direct under his production house henceforth.”
So is Uppi doing the right thing? No, say most of his fans. Vijay, a hardcore Upendra fan, who has named himself as Vijay Uppi says, “It’s really sad that Upendra sir is acting in so many remakes. It’s hard to believe that this is the same Upendra who is known for originality in his directorial ventures. I do not say he should not act in remakes. He should act, may be one in four films. However, at present it is other way round. He is hardly seen in original films. His recent released film was “Kalpana 2”, which was a remake. His next two projects are “Mukunda Murari” and “Uppi Matthe Hutthi Baa”, which are also remakes. I hope Upendra sir stops acting in remakes. Let him direct at least one film in a year. I am sure his fans will not mind waiting for his directorial than seeing him act in remakes.”
However, some people differ with Vijay’s opinion. Ranganath, a fan opines, “There is nothing wrong in acting in remakes. As there is market for his films, he is still in demand even after playing unconventional roles. There are certain films of other languages which will suit his image. So they are remade. As a fan, it does not matter if it is original or remake. I want to enjoy his film, that’s it.”
Upendra is undoubtedly one of most talented persons in Sandalwood. He has already made a name for himself and will be remembered in years to come for his contribution. But it would surely be great if he stops acting in remakes. He has a huge fan following in southern states. He should act in original films, which can be dubbed or shot in different languages. This will also increase his market. It is high time Upendra stops acting in remakes and concentrate on original subjects.
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