Vijay Deverakonda, the "Kingdom" star, has become a youth icon in the Telugu film industry, not just for his acting prowess but also for his inspiring outlook on life, success, and overcoming challenges. His journey, marked by humble beginnings and a fierce determination to succeed, resonates deeply with many. Here are some of his powerful quotes and insights that offer a glimpse into his mindset.
On Success and Failure:
Deverakonda views success and failure as transient phases of life. He emphasizes perseverance and resilience, reminding people that "Success is not permanent. Failure is not final. Don't let the fear of failure hold you back". He perceives success more as a relief than a cause for celebration, a temporary stop on a continuous journey. "Success is more a relief for me... it's temporary for sure, and I just feel relief, like okay, this is done now, so it doesn't go into your head".
He is critical of himself in the face of failure, stressing the importance of learning from mistakes to avoid repeating them. "Anything, any failure, you have to learn from and correct it just so that you don't do it again". This approach highlights his commitment to continuous improvement and growth.
On Defining Success:
Vijay believes that true success transcends monetary wealth. Instead, he defines it by the positive impact one has on the lives of others. "Success is not about how much money you make, it's about the difference you make in people's lives". This perspective aligns with his desire to inspire and offer hope to the younger generation, drawing inspiration from figures like Shah Rukh Khan and Chiranjeevi.
On the Path to Achievement:
Deverakonda is a firm believer in hard work and perseverance. He dismisses the notion of shortcuts, stating, "There is no elevator to success, you have to take the stairs". This quote encapsulates his belief that consistent effort and dedication are essential to achieving one's goals.
On Authenticity and Self-Belief:
Vijay underscores the importance of staying true to oneself. He advises against blindly adopting traits from others and encourages individuals to shed aspects that don't align with their true selves. "Change is not about adding traits from someone else's personality. Change is about removing traits that are not truly you". He also stresses the importance of self-reliance, noting, "The more you're dependent on others, the less you're like your true self".
He urges people to step out of their comfort zones, as that is "where the magic happens". This speaks to his own career choices, where he has often taken on challenging and unconventional roles.
On Nepotism and Struggle:
Vijay has been candid about his struggles in breaking into the Telugu film industry, which he acknowledges can be nepotistic. He emphasizes that finding a platform to showcase his acting skills was the hardest thing he had to do. Despite the challenges, he never gave up, fighting for every opportunity and for his place in the industry. He believes that life has taught him to fight for everything, including money and respect. He clarified that having a film background can be a blessing, providing advantages in choosing and performing roles, while also acknowledging that his brother, Anand Deverakonda, benefits from being his sibling.
On His Approach to Work:
Recently, Deverakonda has expressed a shift in his perspective, moving from solely focusing on results to also enjoying the filmmaking process. Despite past controversies stemming from his speeches, he has adopted a calmer and more focused approach during the promotions for "Kingdom". At the pre-release event for "Kingdom," Vijay surprised the audience by beginning his speech in the Rayalaseema dialect, showcasing his dedication to his craft and his upcoming role in a period drama.
He approaches each role with the same level of effort, regardless of whether it's a serious or lighthearted character. His willingness to experiment with his looks, even shaving his head for "Kingdom," demonstrates his commitment to his characters and his comfort with transforming himself.
Vijay Deverakonda's quotes and actions reveal a grounded and determined individual who values hard work, authenticity, and making a positive impact. As he continues his journey in the film industry, he remains an inspiration to many who admire his relatability, his courage to speak his mind, and his unwavering pursuit of his dreams.