Where are you from, and how did you get your first film?
Dashvika K: I’m from Vizag, and Tatvam is my debut film. I auditioned for the role and was selected. Before this, I appeared in a commercial alongside Vijay Deverakonda.
How does it feel to make your debut with Tatvam?
Dashvika K: I feel lucky that my first film gives me room to perform. The story interested me as soon as I heard it. My character has emotional depth, and the village setting adds a lot to the film.
The trailer suggests your character has negative shades. Is that true?
Dashvika K: She has grey shades, but I think audiences will like her. I don’t want to reveal too much before the release.
What role does she play in the story?
Dashvika K: She is soft and kind-hearted. She supports the hero and stands by him as he investigates the killer. At heart, she is a positive character.
What can audiences expect from the film?
Dashvika K: It’s a village-set murder mystery thriller with suspense and the elements audiences expect from the genre. Similar concepts are often seen in Malayalam cinema, so I’m glad we’re telling one in Telugu. I believe the story remains engaging throughout. I’m shy in real life, which also helped me connect with my character.
When did you decide you wanted to act?
Dashvika K: I’ve loved acting since childhood. In third grade, I told my teacher I wanted to become an actress. I was interested in cinema and modelling, but I completed my studies first at my parents’ request. They fully support me now. I also trained in acting under Mahathi Bikshu.
Were you nervous about entering the film industry?
Dashvika K: Yes, I was tense because of things I had heard. Once I began working, I realised that every field has challenges you must learn to handle. My experience has gone smoothly, and the industry has been better than I expected.
How was it working with Dinesh Tej?
Dashvika K: Dinesh was very supportive and helped me a lot, particularly during the action sequences. He also has a strong role in the film.
What was director Arjun Kola like on set?
Dashvika K: He is calm and quiet, with great clarity about what he wants. I was surprised to learn that he took three months’ leave from his software job to make the film.
What are the film’s other highlights?
Dashvika K: Along with the story and narration, Chetan Bharadwaj’s music and background score are major highlights.
Does the film live up to its unusual title?
Dashvika K: We were initially unsure how people would respond to the title Tatvam, but the feedback has been positive. I believe audiences will understand how different the film is when they see it on October 2.
What kinds of roles would you like to play next?
Dashvika K: I want to explore different genres, especially love stories. I’m looking for characters that give me a good opportunity to perform.
What projects are coming up for you?
Dashvika K: A Tamil film is scheduled to begin in November, and I’m in discussions for a few Telugu projects.