'Gamanam' will be released in theatres on December 10. Directed by Sujana Rao, the hyperlink film is headlined by Shriya Saran. Priyanka Jawalkar has played Siva Kandukuri's love interest in the movie.
In this interview, the 'SR Kalyanamandapam' actress talks about her character, working with a female director, her upcoming movies, and more.
It was producer Gnanasekhar VS garu who first approached me. Since the character is a Muslim girl, they made a look test. Zara is seen wearing pardah in the movie. She is an orthodox college-going Muslim girl. She doesn't talk much and emotes through silences. Her eyes convey emotions.
I had some references. Nithya Menen's acting in 'Malli Malli Idhi Rani Roju' was one of the references. I have a lot of Muslim friends and neighbours. I have grown up observing them. So, it was not difficult.
'Gamanam' has got three separate tracks narrated in a hyperlink format. The character has got a lot of scope for performance. I don't want to stick to commercial films and mainstream roles. If I play offbeat roles, the directors, too, will know that I am game for different subjects.
The film is close to reality. We have seen films like 'Vedam'. I was sold on the film when I came to know that Maestro Ilaiyaraja garu is the music director. It was nice working with Siva Kandukuri. He is more of a friend. Since he is a friend, I struggled to show shyness in his presence (laughs).
Charu Haasan sir has played Siva's grandfather in the movie. He is aged and is a surprise package. I have a combination scene with him. I was scared to do the scene with him. It's a rain scene and he couldn't have stood in the rain for long. I was particular about getting the take right.
It was comfortable working with a female director because I was able to express myself freely. And I was comfortable working with Gnanasekhar garu, who is a brilliant cinematographer. Since he is also the producer, he was more involved.
A film takes at least six months to be completed. If I have to get up in the morning and go to the shoot, the story should excite me. A love story offers an actress scope to last longer in terms of screen-time. Everything depends on how effective the writing is.
I want to work with many heroes. I have auditioned for Hindi Netflix. Nothing concrete has happened so far. I am hoping for something to be firmed up. If I get a bold role, I will accept it only if the story is good. 'Arjun Reddy' was found to be bold by many. But I didn't think so.
I believe in destiny. I had no hopes for 'Thimmarusu' and 'SR Kalyanamandapam' because they were released during the second wave. To my surprise, they did very well, especially the latter in 'B' and 'C' centres in Andhra.
