Chennai, Oct 8

Singer-turned-actor Sreeram Chandra, who is making his cinematic debut with Telugu romantic-drama "Prema Geema Jantanai" (PGJ), has lost 15 kg for his role. He says it was challenging, but his passion for acting inspired him.

Sreeram was the winner of season five of singing reality show "Indian Idol".

"Shedding weight for the film was extremely challenging because I have never lost so much weight in my life. I somehow managed to lose 15 kg for the film for the simple reason that I was very passionate about becoming an actor," Sreeram told IANS.

He said acting was always on his mind.

"I enjoy singing, but I always aspired to be an actor. I still remember how many scripts I turned down before finally saying yes to PGJ. I'm happy being part of this film. Besides undergoing acting workshop, I also enrolled for kickboxing classes," he added.

The film also features Priyanka Chopra's cousin Barbie Handa. It is directed by debutant Subbu R.V.

Produced by M Bhasker and D.B Bhasker, the film is slated to release soon.

By:IANS