How would you describe your character Kaveri in ‘Irumudi’?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: If you have watched the trailer, you may already have a basic idea about the story. Kaveri is a simple family woman whose entire world revolves around her husband and daughter. She takes great care of her family and is deeply connected to them.
Playing Kaveri was a completely new experience for me because I have never portrayed a character like this before. We often come across women like Kaveri in real life, and I have personally seen many such people. That is why I believe audiences will easily relate to her.
What attracted you when Shiva Nirvana narrated the story?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: Shiva Nirvana writes wonderful stories and characters. I really liked the story when he narrated it to me. I have watched his previous films as well, and ‘Ninnu Kori’ is one of my favourites. I generally watch a lot of Telugu films.
One of the strongest elements in ‘Irumudi’ is the father-daughter emotion. It is universal and can connect with people anywhere in the world. The bond between the characters is something audiences across different regions and cultures can understand.
How was your experience working with Ravi Teja?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: Ravi Teja is an actor with incredible energy. Matching his energy is definitely not easy. I had watched many of his films before working with him, but when I acted alongside him, I discovered a completely different side of his personality.
He is extremely down-to-earth and also a great performer. Working with him was a wonderful experience.
What was it like working with director Shiva Nirvana?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: Shiva Nirvana gives actors a lot of freedom. He discusses scenes with the cast and is also open to suggestions when they can improve a sequence. I think that is a very good quality in a director.
He remains positive and calm on the sets, which creates a comfortable atmosphere for the actors. Working with him was an easy and enjoyable experience.
What was the biggest challenge in playing Kaveri?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: Kaveri and I are completely different personalities. In real life, I am nothing like her. As an actor, however, it is always interesting to play characters that are very different from who you are personally.
The Telugu language was another challenge because the dialogue is not in urban Telugu. The character speaks with a rural dialect, and getting the pronunciation and rhythm of those lines right required extra effort.
How was the shooting experience?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: I participated in nearly 30 days of shooting in the Sileru region. The locations added exactly the kind of action-thriller atmosphere that the story needed.
At the same time, shooting in remote areas was challenging. The terrain and locations were not always easy, but visually they contributed greatly to the mood and world of the film.
What kind of experience will ‘Irumudi’ offer audiences?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: The trailer shows how lovingly and responsibly the father, played by Ravi Teja, raises his daughter. Another important aspect of the film is the idea that children should feel comfortable sharing whatever happens in their lives with their parents.
Parents need to create an environment where children can openly speak to them without fear. I think the film will make audiences reflect on that aspect. Along with the thriller elements, ‘Irumudi’ has a very strong emotional connection.
What can you say about GV Prakash Kumar’s music?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: GV Prakash is a National Award-winning composer, and his albums are always impressive. After joining ‘Irumudi’, he sent a message saying that he felt the film had the potential to become a classic cult movie and a definite blockbuster.
He is extremely excited about the film, and his music adds another important dimension to the overall experience.
How was your experience working with Mythri Movie Makers?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: Mythri Movie Makers is one of the biggest production houses in India. They produce every film on a grand scale and approach their projects with a lot of passion.
This was not an easy film to shoot, especially because of the locations and production requirements. However, the team at Mythri Movie Makers took excellent care of everyone. Working with them was a very good experience.
Do you have any dream roles you would like to play?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: I am a very happy person in real life, but so far I have mostly played serious characters. I would now love to do roles that have more fun and humour.
I even told director Shiva Nirvana the same thing. I would really like to do a film where I get the opportunity to make audiences laugh.
Can you share an update about ‘Dhootha 2’?
Priya Bhavani Shankar: The shooting for ‘Dhootha 2’ has already started, and it will continue the story from the first season.
At the same time, ‘Demonte Colony 3’ is also getting ready for release. A few other projects are currently under discussion, and more details will be announced at the right time.
