What inspired you to return to South cinema with Junior after such a long break?
The offer for Junior came to me three years ago, and at first, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to take it on. But after hearing about the story and the character, and with Ritesh speaking highly of it, I decided to move forward. The way the director explained my role made it even more intriguing, and I’m thrilled about this decision.
How would you describe your character in Junior?
My character is something entirely new for me. It’s a strong and commanding role that I’ve never played before. She’s not just serious, but a boss-like figure who goes through significant personal growth throughout the film. The director handled these changes in a very unique and fresh way, which makes it special.
What stands out about Kireeti Reddy’s performance in the film?
Kireeti is a confident and talented actor who impressed me with his energy. His dancing and performance were exceptional, and he put in a lot of effort, which truly shows on screen. Working with him was a great experience.
You’ve worked with many great talents. How was it working with K.K. Senthil Kumar?
We’ve previously collaborated on Sai films, and working with him again after his success with Baahubali and RRR was fantastic. His expertise in cinematography brought a special touch to Junior.
Looking back, do you regret stepping away from acting at the peak of your career?
Not at all. Life has its ups and downs, but I’ve been fortunate enough to work in memorable films like Bommarillu and Hasee. The fact that audiences still remember me for those characters fills me with immense joy.
Are you considering continuing your acting career in the future?
Absolutely. If the right roles come along, whether big or small, I’m ready to return. I want to play characters that leave an impact, and I’m definitely open to meaningful roles.
How do you think audiences will react to your role in Junior?
I’m excited to see how the audience responds to my character, as it’s unlike anything I’ve done before. I believe the uniqueness of my role will resonate with them, and I’m looking forward to the film’s release on July 18.
Do you have any dream roles in mind?
Being part of the industry and receiving love from the audience has already been a dream come true for me. I don’t have any specific dream roles beyond that, as I’m happy with the work I’ve done and continue to do.
What’s your opinion about your co-star Sri Leela?
Sri Leela is a fantastic dancer and performer. She brings an incredible amount of energy to the film, and working with her was a real pleasure. She has such a vibrant presence on screen.
How do you feel about Devi Sri Prasad’s music for Junior?
Devi Sri Prasad is a brilliant composer, and having him on board for Junior added a lot of positive energy to the film. The song "Viral Vayyari" has been a huge hit, and it’s one that both Ritesh and I are especially fond of.
What was your experience working with producer Sai?
Sai has been incredibly supportive throughout the production. He ensured that everything was taken care of, making sure the film was made on a grand scale with no compromises. His dedication to the project is something I truly appreciated.
You’ve worked with legends like Kota Srinivasa Rao. What was that experience like?
It was an honor to work with Kota Srinivasa Rao. He is a legend in the industry, and I learned so much from him. His absence is a great loss, but the memories of working with him will stay with me forever.
With stars like Ram Charan, NTR, and Bunny dominating the pan-India scene, how do you feel about the industry’s growth?
They’re all dear friends of mine, and it’s amazing to see their rise to stardom. Their success makes me incredibly happy, and I’m proud to be part of an industry that is growing globally.
Would you work with Ritesh again?
Absolutely. We had a great time working together on Majili, which was a huge success. If the right love story comes along, I would love to collaborate with Ritesh again.
All the best for Junior!
Thank you! I’m so excited for everyone to see the film. I’m confident it will be a memorable experience for the audience.
