In South Indian cinema, it is not unusual for music directors to turn actors. In Tamil, composers like GV Prakash Kumar and Vijay Antony successfully moved from composing to acting. They built steady careers in front of the camera while continuing their music work.
In Telugu cinema, however, the results have been mixed. RP Patnaik tried acting but did not find much success as a lead hero. Thaman also appeared on screen early in his career, but that phase was brief, and he soon focused entirely on music.
Now, one of Telugu cinema’s biggest composers, Devi Sri Prasad, is ready to take that leap. After years of speculation, it is now official that he will play the lead role in Yellamma, directed by Venu Yeldandi, who earlier made Balagam.
The main question is how he will balance acting and composing. Devi has said he has a clear plan. He intends to dedicate around 10 days a month to shooting and use the remaining time for music. Producer Dil Raju has reportedly assured full support for this arrangement.
Devi also revealed that he nearly debuted as an actor years ago. Director Sukumar had once planned to introduce him as a hero. However, after the sudden death of his father and due to personal reasons, the project did not materialize. Over time, filmmakers like Trivikram Srinivas and Harish Shankar, along with Dil Raju, encouraged him to consider acting seriously.
After years of thought, Devi Sri Prasad has finally decided to face the camera. It remains to be seen how audiences will receive him in his new role as a lead actor.
At present, he is composing music for Ustaad Bhagat Singh, starring Pawan Kalyan. The first single, “Dekh Lenge Saala,” has already impressed fans. Alongside this, he continues to work on other projects.
He is currently busy with rerecording work for Ustaad Bhagat Singh. From March onward, he plans to begin shooting for Yellamma while continuing his music career. For now, he appears confident about managing both responsibilities carefully.
