When actress Manali Rathod first signed the film, Fashion Designer s/o Ladies Tailor, she admits that she was quite intimidated by the thought of working with senior director Vamsy, who’s a legend in his own right. “Many people told me he’s very strict and that I should be careful around him. I was very scared by the time I was on the sets of the film, on the first day of shoot. That day I learnt a very important lesson — that I should never listen to hearsay! Vamsy sir was the most amazing person to work with and my fear proved to be silly. I feel blessed to have worked with him. I have learnt so much and after years of struggle, this film has come as a blessing for me,” shares Manali.
Apparently, her character in the film, Ammulu, was quite fun to transform into. “She’s a silent and innocent girl who doesn’t step out of her home but still falls into a guy’s trap. What follows is the twist in the tale,” reveals Manali, adding that the only trait she shares with her character is simplicity. “But unlike her, I can be naughty too, especially around people I am familiar with,” admits the actress.
Recalling how she landed the role, Manali says, “Sreedhar sir (producer Madhura Sreedhar) called me to meet Vamsy sir and specifically mentioned that I should dress in a very simple and traditional way. I did exactly that and soon enough, I was offered the film.” Having shot at several locations around Araku for the film, Manali says, “We all had a digital detox! No phone signals, staying in huts. It was an experience to cherish even though I was apprehensive about doing it all in the beginning.”
For now, the actress is quite excited that her film, Howrah Bridge, co-starring Rahul Ravindran, is up for release soon too. “I am thrilled that both the films could release within a very short gap,” she shares.
