On day one of Lakme Fashion Week, we had the pleasure of catching up with actor Chaitanya Akkineni at the Magnum lounge. Despite just landing in Mumbai after a long flight, the 37-year-old actor displayed no signs of fatigue. His boyish charm and warm smile instantly puts anyone at ease when interacting with him. Here's a snippet of our fun tête-à-tête with him.

MW: Top three things on your 2024 to-do list:

Chaitanya: 

1. Complete the film currently doing.

2. Eagerly anticipate the second season of "Dhootha".

3. Plan and enjoy a well-deserved holiday.

MW: One social media trend you want the world to get rid of in 2024:

Chaitanya: The trend of preemptively critiquing films before their release through unrelated content.

MW: When do we see you in a Hindi movie next?

Chaitanya: Coming soon! I'm awaiting the perfect opportunity. I thoroughly enjoy working in this space.

MW: What, according to you, are the three crucial attributes for an actor to transcend regional boundaries?

Chaitanya: : 

1. Patience

2. Determination

3. Cultural awareness

MW: Your take on the term 'Pan-India Star'?

Chaitanya: I believe this term will evolve. With the dissolution of language barriers, thanks to global content consumption facilitated by platforms like OTT, being a 'Pan-India Star' will become the norm rather than an exceptional title. I'm grateful for the opportunities that OTT has provided in this regard.

MW: If not an actor, what would you be?

Chaitanya: I would likely be involved in either the food industry or motorsports.

MW: Three things that nobody knows about you:

Chaitanya: Those are my secrets to keep! (laughs)