yes

Sonal Chauhan

One might think that this girl is yet another import from Bollywood and she might come and go with the ebb and flow of trends in Telugu film industry. Miss World (Tourism) and former Miss India Sonal Chauhaan has all the guts to admit that she was just a beginner in Tollywood, but hopeful of a longstanding career here. “I am thrilled at Telugu film industry, which has its hoary past, recently celebrating its diamond jubilee. I know I am not working in an industry that has no history. It’s my privilege and honor to be part of Andhra Pradesh and to be entertaining its people.” Currently, this tall girl, with features resembling of a Greek sculpture, is doing the heroine for Rahul (call him Tyson of Happy Days) for VN Aditya’s latest film Rainbow. She was seen shuttling from makeup room to the shot location without putting on a single sign of tedium. Idlebrain met her for an exclusive interview. She faced the interview with all curiosity, because to put it in her own words, “I can neither be flexible nor rigid. Just, let me speak as I feel.”


How you began your career in film industry?
Before cutting through the entertainment world, I had ample experience as a model. Prior to that, I participated in a lot much pageantry all over the world. As you are aware, I got through the much-happening Miss World (Tourism) show. That brought me a great beginning wherever I went. Crowds, young or old, cheered me with love and affection. To say there will not be a full-stop in my career, the title of Miss India favored me. This brought me oceanic recognition. My debut movie Jannat was the result. I played Zoya, a passionate character, showing a landscape of human emotions, feminine grace and the much-sought-after glamour share. These were words of appreciation from my well-wishers, when they reacted to my acting in Jannat. The same feedback I recall for you.

How did you get this opportunity in Telugu?
For a hardcore believer in hard work, I have no time for dreaming. As and when I finished Jannat and was enjoying its success, I got a call from Hyderabad. I was amazed with the celluloid vision of my director VN Aditya. His track record shows he is a hardcore lover of industry like me. I loved the director’s perception, his script and narration. He was thrilled with my performance in Jannat. Naturally, we believed in each other’s capabilities – Aditya as the captain, and me as a player.

Tell us about your character in Rainbow?
My character is very very very important in the film. Say, it is the central character. I play a ravishing beauty, who comes to Tollywood to become a heroine. Why did she come to the film world, at all? Did she achieve her goal? What she has lost and what she has gained? Above all, it is a moving love story. You might even retort that you had heard similar stories. But, I assure, it is altogether a new experience for all the artistes.

What kind of your support you get from your parents? What are they?
Generally, I don’t like to speak about my parents. Of course, they support me. My father is just working; and my mom, doing business. (Sonal was reluctant and felt uneasy to the question.)

Sridevi

Sridevi. The very mention of that magical and romantic name makes your eyelids droop and you go nostalgic about your experiences of watching an all-time screen wonder. Leave that for now. Come back and consider the dreams of her ardent fan. Manjula-Vijaykumar’s darling daughter Sridevi. Shedding her childhood molt, she made her debut as heroine in Prabhas debut film – Eeshwar (2002). After that she acted in six films in six years. There is a general feel that she couldn’t get that so-called commercial break. But, the girl, fuming but appearing cool, declares: “I am never for money. I am not here to become a star heroine. I am content with what I am. I will get my time.” With hope gushing out from her dark eyes, her lips quiver – clearly suggesting her passion for a vengeful comeback. “In my view, there is nothing like big star or small artiste. An artiste is an artiste. If I do star with debutants, what’s wrong in that?” The actress speaks about her marriage, expose factor, and above all her perception of acting. Currently, she plays the heroine (as Muslim girl) in a violent love story – Manjeera. An Idlebrain’s exclusive interview:


Tell us how you made your way up to film industry?
You know that I am the daughter of Manjula and Vijaykumar. Hailing from a very popular artistes’ family, it’s natural that I hold interest in the filed of Cinema. I was known to many as a child artiste. With the blessings of my parents and film industry elders, I made my debut as heroine in Eeshwar with Prabhas. That film brought me much recognition, but I knew and agree that I couldn’t move ahead to the expected stretches. I am always busy with my career in Tamil and Kannada also. But, I shall be ever grateful to Tollywood.

So many heroines came and bagged stardom. Don’t you think you missed the train of success?
I don’t have any regrets. Why should I feel that way? See, I am basically an artiste. I have got my own commitments and interests. I don’t like comparison. I go my own way. My perception of success is altogether different from the narrow thinking.

Why there are many breakups in your career?
So far I have done 12 films in Telugu, Kannada and Tamil. It shows I am engaged to films regularly. Then, from where does the gap come?

What you consider important in your career?
Certainly, it’s not stardom, as you people think. I love to do memorable characters. That should elevate the prowess of an actress. Merely romancing with the hero doesn’t make an actress a crazy heroine. That kind of name is just temporary. You can’t deny this. You go and watch all my films. All of them will show me in good roles, worthy roles that could sure be remembered for their performance. So, I give a lot of importance to the characterization given to me.

The influence of your mom (Manjula) on your career?
Yes. She inspires me a lot. She is a big source of strength to me. So also my dad. They are my best critics.

What kind of suggestions they give you?
They give me a lot of suggestions. But, every time, they do it after watching my films. Yes. You might feel it strange. Of course, me too. When I go to shoot, they don’t say anything. They don’t want to mess up things. They love my individuality. But, their constructive criticism of my performance on the screen helps me better myself each time. This way, I care more to become a perfect artiste rather than ending up as a commercial heroine with no longevity.

See, during these six years, you have not acted with any big hero. Why didn’t you get the opportunity?
I don’t believe in categorizing artistes as big and small. Every artiste has his/her importance. If everybody wants to become big, you can’t make a movie at all. Terms like big and small are a big fallacy. Come on. You tell me. Is there anything wrong in not working with big heroes? Or do I become something little if I act with debutants? My perception of acting is very broad. I can never allow my mind to get into channels of narrow thinking.

When are you going to marry?
It might take a couple of years.

Will it be arranged or love marriage?
It could be a mix of both.

What is your opinion about love?
It is a beautiful feeling. It is common for all. But, the expression of it might differ. Without this human element, a life is not complete.

Do you support or oppose the so-called “Exposing” in films?
First of all you understand that there is a lot of confusion in the film industry about Glamour and Expose. Let me tell you frankly. The audience comes to see something on the screen which they don’t regularly find in their real life. That is glamour. They want something more. That is exposing. There is nothing wrong in exposing, which is a basic requirement for films.

So, you are supporting exposing in films?
I neither support nor oppose. Until and unless it crosses the limits, everything would be nice. Let us call it glamour. Beyond that… it amounts to vulgarity. But, don’t get confused. Glamour, exposing and vulgarity are different from one another.

You seem to care much for performance. Do you get any awards so far?
Performance and getting awards are not to be linked with each other. A good performer does her character out of passion and merely for awards. Anyways, I got some private awards for my Tamil films – Devathai Konden and Priyamana Thol. Wherever I go, people love to speak to me. When they try to compare me with my mom, I feel proud of it. It reminds me of our responsibility to become a good actress.

What are the strategies you maintain to withstand the competition?
See I am not a competitor to anybody. I am my own competitor. I already said. My primarily interest is to do good roles. Roles that should be memorable. Why should I compete with somebody? Acting is an art and not a race.

Okay. What you think are your major strengths as an actress?
My parents are my biggest strength. I don’t entertain any jealousy against anybody. I do my own business and don’t care for others. At the same time, I am adaptable to good things.

As a heroine of 12 films (six in Telugu), are you comfortable with your remuneration?
I don’t really bother about remuneration. It is not at all the criterion. I have great parents. I am under pressure to earn money. I consider acting more as my passion rather than profession.

What is your dream role?
I don’t have anything in particular. Just I will be satisfied with all good roles. But they should be performance-oriented.

What are your hobbies?
Playing shuttle and badminton.

Lakshmi Lahari

For a male or female, life in the glitter world is like riding a tiger. You must continue whether you like it or not, says Lahari alias Lakshmi Lahari alias Lakshmi Sharma (in Malayalam) came to Hyderabad from Vijayawada to pursue her dream to become a heroine. But, she had to adjust making debut as “side-actress” in EVV Satyanrayana starrer “Ammo Okato Thareeku” (2000), for which she got a remuneration of Rs. 20,000. In the film College, again she played the second fiddle. Two years later, she realized her dream in a small film and that went into the oblivion soon. Later, she took the avatar as “Chiranjeevi gari Mena Kodalu” in Indra. Of course, that proved lethal dose to her advancement as heroine in Tollywood. She tried and tried like the proverbial spider but couldn’t build her web. Caught in the mire of anger, disappointment and vexation, she flew to Kerala, where she did 10 films as heroine, with 3 films ready for release and two more set for launch in the coming weeks. Her love for mother industry yet put her at the receiving end. She met almost all the directors and producers. Everybody was ready to offer her the roles of – heroine’s friend or sister, hero’s sister, or a character role. “I learnt Bharatanatyam for eight years and loved the big screen more than my life. But, misfortune continuously dogged me. It shouldn’t happen to our Telugu girls,” Lahari regrets with a curl on her lip (out of irritation towards Tollywood). In an exclusive interview to Idlebrain, this celebrity of God’s Own Country but shunned heroine of Andhra Pradesh, she reveals how Malayalam guys propose to her, about the dangers of Zero-size mania, and the necessity to have performance-oriented films for heroines instead of mere glam dolls. But, we don’t know why, she preferred not to make any mention to her performance as X class girl in Soundarya’s film Ammoru (1995)

When did you make your entry into Tollywood? And your background earlier?
I come from Vijayawada. My dad worked in the Postal department and mom, with APSRTC. Both were higher officials. They took voluntary retirement and we settled in Hyderabad six years ago. In Hyderabad, it was my avowed dream to become a heroine. I tried and tried and all my efforts were exhausted. The Telugu film industry was ruthless to me. I don’t have much to tell you from the glamour point of view. Just I started my career in Tollywood with EVV Satyanarayana’s Ammo Okato Thareeku (2000), not as heroine, but in some good role. I did films like College. Though I did lead female roles in the films Manamiddaram and Vacchina Vaadu Sureedu, they didn’t click. But, I had some solace. In Chiranjeevi gari film Indra (2002), I did the role as his Mena Kodalu (niece). Even today, most of the people, wherever I go, call me as Chiru’s niece. I am happy. Other than that, I don’t have any moment of luck or happiness. Fate was unfeeling to me. Of course, nothing deters me from realizing my dream. I am now happy with Kerala film industry. At least, I am one among the recognized heroines. Now, I am here in Tollywood to play a negative role. It’s just an experiment. The film is Oka Ammai Oka Abbai, launched a few days back. I believe that such characters are very much liked by the audience. But, storywriters and directors are not coming out with such roles.

What about your stint on the small screen?
What I couldn’t get on the big screen, I got it on the small screen. People still remember me as Durga as I did the title role in the TV serial Durga. Significantly, I come from Vijayawada, the abode of Goddess Kanaka Durga. ETV Suman garu liked my performance very much. At a time I was struggling to fight out the stalemate in my career bogged down disgrace due to offer of insignificant roles, the TV field came as a big rescue to me. It did resurrect my hopes as an artiste. My second life began with TV industry.

So, you left Tollywood due to lack of heroine roles?
Of course. Basically, I stepped into Tollywood to become a heroine. But, I was so flexible as an artiste that I got ready to do significant roles. What I mean by significant roles is that roles that can really help an artiste perform. But, most of the roles offered to me were the ones which actually contributed to my getting sidelined.

How did you enter Mollywood?
It so happened that I attended a screen test by a professional filmmaker in Chennai in 2005. Those photos and video footage impressed star Malayalam director Blessy. That way, I got the opportunity to set my foot in God’s Own Country. So far, ten of my films got released. Three are ready for release. Two are on the sets. Two are going to be launched soon. In 2006, I did the film Palungu, with Mammooty sir. I also did the film Ayuvu Rekha with Suresh Gopi. Kerala audience found a Srividya in me.

What is the main reason that you failed to achieve your heroine dream?
It’s in Telugu only. I can’t judge. But, I know this. Telugu audience like glam dolls as heroines. That time I was somehow reluctant to expose and I hardly exposed. You know the invasion of Tollywood by Mumbai models and Bollywood actresses. This influx is equally shared by Kerala Kutties. I frankly admit that these exports are doing absolute justice to their job. They are very glamorous compared to our Telugu girls. They are tall, sexy, wield sharp features. Above all, they are easily adaptable to ZERO Size.

Do you think you can make a comeback as heroine with Zero size?
Absolutely not possible. See my figure. Somehow, I don’t think I can succeed in the feat. Moreover, our (Tollywood) films are pucca commercial. For that purpose, I can’t go for Zero size. I don’t have permanency here. So, why should I risk. Moreover, maintaining Zero size has several ill effects on health. I think you know this. Doctors are warning against this development every day.

How different is Kerala film industry from Telugu?
It’s God’s Own Country. People are also very congenial and admirable. Basically, movies there are not commercial. They are more about family relationships. They hold concrete reality to real life. No need for inches of makeup. No need for artificial costumes. Everything, say more than 90% its natural there. The budget is not a big constraint there. Majority of the films are low-budget ventures. Almost all the films have their audience. In fact, the Malayalam Cinema has its universal impact, but rather silently.

Mamata Mohandas

Even two years after making her debut into Tollywood (first as singer, followed by as an actress), the solo-heroine dream continues to evade this Kerala Kutty. Leave alone the drawbacks. Anyways, Mamata Mohandas became an instant celebrity with the click of the title song in NTR-Krishnavamsi starrer Raakhi in 2006. Then, she secured her image with Aakalesthe Annam Pedatha song in Megastar Shankar Dada Zindabad. Giving a new twist to her songster career, Mamata made her debut as an actress in Yamadonga, a much-hyped film of SS Rajamouli with NTR. Later, she donned a negative role (not considered by many as heroine) in the film Krishnarjuna. Now, Mamata gets ready once again as the second fiddle in Victory Venkatesh ready for release film "Chintakayala Ravi". For this Kerala NRI from Bahrain, "Tollywood is a land of creativity and opportunities for the talented artistes. There are heroines who had even played the third fiddle before becoming heartthrobs. I am not here for an image, but for a serious career to prove my talents," she says in an exclusive interview to Idlebrain.com. Interestingly, the girl wields a deeper understanding of the Indian film industry in general


How about your journey in Tollywood?
You all know that I came to Tollywood as a singer. Before that I did Malayalam films. Suddenly, one day, Rajamouli introduced me as an actress here. He did give me immense moral support, which otherwise it would have been very difficult for me to cope up in my intial days. After that, I did a negative role in Krishnarjuna. My two films – Homam and Victory – were released recently and they brought me a good name as a good performer.

Did you face any difficulty in Tollywood so far?
Of course. Very few people know this. I was replaced in a couple of films. Aata and Don. MS Raju went in for Ileana, and Anushka was fixed for Don. As of Don, I came to know that Lawrance (director of that film) strongly opposed to entertain me as heroine in Don. I don't know the exact reasons. At first, I felt bad. Later, I did understand their personal reservations.

Tell us about Chintakalaya Ravi?
It's a lucky project for me. Working with big hero Venkatesh, it's like a dream to me. He is a thorough gentleman. In each and every aspect, he is very dignified. Seeing him and working with him as Chintakayala Ravi is hilarious. Venkatesh himself is a bundle of creativity and high energy. My director Yogesh said the film is a complete family entertainer with superb comedy.

What's your role in this film?
I did the role of Lavanya. Village lass. I am to marry Venkatesh, when an alliance comes to my house. As the bride-choice, I cherish dreams to go to the US and enjoy life there, knowing that my would-be is a software engineer there. Mine is totally a village role. I think village roles suit me better than city getups.

How lengthier is your role?
Good footage. I have two songs with Venky in the backdrop of US. But, the entire talkie is done here. I don't go to US. Just dream songs, but situational.

Who dreams? You or Venky?
Both. One time I dream, the next, Venky.

Tell us about your director Yogesh?
I think you know that he is coming after a gap of four or five years. You can see him making his comeback with vengeance. In each and every frame, his careful handling is seen.

What is your confidence level about Chintakayala Ravi?
I can directly assure the audience that the film is going to be a super hit. I say this because; I saw most scenes in this. The story of Kona Venkat simply rocks.

Your chemistry with Anushka?
Good. Firstly, everybody on the sets used to tease both of us. Somebody will come and say that Anushka will cut my scenes. They go to Anushka and say I would cut her scenes. I frankly admit, there had prevailed some uneasy moments initially. But, in the days that followed, we came have perfect chemistry between us. Yogesh told both of us to be friendly. Now, really we are very good friends.

Did you ever feel jealous of her?
No. Certainly No. I am not that kind of person. In fact, Anushka is a good and beautiful performer.

Why didn't you sing a song in C. Ravi?
By the time, I came into the project, already five songs were recorded and only one song – that too a party song – was remaining. I would always love to work with Vishal-Sekhar, but I was not lucky in this aspect. Hope, I can do next time.

What kind of feedback you get for your roles?
Definitely, I respect feedback from people. Good or bad, I take them with a positive feel. In Yamadonga, the audience really liked my role and they talked about it. I know my role in Krishnarjuna came with negative shades. Just because the movie didn't do well, there is no much scope for generation of the exact feedback. I also know, some audience didn't even consider it as that of a heroine. It's all okay. Let me face future with more confidence and understanding.

Even one year after your debut (Yamadonga), you are still doing the second fiddle. Do you feel for it?
Why? There are heroines who had even played the third or even fourth fiddle before hitting the bull's eye. I consider myself as an actress, not as heroine. That too, I am just one-year-old. Now, I am doing with a big hero like Venkatesh. I take this as positive development in my career. Categorizing a heroine into first, second and third or fourth levels are just narrow thinking and don't really sound professional. Of course, I know people cherish this doubt.

Recently, there's slight furor over a song in Homam. Your experience with that number?
Yes. I felt very embarrassed with that song. First day and second day, I just worked without taking any personal opinion on that, because I was working with a senior hero like Jagapati Babu. The third day, I telephoned to JD Chakravarty (director) and told him I felt very irritating to act in that erotic song. He simply said: Mamta, just you finish it and see. If it really hurts you, then we will do something. The next day, the media wrote that I had a big fight with him. Really, nothing like that happened. After that, I saw the song during the audio release function. I didn't find anything bad. That song just reflected a mood in that film. Ok.

Once again, you are doing the second-line heroine in King. Why?
Why can't I do that? See, Nag is really a king on Telugu celluloid. About Seenu Vytla, I don't think I need to tell you about him. This is a big combination. I feel King is also a golden opportunity for me to prove myself.

Is there any moment when you rejected any offers?
Yes. I rejected two or three films, because I didn't like the script. For me, I first give importance to the script. My role should have some prominence. Even it is of one minute, no problem, but it should elevate my career and I should have something to perform.

How do you maintain your glamour?
It's very important to an actress. But, all these days, I didn't really take this seriously. Just from the recent days that I am concentrating on glamour. Costumes play a major role. In the film Krishnarjuna, I was given the costumes that didn't fit my measurements. Sometimes, the dress will be either short or tall. I sensed the oddity, but I finished the shots later.

Why don't you have a personal designer?
Yes. After sour incidents like this, I recently got one personal designer of mine. I hope I am wearing nice dresses these days. Right?

What about Kerala girls dominating the film industry?
Kerala is a small state with limited resources. Poverty is one thing that makes hard working people leave the state and go in search of greener pastures outside. See, Kerala is God's Own Country. God has really given us the best of the female features with black large eyes, sharp nose and above all alluring complexion. Generally, Kerala girls are beautiful and they simply arrest the passersby. I remember one saying… you don't like the fragrance in your garden and search in somebody else's garden. It is also like this. Even the Telugu girls are very beautiful. I genuinely wish that Telugu girls also should come into their language industry.

The difference between remuneration? (Between Kerala and Andhra)
See, the maximum the heroines get in Malayalam film industry will be between 3-9 lakhs. But, here, the figure is nearly ten times more than that. Naturally, they like the best.

You are doing films in Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam. Which you prefer most?
We will absolutely find Tollywood or Kollywood a better option. Malayalam film industry is not rich. There is no better marketing. Originality is fast disappearing. The onslaught of Tamil films (direct) and Telugu films (dubbed) are affecting the local fortunes there. A Kerala girl honestly feels that if she were to continue her career in Malayalam, she would be risking her future. She will one day find that she is a withered flower. You see, a Kerala girl is also noble at heart. They are the best in nursing field.

How do you respond to rumors?
Nothing much. Rumors are part of the glitter world. The worst rumor in my life is that when people linked me with a hero in Malayalam. That hero is of my dad's age. I felt very bad and stopped films for sometime. When I came here, there was gossiping between me and Devi Sri Prasad. Seeing the rumors, we used to cut jokes. Gradually, I learnt that gossips are something that has become an integral part of the film industry. But, there are some artistes who try to get advantage of such rumors, good or bad. They consider this as one way of publicity to bolster their career.

Shweta Basu Prasad

With her naughty mannerisms … Eekada? (For Ekkkada) & ayyabaaboi nuvvala anaku naaku edholaa vundhi in Kotha Bangaru Lokam, the 17-year-old Shwetha Basu Prasad has become the naya heartthrob of our Inter and (degree) guys all over Andhra Pradesh. She is strikingly talkative, giving a fine expression of herself, her career and options in private life. Born to a UP father and Bengali mother, she truly reflects the cosmopolitan outlook of the new generation teens. She has the guts to say that she blind-dated a Punjabi guy. With KBL making a clean sweep of the theatres, the girl stands at the vantage point… say a hotcake for the filmmakers in Tollywood. In an exclusive interview to Idlebrain.com, she reveals that: “I am not Swapna of KBL in real life. But, quite opposite to the character.”


Tell us about your background?
I am Shweta Basu Prasad. It’s my newly altered name with my mom’s surname included for this film (KBL). Prasad represents the lineage from my dad’s side. I was born in the Steel City of Jamshedpur (Jharkhand) and I came to Mumbai when I was three or four. My mom’s ancestry stretches to West Bengal. I can read and write Bengali. My dad is from Uttar Pradesh and later moved to Delhi. My dad has strong background in the Theatre. At the age of 11, I became a child artiste, making my debut with Makdi. It was written and directed by music composer Vishal Bharadwaj, starring Shabana Azmi as witch. I played the dual role in that film. It got me National Award (The Best Child Artiste) and I received it from the then President APJ Abdul Kalam. That time I was 12. At the age of 14, I did Iqbal, a Nagesh Kukunoor’s film produced by Subash Ghai film, entirely shot in and around Tenali. I did another film in Bengali with Mithun Chakravarthy. And this (KBL) is my first film as heroine. I will be turning 18 in January next year.

You worked with some of the famed directors and banner. What did you learn from your stint with them all these years?
In fact, I never took any training for acting in films. Even during my childhood and schooldays too, I was not used to it. But, I felt the passion for films naturally. Working for Makdi, I didn’t pay much attention to learning. That time it was completely professional. To be relevant, I can say that I got the sense of preparation for the scenes from Shabana Azmi (in Makdi). It also helped me to tune my body language and down-to-earth adaptation to the situations. From Mithun Chakrabarty, I got the point as to how to get into the characterization. In KBL, I found working with senior artistes like Jayasudha, Brahmanandam and all. This made me catch the plus points and learn from the minus points.

What you think are your plus points?
I have got great memory power. It’s my strength. See, working for a film like KBL with Telugu being completely alien to me, I had to work on a new horizon. I had to be quick in dialogue delivery. Ten minutes before the shoot of the scene, I was told the dialogues, which I had to enact live. Secondly, I have passion for work. I enjoy what I do. I am always used to work with agility.

What about your studies?
Studies is ever important to me, that too coming from a family wielding highly educated professionals in high posts… doctors, engineers, CAs. My parents don’t love me if I have no mind for education. Now, I am doing my 11th at a CBSE high school in Mumbai. I will continue and set to do B.Com. I concentrate on the present and plan for the future.

How do you balance your acting career and studies?
I don’t necessarily study and do a job. To be an actress, I don’t need to have a degree as qualification. But, education is important to me. To be literate is a must. I know what I am doing.

Tell us about your experience working for KBL?
I am new, but got a very banner (production house). The script was real, fresh, though we have seen many love stories. I could work with senior artistes. Music and cinematography were fantastic. I had lots of experiences each day working with the KBL team. Actually, I am an outsider. The culture here is different to me. Each day, it was like a struggle to me with the language and culture… and I enjoyed all these.

You got a National Award. Further, what do you want to achieve?
Yes. Already I got the National Award. More than that, I got an international award as the Best Supporting Actress Award at the Karachi Film Festival. I could do the dual role in Makdi. Though a staunch Hindu, I donned the role of a Muslim girl in Iqbal. I played role of mother less child in Bengali film. Now, in KBL, I did the role as Swapna, which is completely the opposite of mine in real life. Getting recognized as a child artiste and with a rising career, I say… I am greedy right now. I am greedy to do more difficult and challenging roles. I can do them only when I am at them.

What about your fan mail?
I don’t have a fan mail. Living in Mumbai, I don’t know much about the audience here. Now, with this KBL success, I got to know that I got much craze among the youth in Andhra Pradesh. I know, the audiences are the real judges. I am delighted and happy now.

What’s your email Id?
shweta_basu_prasad@hotmail.com

How you differentiate between Swapna (as KBL heroine) and self (Swetha)?
Swapna is highly restricted in her way by narrow-minded parents. They are overprotective about the girl. But, I (in real life) have got absolute freedom and face no restrictions at all. My mom is my best friend. I share everything with her. Swapna is simple, alone and thinks differently. But, I am fun loving, friendly and mischievous. Swapna has the patience to wait for four years for her lover. But, I can’t wait for even four days (Laughs).

Who’s your favorite actor?
Aamir Khan. Thre is always value and money for the audiences for his films. Among the Hollywood actors, Johnny Depp is my favorite.

Can you list out your favorite films?
God! It’s a long list. Anyways, I tell you. Saudagar, Amar Prem, Chalti Ka Nam Gadi, DDLJ, Ghungroo, Range De Basanti, Nayak (Shankar) and…. Many more.

Your favorites in Hollywood?
Manhattan, Titanic and Memoirs of a Geisha. Memoirs of a Geisha reflects the many shades of a woman at different ages.

If you happen to be taken for a remake of a classic, which one would you prefer most?
Amar Prem (Sharmila Tagore), Dushman (Kajol) and Khoobsurat (Rekha)

What’s your hobbies?
Reading books, newspapers. I love music. I carry Ipod with me always. I am a very private person, mostly. I like to frolic in family functions only. I am not a party person.

What are your favorite books?
Pride and Prejudice of Jane Austen. Time Machine of HG Wells, Kuldip Nayyar’s non-fiction Without Fear: Life and trial of Bhagat Singh.

What about your favorite dishes?
With my Bengali ancestry, I am regularly used to fish and rice, my staple diet. Thanks to my dad’s side, I like Rajma Chawal. I like butter chicken. My mom is an expert in making Alu parottas. And next.. Pulav. I love Chinese too. I also like street food like Vada Pav, Pav Baji, Sav Puri and Pani Puri.

How come you eat all these stuff and maintain your physic?
I believe in eating and exercising. I am a big foodie. I never think of dieting. I eat a lot, but I take it at the right time. And doing exercises regularly.

What are your favorite restaurants?
Oh Calcutta, Mainland China, Pop Tates (Italian) and Aromas of China are the restaurants I prefer inMumbai..

Did you date anytime?
Since schooling, I do have a lot of friends. I am tomboyish by nature. Most of them found me always fighting with them. The guys were always scared of me and didn’t have courage to say anything of that sort directly to me. Of course, some guys would send me messages. Hmm… But, I blind-dated a Punjabi guy in March of this year. I don’t generally expect anything on my date.

What’s the best compliment for you?
During the shoot of a sequence for the film Iqbal, it was Nasiruddin Shaw, who said: “Shweta, you are doing well. I’m not surprised.” He had watched my film Makdi. Next, it was Asha Parekh Ji. At a function in Dubai, she told me: “I am the world’s biggest fan of you.” As she said so, I found the tray she held trembling. Above all, I always consider that the best compliment is always from the director, because he is the creator of a character.

Just at 17, you are so matured in expressions?
Oh! It’s a nice compliment. See, since my childhood, I have been an artiste, which might be the reason for my frolic and being talkative. My family background too counts a lot.

If not an actress, what would you have been?
My life would have been a blackout. I am madly in love with films. I am passionate about them. I could become a lawyer because. I am very good at arguing. I have respect for Indian Constitution and Judiciary.

Bindu Madhavi

Here is good news for Telugu film audience. After many years, we get to watch the splendid performance of an accha Telugu Adapilla, thanks to finer tastes of Sekhar Kammula. Let’s welcome Bindu Madhavi, our own Telugu girl who is making her debut in Tollywood with Anish Kurivilla’s Avakai Biryani. Director turned producer Sekhar Kammula has in fact handpicked her, to suit the tastes of Telugu audience. Bindu Madhavi plays the role of a saree-clad pickle seller and looks equally gorgeous in trendy apparel too. She speaks about herself, family, and passion for films in an exclusive interview to Idlebrain.com. Here are the excerpts

Tell us about your background?
I was born in Madanapalli. My father is an assistant commissioner in commercial tax department. Since he is a government employee, we had to shift to various places like Tirupati, Nellore, Guntur, Vijayawada and Hyderabad. My father is working in Hyderabad now. I did my studies from +1 onwards in Chennai. I completed my degree in bio technology now.

I have always been an average student at studies and I had an inclination towards cultural activities. I used to participate in cultural activities and win prizes in most of them. I started my modeling career with a print ad for Saravana stores sarees. Sekhar Kammula and Anish Kuruvilla saw my work in Tata Gold (Tanishq from Titan) advertisement and called me for an audition.

How did the audition go?
They gave me a 4 page intro scene of the heroine character and gave me an hour time to prepare. That scene demands various kinds of emotions. I performed in the audition and had a gut feeling that I could get selected. I got a call from them after 3 days.

You played the character of a pickle selling girl. But you look pretty sophisticated and urbane outside. How did you manage that character?
I played the character of Lakshmi – a pickle selling girl in Avakai Biryani. I might look little urbane now, but in the film you would see a village girl. As a person, I identify myself more with my character Lakshmi. I am also responsible, down to earth and independent like Lakshmi.

More over, they conducted a workshop for us for a month where we used to read out and rehearsal each and every scene. I used to perform one scene each to Sekhar Kammula and Anish Kuruvilla everyday. By the time the shooting started, I had all the dialogues by heart.

There is lot of resistance from parents for those Telugu girls who want to get into showbiz. Did you face any restrictions from parents?
I had a stiff resistance from my father when I told him that I would get into modeling and do the ramp shows. My father did not speak to me for six months. After that he understood and said that I have to return to studies if I were not successful in it. I could get nice modeling assignments in Chennai and walked in 20 ramp shows. My father encouraged me when I got an offer for Avakai Biryani because he trusts the clean image of Sekhar Kammula.

Tell us about your co-actor Kamal Kamaraju?
He is very professional. He is a perfectionist. He concentrates on all aspect when he is at sets. He is a very serious actor unlike me.

What about the director Anish Kuruvilla?
I heard that directors do shout at actors. But, Anish is a cool person. He pampers his actors a lot so that he could extract the best from us.

Any memorable incident while shooting for Avakai Biryani?

1. I am a fan of Aishwarya Rai and I heard that she really ate green chilies in order to get the real effect while doing Hum Dil Dechuke Hain Sanam. I always wanted to do such kind of feat if the scene demands. And when there is a scene in Avakai Biryani where I eat 7-8 green chilies, the director asked me to use glycerin. But it was an opportunity I was anxiously looking forward to, I ate 7-8 chilies for real and got the desired effect. But I had to suffer for the next one hour, as we could not get sugar.

2. We shot Avakai Biryani in a remote village near by Vikarabad. We operate from Vikarabad. We were traveling back to Vikarabad at 3 am after a late night shoot. Actors were sitting in a vehicle which was traveling ahead. Anish and the technical team were sitting in another car. I got a weird idea and stopped the vehicle. I got down, smeared kajal (eye make-up) all around eyes and let my hair open. When Anish’s vehicle approached, I suddenly ran into the road. The driver stopped it just an inch away. Anish got shocked and scared so much that he refused to talk to me for the next two days. He said that he would cast me as main lead if he attempts any horror film in the future.

What did you aspire to become when you were a kid?
I wanted to become airhostess when I was a kid. Then I wanted to become a pilot. After watching Coyote Ugly (2000) film, I wanted to become a bar tender. Becoming heroine is my dream and I aspired to become a model.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?
People say that my eyes are big and expressive. My big eyes help me to convey emotions in films. And I am a proud owner of lovely dimples. My weakness is that I trust people very easily.

Telugu heroines are very rare in film industry now. How do you model yourself?
My mother is a big fan of Savithri and Jayasudha. I will model myself in such a way that she would become a big fan of Savithri, Jayasudha and Bindu Madhavi. I would like to carve my own identity in Telugu film industry.

What is your dream project?
I would love to do action films like Anjelina Jolie.

Who are your favorite actors?
Pawan Kalyan, Mahesh Babu and Bhumika Chawla. I became fans of Pawan Kalyan and Bhumika Chawla after watching Kushi. I became a fan of Mahesh Babu after watching Pokiri.

Sekhar Kammula knew that I am a fan of Pawan Kalyan. He promised me a autograph from Pawan Kalyan if I do a good job in Avakai Biryani.

What is your favorite film?
Geetanjali is my all-time favorite film.

What is the best compliment you got so far?
After watching the rushes of Avakai Biryani, Sekhar Kammula said that my performance is too mature for a first-timer.

What are your hobbies?
I love playing badminton. I used to play badminton with my father since I was in 3rd class. I also do lot of swimming.

How do you handle proposals from guys?
I have two extreme natures. I am very reserved and silent with strangers and I am wacky with closed ones. Hence not many guys got that much of proximity.

How do you control your diet?
I go to gym regularly and it keeps me fit all the time. I don’t follow any diet control.

What kind of food do you like?
Since I was away from home since my +2, I am enjoying the home food cooked by mom now. When I go out, I prefer continental.

Genelia

Genelia is shooting for Krishna Vamsi’s latest film Sasirekha Parinayam in Ramoji Film City now. She is playing the title character in this film. Idlebrain.com visited RFC to get an interview with Genelia. Here are the excerpts.


Tell us about your experience in working with Krishna Vamsi?
I heard that he is arrogant and egoistic before accepting this film. While doing Sasirekha Parinayam I have realized that Krishna Vamsi is an institution. His passion for films rubs on you. I am feeling fortunate to have worked with him. My experience in Sasirekha Parinayam made me a better actress today. Krishna Vamsi is a kind of director who makes films for passion of making films, but not for end results.

Did you watch any of Krishna Vamsi’s films?
Yes. I loved watching Murari.

How different are you in this film compared to other films?
There is no make-up for me in this film. Yet I look glamorous. There is soul in this character.

What is Sasirekha Parinayam film all about?
Sasirekha Parinayam film is about Sasirekha running away from her marriage because she does not believe in dowry. She is against the concept of the boy treated a commodity and pay dowry to him. On the way, she meets Abhimanyu. Sasirekha Parinayam is a journey into a woman’s heart. Women are taken for granted in this society. Every woman will indentify with Sasirekha character. Sasirekha Parinayam is a romantic film.

Is Sasirekha Parinayam a remake of Jab We Met?
No. Sasirekha Parinayam has no resemblance to Jab We Met. It is a journey film like Jab We Met. That is where the similarity ends.

Your earlier film Ready is also about a girl who ran away from marriage? You seem to be earning the tag of ‘Run Away Bride’?
I hope I don’t run away from my real marriage (giggles). I loved the ‘Runaway Bride’ Hollywood flick. I don’t mind acting in a remake of that film.

How similar is Sasirekha character to your real self?
I always wanted to be a straight-forth girl like Sasirekha, but I end up being diplomatic because of my profession. Sasirekha acts upon her instincts. If she wants to jump into Godavari she jumps. If she does not like something, she runs away.

What makes you proud of yourself as an actress?
I am doing heroine role in three languages of Bommarillu (Telugu, Hindi and Tamil). It gives me immense satisfaction.

You seem to be delivering hits in all languages?
I delivered a super hit each in four languages – Satya (Kannada), Santosh Subramaniyam (Tamil), Ready (Telugu) and Jaane Tu (Hindi) this year. I guess I am the only heroine who delivered 4 super hits in four languages in one year.

Which language do you prefer to act in if you get equally good scripts in these four languages?
I enjoy doing films in all languages. But it is Telugu film industry that accepted me. Telugu film industry is like my school where I spent my first 6 years. I prefer Telugu films over other languages because Telugu film industry is like my home.

What is your criterion for accepting films?
Script is the first factor I look into. I don’t mind doing a 5-minute role if it’s worth it. Secondly I should have comfort level with director/producer I work with. Remuneration is never the criterion for me.

You had dubbing artists working for you in regional languages. How comfortable you are at dubbing in Hindi?
I feel that dubbing myself is an integral part of acting. Though I don’t dub in regional films, I make sure I learn each and every line and tell that during the shooting. That is the reason why there is perfect lip sync in my regional films. There were instances when I used to by-heart 1 and half hour page of Telugu dialogues and utter those at one go.

Tell us about your diet?
I am basically an athlete. I was a state level runner and I played for national football team. Hence, I am fit. I don’t stay away from any kind of food. If I like something, I binge onto it. I love biryani, even if it’s oily.

What are the other projects you are doing now?
I am doing Bommarillu in Hindi. It is called ‘It’s my life’. I am also doing ‘Life Partner’ in the direction of Abbas Mastan.

Sonia

Sonia who gave a stupendous performance as Shravs in her debut blockbuster Happy Days has become the dream date of Telugu youth overnight. Her second film Vinayakudu is all set to hit the marquee on November 21 in the USA and on 22 in India. Here is an exclusive interview with Sonia -


Why did you accept Vinayakudu film?
I accepted the Vinayakudu film in March 2008. I liked the script. It is an urbane story with interesting style of characterizations. It has an off-beat storyline and gripping narrative style.
For More Photos

How do you compare your Shrav's character in Happy Days with the one in Vinayakudu?
In the Happy Days film, I did not have many dialogues. I had to convey through expressions. But my role in Vinayakudu is very different. I come across like a very talkative girl in this film. I did a college girl character in Happy Days and I am playing the role of a working woman in Vinayakudu. I am daddy's girl in Vinayakudu who is ambitious and pursue whatever she wants.

How different is Sai Kiran Adivi compared to Sekhar Kammula?
Sai Kiran inherited patience from Sekhar Kammula. Both of them have loads of patience and explain us what they want. I have lots of respect and awe for Sekhar Kammula and my relationship with Sekhar Kammula is more like that of student and teacher. Sai Kiran is like a friend to me and I have more freedom on the sets with him.

What do you think is the strength of Vinayakudu?
The story is the main strength of the film. There will not be any exaggerated drama. It will be a smooth and feel good film. I can't say anymore about it as I have not watched the film yet.

You had a bespectacled nerd and a fat guy proposing to you in Happy Days and Vinayakudu respectively. What is your criterion in your real life if you get a similar proposal?
I might sound like a cliche. But it's true. Physical features are secondary for me. Looks are momentary and fade away after a while. What stays for the whole life is the character. I am looking for a guy with good character as my life partner than a guy with good looks.

You are doing Tamil version of Happy Days. Are there any changes?
I am doing the same character of Shravs in Tamil too. I am the only actor from Telugu cast who is working in the Tamil aswell. I don't see any major differences between Telugu and Tamil version.

How do you react to the fan following?
I had a dream launch with Happy Days film. The kind of response I got was flattering. After doing Happy Days, I realized that I got some in-born talent in me. I am very happy when somebody recognize and praise me.

A couple of my friends talked to you when you were partying in pubs. Don't you feel that people who approach you like that are invading your privacy?
I am OK with people coming and talking to me. Since I acted in film, it is only natural for people to want to talk to me. I remember those days when I wanted to talk to Chiranjeevi when Aapadbhandavudu film was shot in our St. Ann's college. When somebody says hi to me I treat them well and reply them. But I don't like it when people call me Shravs from behind and expect me turn around and acknowledge them.

In the last interview, you expressed you wish to start a flower shop?
Yes. The plan is still on. I am looking at taking a local franchise of a big national level florist chain.

What is your materialistic dream?
I love to have an independent or a penthouse. I want to have lot of space in my house so that I can have plants and pets. I am a pet lover. I have puppy now and I also want to have a cat and rabbits. I don't want to live in a match-box kind of place.

What about a car. You still wanna depend on cabs?
I bought a decent second-hand car recently and I started driving. I am happy with it. My dream car is BMW convertible. But Hyderabad roads are not ready yet for my dream car, I guess.

You roles in Happy Days and Vinayakudu are similar. Don't you think you will get branded?
I don't know my potential as an actress yet. I don't like to be called as either commercial heroine or an off-beat heroine. I would love to do the role in films like Raincoat. I wanna do roles that inspire emotions in people. I want to do roles with sheer depth.

Who is your role model?
I like the way Genelia is handling her career. I would like to model my career like Tabu by balancing between art films and commercial films. I love Amitabh Bachchan the way he moulded his career spanning so many decades.

Curly hair and spaghetti style is your brand now. Do you straighten your hair if the role demands it?
Yes. My hair is curly by nature. There are some moments where I got it straightened for a brief time in the past. I don't mind straightened hair.

Are you tensed about the release of Vinayakudu?
I was tensed up yesterday night. Not any more. Just waiting to watch the premiere tonight.

Anushka

Anushka - one of the most successful and happening actresses of Telugu cinema – has done the title of role a female oriented film ‘Arundhathi’. This film is a thriller with extravagant production values. Arundhati is all set to release on 14 January 2009. Idlebrain.com met this ever-smiling and amicable actress Anushka for an exclusive interview. Here are the excerpts

Tell us about Arundhati?
Arundhati is a vengeance drama. The story starts in 1920’s in Gadwal Samsthanam. Jejamma faces a problem and she is killed. That problem is carried on to later generations. It is faced by Arundhati who is born in the current generation of the same lineage. This film is about how Arundhati fights back and solves the problem. I am doing both the roles of Jejamma and Arundhati.

Tell us about the difference between these two characters and how you portrayed them?
If you look at village scenario, it is always woman in any house who stands up during the crisis and solves it. Women exhibit lots of strength during crisis time. Jejamma is such kind of lady who takes over the mantle of responsibility from her father. The entire Jejamma episode is narrated in flashbacks. And it consists of 30% of the movie.

Aundhati is a today’s girl who is modern and tender. But she also possesses the same strength to stand up and fight in the times of crisis.

Regarding the portrayal, I just followed the instructions of Kodi Rama Krishna. He is an expert at it. Jejamma character has heavy costumes and royal look. Hence the sets and costumes and body language portray the splendor of Jejamma character from a long shot. The make-up and jewelry made a lot of difference to Jejamma character from a close-up.

Who designed costumes for you?
Deepa Joshi designed my costumes for Lakshyam and Don films. She designed costumes for this film as well. She did a lot of home work and brought Jejamma character the majestic look with appropriate costumes. She made sure that there is strong royal touch to the Jejamma character and subtleness to Arundhati character with her designs.

Tell us about the drum dance in the film?
This song took us around 45 days to shoot. This song integrates the scenes of Pasupathi (played by Sonu Sood) entering Gadwal to the story. There are instrumentation bits in the song. There are some dialogues too. It is like a vital scene narrated in aesthetic style using music and dance. It took so much time because there are lots of graphics involved for this song and the choreographer Shiva Shankar had to coordinate with the graphics team to get the exact precision. There are many set changes in the song. The director went into detailing to make sure that the song is effective.

Is there so much coordination between the shoot and graphics?
Yes. Rahul and others from FireFly were involved in this project since the time of conceptualization. Hence there is seamless integration of graphics in the script work. They know the detailing and helped us by being present at shooting spot for the shots that required graphics work.

Tell us about the music?
Koti scored music. He has done an amazing job. There will be three songs in this film. And there is character to each song in this film. Music will be launched on 10 January.

Tell us about Sonu Sood?
Sonu Sood has done a brilliant job. Though his screen presence is less, his voice will act as a character that is present throughout the film. The other character that acts as a bridge between the past and the present is one played by veteran actress Manorama.

Tell us about the producer Shyam Prasad Reddy?
I have a high respect and higher regards to him as a producer. People used to say that Shyam is a passionate producer. And I feel that it is an understatement. He is so clear about what he wants and he gets it to the precision level of 99.9%.

I would like to narrate an incident that shows his commitment level. The set was ready and three designers were summoned to do costumes for Jejamma character. It cost around 4 lacs for the costumes. He asked me to wear them and stand in the set. Immediately he said that it’s not working and asked them scrap the costumes. Any other producer would have hesitated to trash a 4 lac worth costume. He asked me to find another designer and we roped Deepa in.

How many days did you work for Arundhati?
Around 150 days.

Was it stressful?
It was stressful physically. But on the psychological level, we were extremely charged up all the time. It was like making a magnum opus. All of us believed that the movie is bigger than individuals. Each and every individual shown 100% commitment and contributed their might. Everybody was focused. There are two guys from Art department (Venkatesh and Krishna) who surprised me with this willingness to go for an extra mile. They used to work for 24 hours and were still willing to do more. There is another guy called Kunkuma Raju who took care of continuity. He is so obsessed with his work that he makes sure that even a strand of hair is perfectly arranged to make sure of continuity.

What is your gut feel on the film?
I am feeling very positive about the film. I saw the rushes in monitor when the shot was complete at shooting location. I have not seen the final product yet. People might think that it is a horror film. Arundhati is not a horror film. It is a thriller film with every emotion evenly incorporated in it. It has high emotions.

This is your first female oriented film? Will your story selection criteria change after this film’s release?
I was only 3 films old when I accepted this film. Working for Arundhati is like going to school for me. Arundhati film helped me to grow as an actress. I would like to balance my future projects by doing both masala characters and author backed roles.

What are the other projects you are doing at present?
I am doing Billa with Prabhas. The shooting has been continuously going on in Malaysia since November 2008. I signed Tamil remake of Vikramarkudu with Karthik as hero. I am doing another Tamil film with Vijay as hero.

colors swathi

She is young, bubbly, sassy and perhaps the most precious find for the Telugu Film Industry in the recent years. It's Colors Swati for you, who brought a young presence to the small screen with her chat show Colors on Maa TV couple of years back. The year 2008 proven to be lucky for this Visakhapatnam girl. Besides stabilizing her position with Tollywood in the role of Lavanya in Ashta Chemma she also stepped in to Kollywood with Subramaniyapuram. Currently riding high on the crest of success wave, Swati gives an exclusive interview to idlebrain.com. Here are the excerpts.

Background:
I was born in Vladivostok (USSR). My father worked for the Indian Navy and he was then posted in USSR as a submariner. The Russian lady doctor named me as ‘Svetlana’ which means ‘beautiful girl’ but mom changed it to Swati.

We shifted to Bombay and then we moved to the Eastern Naval Command in Vizag. I spent most of my childhood in Vizag. We shifted to Hyderabad when I was in my 11th standard. I had some free time after EAMCET and my aunt Lakshmi Medapati was doing a program for MAA TV and she wanted me to do a promo. I was not interested. I was not very familiar with Telugu as I was brought up in the Naval community where we would communicate mostly in Hindi and English. She took me to the studio and the make-up irritated me. They asked me to talk about movies. I talked about Spider man, Vizag beach and necklace road. Everybody started clapping after I finished the test and I wondered why. Adavi Srinivas from MAA TV called my mother and told her that he is planning a program called ‘Colors’ and wanted me to host that program. I started it as time pass and did more than 150 episodes. It started with a 30 minute slot on Wednesday. Then it was shifted to 30-minute slot on Saturday. With the popularity it gained, Colors program was given 1-hour prime spot on Sunday in less than two months of its first episode.

I joined bio technology course at St. Mary’s in Yusuf Guda. I liked the atmosphere in that college, because they do not give any extra attention to celebrities and popular faces. I did quite well in studies and am extremely thankful to all my teachers, especially my chemistry teacher Shobha ma’am and the prinicpal Mahender Reddy of St.Mary’s who always supported and encouraged me.

I got many film offers the moment I started anchoring Colors program. I had just turned 17 then and I was too young to do films. I had zero inclination towards acting in films. I wanted to finish my graduation. At the same time I kept my loyalties to Colors program and MAA TV. Every program comes with a shelf life and I decided to discontinue Colors program when it was highly popular.

After completion of 1st year of graduation, I got an offer to make my debut in Danger. It was a nice package to debut. Krishna Vamsi had taken permission from my principal. After 2nd year, I accepted AMAV (Adavari Matalaku Ardhalu Verule). After 3rd year, I did Subramanyapuram (Tamil) and Ashta Chemma.

What did you want to become when you were a kid?
I wanted to become a doctor, and once when I went to the circus as kid I got so overwhelmed with it that I wanted to join the circus and run away with them. I also loved the way lady naval officers looked in their uniforms. I wanted to join defense. Now I realize that I landed in the right profession because I will get an opportunity to do all the roles I aspired to become.

Do you like being called as ‘Colors’ Swati?
I do agree that Colors got me immense recognition. But I want to be called as Swati. I would like to have an identity for myself. I don’t want people to associate me with any of the work I have done. When people call me ‘colors’ in public, I refuse to acknowledge them.

What is the difference between anchoring and acting?
In colors program, only two people are involved. One is me and the other one is the caller. But, our conversation should entertain many people who are no way connected with both of us. In order to entertain, I had to appear highly energetic and hyperactive. And just because I appear hyperactive, people might think that I am that kind of a person in real life. I could speak crazy stuff and get away with it in ‘colors’ program. But acting is more serious and complex job.

So how different is real Swati compared to the characters you have done on TV and big screen?
I am a bundle of contradictions. It also depends on the person I am with and the mood I am in. I am little bit of every thing.

What is your current status?
I have completed my graduation. All the directors I have worked with have advised me not take my talent for granted and had asked me to give acting a serious shot and now I have decided I should continue working in films. It is very difficult to reach the position I am in now. I should make use of it. I did four different characters in four films. I am proud of them.

How do you do acting?
The whirling sound of camera when it rolls is the one that triggers the actor in me. I go to a different space when camera rolls.

I feel that filmmaking is a team work. All of us should contribute our best in order to make a film happen. Even if a light boy does a bad job, it reflects on the film. One individual can cause damage to the entire product. Hence I try to be perfect on my side all the time.

Which is the most watched film among yours?
I watched Asta Chemma five times. I remember watching Ashta Chemma in a packed theater for 10:30 pm show. We did not have a place to sit. We were standing and looking at the reactions of audiences instead of watching the screen. It was such a gratifying experience watching the audiences getting entertained by our films.

Tell us about your parents?
Ours is a closely knit family. I have an elder brother Siddharth. My dad works for the Merchant Navy now. My mother always stood by me. My parents are very supportive and very friendly. There is lot of communication among us. I am blessed and very fortunate to have such a supportive family. Touchwood!

What is your take on gossips?
People think that films are easy but it is the exact opposite. Most people’s lives thrive on films (watching and gossiping). Ours is such a field where anybody can criticize. I do take criticism in the right spirit but it also depends on who is giving it and I am growing to a level where I am not perturbed by malicious gossips.

Are you a fan of Mahesh Babu in real life too?
I am not a frantic fan to anybody. That kind of obsession comes in your teens. I was in showbiz in my teens years and I got a chance to meet all the film celebrities personally.

Your best work till date?
I give my best to all my films, each one is special in its own way.

You dubbed your voice to Ileana in Jalsa. Tell us about it?
I treat dubbing as a valuable profession. I feel that it is as challenging as acting. I do perform while doing dubbing in a dubbing theater.

What do you do in your spare time?
I prefer lazying around at home, reading, writing and doing my own thing.

What kind of books do you read?
I loved reading Gone with the wind
, Crime & Punishment, Anthem and am still reading Anna Karenina. I read books of Sidney Sheldon, Robin Cook, Jeffrey Archer, John Grisham, Arthur Hayley, Lin Yutang for light reading but I also love reading Paulo Cohelo, Ayn Rand and many more, the list can go on. If I like a book by an author, I try and read the entire collection of that author, though it’s not easy and I enjoyed the entire collection of Harry Potter.

What do you write?
I do blog. But I don’t want to reveal the address of my blog. I do blog when I am upset or happy. I love writing long e-mails to communicate and to stay in touch, but only to friends and dear ones.

What is your opinion on movies made on books?
It depends. Ashta Chemma was beautifully interpreted, all thanks to Mohan Krishna, but usually we get much bigger impression when we read books. I saw the Harry Potter film. But I like Harry Potter book much better.

What kind of films did you watch when you were kid?
Mary Poppins, Sound of Music
, almost all the films by Mani Ratnam, Arth, Damini, Mausum, Mr. India and Kshanakshanam to name a few. Mr. India, Anjali, Mayabazaar and ET were my favorite films when I was a kid.

What kind of films you want to do in future?
I am getting very good offers but most of them are coming to be with a preconceived notion that I am capable of doing only certain kind of roles. I don’t want to go by public image. I want to do different films.

Who are your favorite actresses?
It changes with movies. I like certain actresses in certain films.

Tamanna

Tamanna shot to fame with her portrayal of Madhu character in the blockbuster Happy Days. She got equally busy in Tamil and Telugu film industry. She is playing the role of a village girl Geeta in 5 February release KIKK. Here is the exclusive interview of Tamanna Bhatia

How is life after the success of Happy Days movie?
Happy Days success made me busy in Telugu and Tamil film industries. I am doing all quality projects now.

How did KIKK happen?
I was looking to do a quality love story and KIKK came on my way. It was a perfect choice for me. I am playing the role of Geeta. I am doing the role of a village girl for the first time in my career. Geeta is also understated and sober person. She has principles and certain views which she follows religiously. It is a sweet character.

How is like working with Siddhardh?
I saw Nuvvostanante Nenoddantana and Siddhardh is a fabulous actor. I also loved Rang De Basanthi. We make a perfect couple of KIKK. Siddhardh is awesome in love stories.

Tell us about the director Kishore Kumar?
Though he is a first timer, you do never feel that you are working with a debutant director. He is confident about the script. Script is the biggest plus of the film. He has got great organization skills which made the jobs of us easier. We finished the shoot as per the schedule because of his planning.

How is Bujji as a producer?
He is thorough professional and would go to any extent to get his product right.

What do you think will be highlights of the film?
Apart from the script, music and the combination of Siddhardh and Prakash Raj are going to be highlights.

1. Music: Music is interwoven with the story. All the numbers of KIKK are melodious and meaningful. Music will pep-up the film and raise the levels of emotional scenes.

2. Prakash Raj – Siddhardh combination: Prakash Raj and Siddhardh make the perfect pair of father and son. They played as father and son in NVNV and Bommarillu. But their relationship in KIKK is going to be entirely different.

Which language do you prefer – Telugu or Tamil?
My preference is always to the script. Not to any language.

What do you look for in scripts?
I look for the pace (speed) in narration. I feel that pace is very important along with the emotions for any film.

What are the other projects you are doing now?
I am currently doing the Tamil remake of Jab We Met which is being produced by Moser Baer. Bharat (Premiste fame) plays male lead. I am also doing another Tamil film in Lingu Swamy direction. Karthik plays the hero. I got offers in huge projects of Telugu cinema including that of Mahesh Babu, but could not accept them due to dates problem.

Who is your role model as an actress?
I grew up watching Madhuri Dixit films. Madhuri Dixit is my role model.

What is your dream role?
Chandramukhi character played by Jyothika.

Did you watch any movies recently?
I watched Ghajini and Slumdog Millionaire. I loved both the films. I am highly impressed with the soundtrack of Slumdog Millionaire. It is as haunting as that of Titanic soundtrack.

What are your all time favorite movies?
Titanic, Moghul E Azam, Life is Beautiful, Dil To Pagal Hain and DDLJ.

How do you maintain your fitness?
I do make sure that I workout for 30 minutes to one hour every day. I do run, exercise or dance. Consistency is important.

What about diet?
I avoid fattening foods (fried or oily). I don’t stop any anything, but eat little bit of everything. I eat in small quantities.

How do you manage your looks?
I have to take care of what God has given me. I do sleep a lot. I do take off make-up as soon as the shooting is over. I do take right food. The body recuperates faster if our diet is good.

What are your hobbies?
I sleep a lot. I do watch lots of films in my spare time. I do relax and prefer to me along whenever I find some idle time. I do also write poetry and quotations. I am a day-dreamer.

Shraddha Das

We hardly find any actress from Mumbai to be so determined and passionate about making a bright long term career in Telugu. She grabbed five Telugu films in a gap of six months. She learnt Telugu and fighting her way up to become a notable heroine in Telugu cinema. Checkout idlebrain.com’s exclusive interview with this upcoming actress Shraddha Das

Background:
I am basically a Bengali. I was born and brought up in Mumbai. I graduated in Mass Communications with a specialization in journalism from SIES (South Indian Education Society), Mumbai. I was a nerd at school and was very fond of studies. My father also asked us to concentrate on studies.

Life changed for me after Sushmita Sen won Miss Universe. She was an inspiration for me when I was a kid. She is the perfect definition of beauty with brains. I wanted to be like her. Generally, Bengalis are known for their inclination towards various arts. I learnt singing and dancing. I used to sing and compere local events in free time.

While doing my graduation I worked in theater. I attended workshops conducted by the NSD (National School of Drama) artists like Piyush Mishra, Chittaranjan Giri and Salim Shah. I acted in print adverisements like McDowells, Aristocrat and over 400 catalogues. After that I got grooming in Gladrags academy.

Lahore
During the last year of my college, I got an offer to work for a film titled Lahore which focuses on India-Pakistan relationship. The shooting of this film took place for one and half years. This film is due for the release in this summer. It has won an award at Houston Film Festival.

Target and Siddhu from Sikakulam
That was when I auditioned for a Telugu film titled Target. I didn’t know anything about Telugu film industry. I accepted that film and acted in it. I attended the premiere of Gamyam at that time and Allari Naresh noticed me. He recommended me to his film Siddhu from Srikakulam. But I was betrayed. They told that it was the role of a heroine and I realized later that my character in that movie is worse than that of a second heroine. I didn’t leave that project in midway because I didn’t want to be branded as unprofessional. I was very upset for doing such a bad film.

Arya 2
A still of mine came in Times of India during that time. Allu Arjun saw my photo in Times of India and recommended me to the director Sukumar for an important role in Arya 2. They were looking for a glamorous girl for the character Shanti. They took around 3 months to confirm me for that role. I feel that Arya 2 is turning point in my career. The way Sukumar shows me in such a way that glamorous does not mean exposing. There is substance to it. Sukumar is one of my favorite film personalities. I would like to thank Allu Arjun for recommending me.

Diary
I signed Diary – a sequel of Mantra. Diary is a psychological thriller like Mantra. The entire team of Mantra is repeated except for the director and the heroine. I don't wear any make-up in this movie. My character transforms from a timid girl to a daring girl who scares you. There are various shades and variations in that character from the beginning to end.

Adhineta
In Adhineta film, I did the role of a village belle. It is a regular commercial heroine character. I did this character to satisfy myself that I could also do masala heroine role.

Five films happened in a gap of six months

You lost 18 kgs after Target film. How did it happen?
I was 68 when I did Target and I am 50 kgs now. I reduced weight because I have been working continuously for the past six months. I also learnt martial arts (kickboxing, taekwondo, sword fighting and karate) from Kaushal – Moses (who worked for Abbas Mastan films).

I drink boiling water (mostly Green Tea) all the time. I am very particular about my diet. I avoid eating carbohydrates during night. I eat only proteins (egg whites and soya panneer) in the night.

What do you want to see yourself as in future?
I am not here just like any other Bombay girl. I am not here for money. I am here to stay. I want to become the number one heroine of Telugu film industry. I will surely attain that position one day. I am learning Telugu language and keeping myself updated about happenings in Telugu film industry all the time. Even in my dreams, I think about my profession. I want to work with all the best actors and the best directors.

Why are you so passionate about acting in Telugu film and pursuing career here?
I am always passionate and dedicated about whatever I do. I want to be perfect. I want to act in all kind of roles. I want portray all emotions on screen. In Telugu film industry, everything works on the basis of merit. I love this place. I have a drive to prove myself as best actress. I want to call Hyderabad my first home and Mumbai my second home.

Who are your role models?
I like the way Sushmita Sen carries herself. I want to be like her – beauty with brains. I also like Priyanka Chopra and Rani Mukherjee for the way they fought their way up.

What are your dream roles?
I want to see myself doing Fashion, Black, Jab We Met and Kill Bill kind of roles

What kind of films do you like?
I love romantic comedies and horror flicks.

What are your hobbies?
Swimming and watching Telugu TV channels to learn Telugu. I also read lots of books on positive thinking.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Hyper sensitivity is both my strength and weakness. It’s my strength because acting comes easy to hyper sensitive people. I can cry without using glycerin in emotional scenes. It is my weakness because hyper sensitivity is not a healthy trait.

Tell us about family?
I have a younger brother who studies in college. My parents are proud about the way I handle myself. My brother is jealous because my father gives partial treatment to me. My parents are my worst critics.

What are your favorite restaurants in Mumbai?
I love Thai food and I like to go to Thai Ban when in Mumbai. I also like Bombay Blue that serves Mexican food.

Do you have a boy friend?
I have decided to marry a guy of my father’s choice. May be after 10 years, I will get married. I believe in arranged marriage. I feel that love marriage is not possible in the profession I am in. That is why you will never hear me linked up to any actor.

Why is it so?
My entire atmosphere is surrounded by film people. And the relationships are plastic and temporary in film industry. I am extremely bad at judging people. If I fall in love here, he will end up being a bad person. I trust the judgment of my parents

Manoj Manchu

Manoj Manchu’s life is changed after the release of Nenu Meeku Telusa. He got recognized as a different actor who doesn’t give a damn to the stereotypical characters and routine filmmakers. He has a series of different films lined up. Prayanam - his latest film in Chandra Sekhar Yeleti combination will be releasing this month. Here are the excerpts of our latest interview with Manoj Manchu


How is life after Nenu Meeku Telusa (NMT)?
NMT changed my life. I did films which I personally never liked in the past. NMT is a project of my choice. I bagged lots of exciting projects because of my performance in NMT.

How did you get Prayanam film?
I had been a great fan of Krishna Vamsi, Gangaraju Gunnam and Chandra Sekhar Yeleti. I got to know about the story line of Prayanam through Ajay Sastri who is a buddy of Chandu. I approached Chandu and asked him to consider me. He said that I was not considered as he felt that I was a commercial hero. He took me in and that’s how Prayanam happened.

Tell us about the character you play in this movie?
I am doing the role of a hyper-active kid who is into traveling. It is a weird characterization. I didn’t wear make-up in the episodes that took place in Malaysian airport. It is a neatly crafted character and the credit must go to the director.

What is your observation on the director Chandra Sekhar Yeleti?
He got the script ready and characterizations perfect much before the start of the shoot. He explained my character and asked me to come with my own interpretations. I went to him with 4 variations and he picked up one. I used method acting in this movie. He used to conduct 2 hour workshop every day throughout the shoot. In that workshop, all of us used to practice our lines and do rehearsals for the next day’s shoot.

What was the biggest challenge for you in Prayanam?
The story of the movie happens for 2 hours and it took 40 days to shoot the film. The physical appearance should change in a gap of 40 days, but we have to make sure that continuity is intact as story happens in 2 hours duration. It was a challenging job to have perfect continuity.

We used to start from our dugouts at 6:30 am and used to get back by 9 pm. It was a hectic schedule. I felt home sick. My father made a surprise visit and stayed with me for 4 days. My sister also came and accompanied me for a couple of days.

Tell us about other technical departments of Prayanam?
Music by Mahesh is going to be highlight. He gave meaningful music and terrific background score for the movie. Prayanam movie will be like a musical poetry as the music is integrated at the script level. I also loved the camera work by Sarvesh Murari. He will be working for my next project with Veera Potla as well.

I would like to give a special mention about the executive producer Sudheer who did an amazingly responsible and honest job. He worked really hard. And I loved all the members of the direction department and they are going to rock when they come out and make movies independently. I would love to work in any of their future projects.

How did you manage food in your 40-days stay in Malaysia?
We frequent KFC and MdDonald’s for food in airport. I used to crave for biryani, but they make it with dry fish (endu chepalu) or dry prawns (endu royyalu) in Malaysia. Food was a major problem for me out there.

Lots of Telugu summer releases are shot in Malaysia. Billa, Veedokkade and Mitrudu are already released and Kick and other films are due for the release. Don’t you think locations in Prayanam will be stale by the release time?
Most of the movie takes place in the airport. We went to Malaysia only because we got the permission from the airport authorities for such an extensive shoot. Our intentions were never to show Malaysian locations. Hence there is no competition regarding that aspect. We shot the film in Malaysia as the story demands it.