Actor Satya Dev, who delivered a striking performance as Shiva in the recently released blockbuster Kingdom, is basking in the love and recognition pouring in from audiences and the film fraternity alike. The action-packed emotional drama, headlined by Vijay Deverakonda and directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, hit theatres on July 31 and has been making waves both critically and commercially.
Produced by Suryadevara Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas, Kingdom features music by Anirudh Ravichander and showcases the emotional bond between two brothers set against a gangster backdrop. Satya Dev’s performance as the emotionally intense and rugged Shiva has become one of the film’s biggest highlights.
In a candid conversation with the media, Satya Dev opened up about how the role came to him, his experience on set, and why Kingdom is a milestone in his career.
On the response to Shiva:
“I’ve never experienced this kind of recognition before. Since the very first show, my phone hasn’t stopped buzzing with messages and calls. It’s overwhelming and heartwarming. I immediately said yes when Gowtam narrated the story it hit me deeply.”
“Bluff Master earned me critical appreciation, but Kingdom took me to the masses instantly. The scale of the film, and Vijay’s massive reach, made all the difference.”
How the role happened:
“Gowtam had envisioned me for Shiva right from the start, but with delays, they considered others. Just a few days before filming, he approached me again. Once I heard the full script, I was in no second thoughts.”
He later told me, ‘You were always Shiva in my mind.’ That moment gave me goosebumps. Some roles truly feel like destiny.”
On the impact of the action sequences:
“Action works only when it’s driven by emotion. That’s exactly what Kingdom nails. Every blow, every confrontation is tied to the characters' inner turmoil. That emotional backbone is what’s connecting with viewers.”
Toughest scene to shoot:
There’s a jail sequence where Shiva confronts his brother with restrained emotion that was emotionally draining. On the physical front, the pre-climax fight pushed me to my limits. But the audience reaction made every bruise worth it.”
The boat sequence:
That one was intense! I didn’t know how to drive a boat, yet I had to steer it with Vijay sitting inside while battling a strong current. It was risky we almost crashed a couple of times. But with practice, I managed to pull it off safely.”
On working with Venkatesh (Murugan):
Venkatesh might be new, but his performance feels seasoned. Even while filming, we sensed his impact. He’s earned every bit of the praise coming his way.”
On Vijay Deverakonda:
“This was my first project with Vijay, and he turned out to be an amazing co-star. We bonded quickly it genuinely felt like working with a younger brother. He’s deeply committed to his craft and brings a lot of intensity to every scene.”
On producer Naga Vamsi:
Vamsi garu is fearless. When he believes in a story, he goes all in. It’s no surprise that Sithara Entertainments is among the top banners today it’s driven by visionaries like him.”
Why Shiva struck a chord
“Good writing is the foundation of a memorable character. Gowtam’s layered writing gave Shiva the emotional depth that audiences connected with. It wasn’t just about performance it was the soul of the character that made it resonate.”
Most cherished compliment:
Many industry veterans personally called to appreciate my work. That level of recognition from peers and seniors truly means a lot.”
What’s next for Satya Dev:
“I have a series called Arabian Kadali premiering on Prime Video from August 8. Then there’s Full Bottle, ready for release. I’m also teaming up with directors Venkatesh Maha and Ajay Nag for upcoming films, along with two other exciting projects.”
CAST: Vijay Deverakonda, Satya Dev, Bhagyashree Borse, Venkatesh
Director: Gowtam Tinnanuri
Producers: Suryadevara Naga Vamsi, Sai Soujanya
Music: Anirudh Ravichander
Cinematography: Jomon T. John ISC, Girish Gangadharan ISC
Editing: Navin Nooli
Production Design: Avinash Kolla
Costumes: Neeraja Kona
Production Houses: Sithara Entertainments, Fortune Four Cinemas
Presented by: Srikara Studios
PRO: Lakshmi Venugopal
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