A trained dancer since she was only four, this Malayalam actress from Kannur is also an expert in diverse classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathakali and Mohiniattam. Performing on stage was a large part of Poorna’s childhood even as she juggled studies.
Later, acting took her on a path that explored her other talents as well. With more than 25 films to her credit, she has been busy essaying roles in regional language films — Tamil, Telugu and Kannada. Popular for her role in Sivamani’s Josh for playing the character of a school girl, Poorna, whose name was earlier Shamna Kasim, is now making a comeback in Kannada cinema with a 600-year-old mythological thriller — Suvarna Sundari.
“Dancing has always been my passion and it was my parents — Kasim and my mother Ramla Beevi’s encouragement and support that helped me learn dancing at an early age.
“My first stage performance was when I was just four. In fact, it is dance that lead to my acting career. After my participtation in one of the most popular dance reality shows, I made my debut film Manjupoloru Penkutti in 2004,” says Poorna. Thereafter, she featured in several supporting characters before a big break in her Telugu debut film Sri Mahalakshmi, followed by her Tamil debut film, Muniyandi Vilangial Moonramandu.
She made her Kannada debut in Sivamani’s Josh in 2009 which went on to become a huge commercial success. Though she made her comeback with Radhana Ganda, it failed to do any magic. And now, she is back as the golden beauty in Suvarna Sundari directed by journalist-turned-director Soorya.
“I am thrilled with Suvarna Sundari, which is very unique and I play one of the three women characters. It is being made both in Kannada and Telugu. My character has different shades and it is being shot with great technical support. Some portions will be in black and white, and it is going to be a visual treat for the audience as its shot with utmost technical excellence. The characters date back to 600 years in the Vijayanagara empire and the detailing of the shots are very unique. It is even about reincarnation,” reveals Poorna.The bilingual title is inspired from that of 1957 Telugu film starring Dr Akkineni Nageshwara Rao.
“Along with dancing and acting, I have done my MBA, and I am looking forward to doing more good films. As I was always busy with dance, acting, giving performances on stage, and even studies, I had no time for other hobbies and I hope to make more time for other things once I am settled,” she smiles.
Apart from the bilingual, her most-awaited upcoming release is Savarakathi which is directed by G R Adithya, and written and produced by his brother Mysskin. Before she signs off ahead of another stage performance in Dubai, she pins her hopes on Suvarna Sundari and hopes that it will bring back her glorious Josh days in Kannada.
