A non-typical role for Hebah Patel

Telisinavallu, starring Ram Karthik and Hebah Patel is a blend of elements, and Viplove Koneti, the director, says he doesn’t wish to classify it under any particular genre.

“The plot revolves around a girl wanting to end her life for a reason,” explains the director. The film starts off as a romantic drama. “But as it progresses, comedy, a murder-mystery and supernatural elements take over,” he says.

Apparently, Hebah, who has so far been seen as glamorous, will appear in a de-glam role. “One of the reasons I cast her was because I wanted an actress who doesn’t have any ‘image’. Also, I was looking for an actress who hasn’t done any thriller-genre films,” he explains, adding that he believes Hebah is a performer.

Elaborating on Hebah’s role, Viplove, who is also producing the film, says, “She plays a girl who makes cookies. She will be seen in traditional outfits throughout the film.” He also shares that Hebah had to unlearn a few things for the part.

“So far, she has played hyperactive roles, but since this is a subdued and composed role, I asked her to give up that characteristic, and instead bring out the gracefulness in her. I also asked her to study Julia Roberts’s role in the film Notting Hill,” Viplove says, adding that incidentally, the Roger Michell directorial was Hebah’s favourite film too.