Varsha Bollamma will be seen in 'Middle Class Melodies', which will stream on Amazon Prime from November 20. Starring Anand Deverakonda as the hero, the film is a comedy-drama. In this interview, the 'Whistle' and 'Jaanu' actress talks about her working experience, what makes the film unique, her favourite actors and more.
Background
I was born in Coorg, a small town in Karnataka. I did my Micro-Biology at a college in Bengaluru. My mother, who used to be a working professional, has been with me during shoots. I wanted to be an actress even as a child. Even though I did quite a few movies before the Tamil hit '96', I was noticed only after the movie came out. So, the transition into films wasn't smooth.
How 'MCM' happened
Before 'MCM', I did 'Chusi Choodangane' in Telugu. The editor of both movies is the same person. That's how he made me meet director Vinod Ananthoju. When I listened to the narration, the situations impressed me with their freshness and fun factor. Even though it is his first movie, Vinod looked as confident as a 5-movie old director on sets.
Biggest merit of 'MCM'
The biggest USP of 'MCM' is that it is relatable. So many have commented below the trailer that they are able to relate to the scoldings of the father's character in the trailer. Such things strike a chord with the audience.
Dubbing in Guntur accent
I have dubbed for myself in the Guntur slang for my character. The director was particular about getting the accent right. He prepared us for the dubbing stage much in advance. Although I am from Karnataka, I know both Tamil and Telugu. Dubbing is not a very easy thing because it's difficult to pull off the same emotion. I like to dub for my own movies. I was a little scared about trying a new accent. Since the director hails from Guntur, he has got a lot of command over the style of speaking.
Anand is so sweet
Anand is a director's actor. He looks gentle and relaxed, and is extremely sweet.
Raw, real music
People are in love with the 'Sandhya' song, which people are finding it addictive. Sweekar Agasthi, the music director, had debuted with 'Care Of Kancharapalem'. For 'MCM', he has given raw, amazing numbers by sticking to the mood of the story. Everything feels real and raw, much like the 'Guntur' song.
Shooting experience
The outdoor shoot was completed in Guntur, whereas the indoors were shot in Hyderabad. Something peculiar happened during the making of the film. I would wear a saree for some scenes and every time I wore it, it would rain and we had to cancel the shoot repeatedly.
Bhavya Creations treats artists with a lot of respect. They are so honest and prompt about everything.
Upcoming projects
'Stand Up Rahul' is my next movie in Telugu opposite Raj Tarun. I am also in talks for a Tamil project. I am getting performance-oriented movies and I hope I continue to get such roles.
Favourite actors
I have always admired Revathi ma'am, who is so versatile. Vijay Deverakonda is my favourite Telugu hero among the current lot. In Tamil, I like Thalapathy Vijay and also Vijay Sethpuathi. I find Rashmika Mandanna really cute. It's my dream to work with SS Rajamouli sir.
In Mollywood, the working pace is a lot faster. In Telugu, the style is completely different. Each industry is different.
