Meenakshi Chaudhary on Anaganaga Oka Raju, comedy and next films

With “Anaganaga Oka Raju” gearing up for a festive Sankranthi release on January 14, 2026, expectations are riding high. Starring Naveen Polishetty and Meenakshi Chaudhary, the film is produced by Suryadevara Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas. Ahead of the release, Meenakshi Chaudhary shared her thoughts on the film and her role.

Last year you have scored biggest hit with Sankranthiki Vastunnam. This Sankranthi you have come up with this Anaganaga Oka Raju. How does it feel?

Sankranthi has been very lucky for me. After Sankranthiki Vastunnam, returning with Anaganaga Oka Raju during the same festive season feels special. I’m confident audiences will enjoy this film as well.

Tell us about your character in the film.

I play Charulatha, a rich, pampered girl who is soft, innocent, and emotional. She’s brought up like a princess and has a very cute way of expressing herself. It’s a full-fledged comedy role, which is new for me.The director gave me a clear brief. I also drew inspiration from people I had observed earlier in life who had similar traits. Charulatha is quite different from my real personality, so I had to consciously stay in character throughout. This is my first proper comedy-centric role. It helped me explore a new side as an actor.

How was it working with Naveen Polishetty?

It was a great learning experience. Naveen’s sense of timing is exceptional, and his style of comedy is very different. Comedy depends entirely on rhythm, and this film pushed me to improve my timing. It’s the most challenging role I’ve done so far.

You also have dance numbers in the film. How was that experience?

There are fun mass songs like Bhimavaram Balma and Raju Gari Pelliro. I usually feel shy while dancing, but on this set, it felt very comfortable. We enjoyed shooting every song.

What do you look for while choosing a script?

Heroine roles have become much stronger now. I’m happy to be doing varied characters. Each film has shown me in a different light, and this one adds yet another dimension. When signing a film, I consider the story first. I focus on how well the role is written and how the director plans to present it. A strong role in a good story matters more than anything else.

What’s next for you?

I’m currently working on “Vrushakarma” with Naga Chaitanya. A few other projects are in discussion and will be announced soon.