Rishikumar is introduced as a hero in Sanjayram directed 'Iyakkam'. Even before the release of his first film, he seems to have secured chances for more than four films.
"I come from a family that has nothing to do with cinema. I am a BBA from Madras University. Being a player in Tamilnadu cricket team, my friends only egged me to turn to cinema.
Slowly, forgetting the cricket field, I started to get a grasp of cinema.
I learnt acting in Kuthupattarai. I learned the fundamentals of dance, stunt and so on from its experts.
My first appearance before the camera was for an advertising commercial. I have done commercials for high visibility brands like Polar Fan, Co-optex, Kodak camera and so on.
The role done by Daniel Balaji in 'Kakka kakka' was offered to me first. I refused that offer as I had my eyes only for hero's role. As time passed I mellowed down to seek for chances in the industry." Rishikumar has a sweet way of narrating things.
But then how did he get the chance in 'Iyakkam'?
"Sanjayram's cinematographer Leo is my friend and I met Sanjaykumar through him. He found me fit for the role of his story. I am appearing in two different get ups and the film has come out nicely.
I have now agreed to act in the Tamil re-make of a Kannada film and a film by the new director Mannavan.
I believe in doing the hero of the story rather than in the formula hero mould. I have a great admiration for Vikram. My aim is to do a variety of roles like Vikram." A breathless Rishikumar finished talking and took a deep breath.
