The rise of Anushka Shetty as the only contemporary female hero of Telugu cinema is astonishing considering how single-mindedly patriarchal the Telugu film industry is supposed to be. After doing author-backed parts in Arundhati, Panchakshari and Irandaam Ulagaam, she again plays the central part in the soon-to-be-released Rudhramadevi and Size Zero. Anushka talks about her amazing journey with Subhash K. Jha
Q. You started your career in 2005. Take us back to the early days of your career...
I was a yoga instructor when Puri Jagannath discovered me for Super. I had no idea what acting was all about. For the first one-and-a-half years, I just wanted to quit. I couldn’t understand the industry. When Puri signed me I didn’t know I was supposed to ask him about my role. I had no photographs so I gave him my passport photos. I didn’t know anything about dialogue delivery, camera angles.
Q. DIdn’t the Telugu film industry help you to find your bearings?
Very much so. I hold people like Puri Jagannath, Nagarjuna and E. Niwas in high esteem.
Q. Baahubali has finally introduced you to a pan-India audience. What took you so long?
I would have made my Bollywood debut with Singham 2. But things didn’t work out. I am glad Baahubali has made such an impact. There is a lot more of me in the sequel.
Q. You must be very proud to be part of such a historic hit?
Who wouldn’t be? I did one of my initial films, Vikramarkudu, with Rajamouli. So we’ve known each other for six years. It was a great opportunity to do Baahubali. There are so many shades to my character.
Q. You’ve another fascinating historical character to play in your new release Rudhramadevi…
Yes, I play the title role. This is a historical character from the 13th century. I play a woman who made a huge difference to the history of South India. Unlike Baahubali, where I could work on my character through my imagination, Rudhramadevi really existed. Sadly there was no data on how she dressed, talked and behaved. Rana Daggubati plays my love interest. Though I don’t know if in 13th century it was called love...
Q. What impact did this character have on your life?
Oh, tremendous. It was only after playing Rudhramadevi that I realised how little we know about those historical figures who shaped the destiny of our civilization. I really can’t blame anyone as I’ve been ignorant of our history.
Q. Would you say you’ve ushered in the era of the female hero in Telugu cinema?
There are some very important films featuring strong roles for female characters happening now. They had stopped for a while. I have to thank M. Shyam Prasad Reddy who gave me a chance to do Arundhati. Because he showed that confidence, other producers also came forward.
Q. Tell us a bit about yourself…
I’ve two older brothers. My family lives in Bengaluru while I work from Hyderabad and Chennai. Whenever I am not working I am home in Bengaluru. Since I was a yoga instructor — Bharat Thakur was my guru — I’ve yoga friends all over India.
Q. Do you continue to be a yoga guru?
I wish I could. But it requires the discipline and focus that I am right now giving to my acting career.
Q. Why did you opt out the Hindi version of Singham 2?
I met Rohit Shetty and our meeting went very well. But there were lots of issues. And it didn’t work out. But I look forward to doing a Hindi film soon. Right now I am busy with my Telugu assignments.
Q. Why would you covet Bollywood when you’re the queen in South?
I’d be able to learn so much if I did a Hindi film. But the role has to be substantial. I did get some offers in Hindi other than Singham 2, but nothing that excited me. Not that I haven’t done my share of running around trees. But at this stage of my career I’ve to seek something substantial.
Q. Tell us about Baahubali 2…
We’ve shot a bit already for it. But the actual shooting has not commenced. We’ll begin soon. There are many revelations yet to be made. I am very excited about it.
Q. How long do you wish to continue as an actor?
I haven’t planned anything. I know all this is not permanent. Luckily the opportunities came to me. I believe in destiny. Only now have I started enjoying my work. I love the magic of the movies.
Q. Do you believe heroines are not given their due in the Telugu industry?
I’ve had my share of highs and lows. If as a leading lady you are ready to dedicate time to your roles, the rules will change. I am proud to be part of that change.
