How did the journey of O.! Sukumari begin?
Aishwarya Rajesh: Producer Maheswar Reddy first approached me regarding the project. Director Bharat Darshan later narrated the story, after which I read the complete screenplay. I found the concept fresh and different. My character, Damini, has a unique quality—anyone who touches her receives an electric shock. It is an interesting and entertaining element. The film mainly follows Damini’s journey, and I believe audiences will enjoy watching it.
How do you feel about working with new directors?
Aishwarya Rajesh: All of us were newcomers at some point. Throughout my career, I have worked with several debut directors. What matters most is how a director narrates the story and the confidence they create in the actors. When you trust the director’s vision, it becomes easier to move forward with the project.
We hear that you also have an understanding of filmmaking and direction. Is that true?
Aishwarya Rajesh: I would not say that I have complete command over direction. However, after spending so many years in the film industry, I have gained a basic understanding of almost every department. I believe there is nothing wrong with sharing something we know or listening to suggestions from others. Filmmaking is a collaborative process, and everyone can contribute.
Even after a commercial blockbuster like Sankranthiki Vasthunam, you continue to choose varied characters. How do you view success and failure?
Aishwarya Rajesh: I once delivered five consecutive hits in Tamil cinema. During that year, our house was filled with bouquets. The following year, I had only two successful films, and the number of bouquets arriving at home also decreased. However, whether I received many bouquets or only a few, nothing changed within me. The most important lesson I have learned during this journey is to remain confident and continue moving forward, regardless of success or failure.
Does O.! Sukumari also have a political angle?
Aishwarya Rajesh: Thiruveer plays a young man who dreams of becoming a corporator. The story revolves around two brothers whose father decides that his property will be inherited by whichever son has a male child first. During this situation, my character enters Thiruveer’s life. Damini is a woman who gives an electric shock to anyone who touches her. What happens after their meeting forms the central story. The scenes have turned out very well, and the film presents the concept in an entertaining manner.
How was your experience working with Thiruveer?
Aishwarya Rajesh: Thiruveer is a very talented actor. He performed this character in an extremely natural and convincing manner. I had previously worked with him in Tuck Jagadish, and I was very happy to collaborate with him once again for O.! Sukumari.
What would you like to say about producer Maheswar Reddy?
Aishwarya Rajesh: Maheswar Reddy approached me with the story of this film. He consistently supports films with fresh and unconventional concepts. I sincerely hope that O.! Sukumari becomes a major success and brings him the recognition he deserves.
What can audiences expect from the film’s music?
Aishwarya Rajesh: Bharat has composed the music in a fresh and distinctive manner. The songs are pleasant to listen to and have also been presented beautifully on screen.
Was speaking in the Telangana dialect difficult for you?
Aishwarya Rajesh: I am a Telugu woman, so I do not find any Telugu dialect particularly difficult. I am comfortable speaking in the dialects of different regions. I consider myself fortunate to receive opportunities to perform in various dialects across both Telugu and Tamil cinema.
Along with films, you are also doing several web series. What attracts you to digital platforms?
Aishwarya Rajesh: I believe actors should not ignore any platform. Web series have the ability to reach audiences across the world. My web series Suzhal received an excellent international response. Even when I travelled abroad, many people spoke to me about the series. It was released in nearly 34 languages. At present, I am working on one project for Amazon and another web series for JioHotstar.
Do you particularly enjoy playing different kinds of characters?
Aishwarya Rajesh: Yes. When I first entered the film industry, many people said that a heroine’s career usually lasts only three years. I believed it at the time and wanted to complete as many films as possible within that period. Including all languages and formats, I have now completed nearly 50 projects. I accepted almost every character because I genuinely liked something about the role.
What kinds of roles would you like to explore in the future?
Aishwarya Rajesh: I have not played many characters with strong negative shades. I would like to portray a powerful character similar to Neelambari. I am also interested in playing intense and psychologically complex roles involving themes such as obsession.
What would you like to tell audiences about O.! Sukumari?
Aishwarya Rajesh: O.! Sukumari is a cute village-based story filled with humour and entertainment. It also presents a fresh and unusual concept. I request audiences to watch the film in theatres and support our team.
All the best for the film.
Aishwarya Rajesh: Thank you.
