“Playing the “Khudiram Bose” who ascended the gallows at 18 is my life’s greatest honor” : Rakesh Jagarlamudi

Khudiram Bose was one of the youngest revolutionaries of the Indian independence movement, sacrificing his life for the motherland at an age when most are just beginning their careers. His legendary life has now been brought to the silver screen in the biopic “Khudiram Bose.” In a candid conversation, the lead actor Rakesh Jagarlamudi shares his emotional journey of transforming into this national icon.

Q: What was your immediate reaction when you first heard the story of “Khudiram Bose”?
Rakesh: To be honest, my heart was racing throughout the narration. The thought of an 18-year-old boy smiling while facing the gallows for his country deeply moved me. Knowing that I was chosen to portray such a legendary figure filled me with immense pride, but it also felt like a huge responsibility.

Q: How did you land this prestigious role?
Rakesh: My father, Vijay Jagarlamudi, is the producer of this film. It was through him that I got this opportunity. While getting the role was relatively easy because of my background, I knew that justifying the character would require immense hard work and dedication.

Q: What inspired your father to produce a film on Khudiram Bose specifically?
Rakesh: My father is a staunch patriot. He is an avid reader of history and scriptures; our home is filled with books on India’s freedom struggle. His passion for our heritage and the desire to introduce this forgotten hero to the current generation led him to produce this film.

Q: How did you prepare for such an intense historical character?
Rakesh: I underwent rigorous training for about 90 days. I took acting workshops at the Mayukha Film Institute under the guidance of veteran actor Uttej Garu. His wife, Padma Garu, was a pillar of support throughout. Beyond acting, I read several historical texts and underwent physical training to adapt to the body language of that era.

Q: Did you discover anything surprising about Khudiram Bose during your research?
Rakesh: I was amazed to learn that he was one of the youngest pioneers to take the “Vande Mataram” slogan to the masses. Also, his association with Sister Nivedita (disciple of Swami Vivekananda) and how he carried the first version of the Indian flag designed by her were facts that truly inspired me.

Q: Which scene was the most challenging or emotional for you to film?
Rakesh: Definitely the climax—the execution scene. To portray a boy who laughs in the face of death for his country was emotionally draining. That feeling stayed with me for many days. Playing this role has actually made me more courageous in real life; I no longer fear small things and feel a strong urge to stand up for the truth.

Q: What was it like working with legendary technicians and senior actors?
Rakesh: It is rare for a debutant to work with legends like Padma Shri Thota Tharani (Art), Mani Sharma (Music), Rasool Ellore (Cinematography), and Marthand K. Venkatesh (Editing). Working alongside powerhouse performers like Atul Kulkarni, Vivek Oberoi, and Nasser Garu was like attending a masterclass in acting. Their discipline and dedication are exemplary.

Q: We heard you share a special bond with Superstar Rajinikanth. Could you tell us about that?
Rakesh: Rajinikanth sir is a very close friend of my father. I have been visiting him since I was a nine-month-old baby. The moments he spent playing with me and hugging me are my life’s most cherished memories. Even with his busy schedule, he watched our trailer and blessed me. His simplicity remains my greatest life lesson.

Q: How was the response at the Parliament screening and the Goa International Film Festival?
Rakesh: At the special screening for MPs in New Delhi, many were moved to tears and hugged me. At the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, the audience gave us a 5-minute standing ovation. Hearing people say, “This is a true Indian story,” was the ultimate validation for our hard work.

Q: What is your message to the youth?
Rakesh: Patriotism shouldn’t just be in our words; it should reflect in our actions and duties. Films like “Khudiram Bose” are rare gems—perhaps one in a hundred. It is our duty to honor the history and sacrifices of our ancestors.

Q: Where can the audience watch the movie?
Rakesh: The film is now streaming on the Government of India’s official OTT platform, ‘Waves’. You can download the ‘Waves’ app from the Play Store and watch it for free in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, and Bengali. There is no subscription fee. I urge everyone to watch it and support our history.

Closing Note: Having proved that greatness isn’t defined by age, Rakesh Jagarlamudi now dreams of portraying Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the future. As “Khudiram Bose” gains momentum on OTT, this young actor is certainly a talent to watch out for.

Vande Mataram! Jai Hind!