'We all were out of the industry': When Prabhas opened up about family’s financial crisis after father and uncle left films

Prabhas has become one of Indian cinema’s biggest stars, with blockbuster films such as ‘Rebel’, ‘Baahubali’, ‘Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire’ and ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ earning him a massive following. However, the actor’s journey began with uncertainty rather than an immediate desire to enter the film industry. In an earlier interview, he spoke about his childhood shyness and the financial difficulties his family experienced after his father and uncle stepped away from cinema.As Prabhas celebrates his birthday, ETimes takes a look at his past comments about his experiences that influenced his career choice.

Prabhas recalls his childhood shyness

During a 2022 interview with Man’s World India, Prabhas opened up about his reserved nature as a child. His father worked as a producer, while his uncle was an actor. Watching them work in the film industry made him wonder how they performed in front of large groups of people.Recalling his early attitude towards acting, Prabhas said, “I was born shy, and my friends were in shock when I told them that I was taking up cinema. As a kid, I saw my dad as a producer and uncle as an actor and wondered how they managed to do all of these in front of so many. In fact, they once asked me if I would like to be a child actor, and I said no with a straight face.”

Family’s financial crisis became a turning point

Prabhas also discussed the financial challenges his family faced when his father and uncle were no longer active in the film industry. The experience became an important part of his personal journey and influenced his decision to pursue acting.Speaking about that period, the actor said, “My father and uncle stopped 30 years back. We all were out of the industry and faced a financial crisis. In 1970, I realized that I want to be an actor. I joined acting classes and went to Dr. Satyanand and that really helped me.”

How acting classes helped Prabhas

Formal training played a role in helping Prabhas overcome some of his inhibitions. The actor recalled exercises that required students to imitate animals, including cats and dogs. Such activities encouraged him to express himself more freely and become less conscious of performing in front of others. Although Prabhas went on to establish himself as a leading star, he acknowledged that his naturally reserved personality did not disappear overnight.

From introverted child to Pan-Indian star

Prabhas eventually became widely recognized for his performances in Telugu cinema before reaching audiences across India. The ‘Baahubali’ films, directed by S. S. Rajamouli, proved to be a major turning point in his career.He subsequently appeared in projects such as ‘Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire’ and ‘Kalki 2898 AD’. Prabhas has several projects lined up, including ‘Spirit’, ‘Fauzi’ and ‘Kalki 2’.