Dhanush is a popular name in Tamil cinema; he has starred in both Hollywood films and Bollywood ones. Dhanush has appeared in a straight Telugu film for the first time. ‘Sir,’ his first Telugu film, will be released on February 17, 2023. Samyuktha plays the female lead in the film, which is directed by Venky Atluri and produced by Naga Vamsi of Sithara Entertainments.
She appeared in ‘Bheemla Nayak’ and ‘Bimbisara’ last year. This is her third Telugu film, and she is currently working on another. The following are excerpts from Samyuktha’s media interaction.
How did you get your start in the film industry?
My family and I are from a small village in Kerala. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to appear in a Malayalam film while still in school. I finished my first movie during the summer and went back to school to continue with my studies. This movie hit theatres in 2016. Later, I appeared in another Malayalam film, which inspired me to pursue a career in acting. I got my start in Malayalam films, and eventually got the opportunity to act in Telugu movies.
How did you get ‘Sir’?
After I had already signed on for “Bimbisara” and “Virupaksha,” the producers of “Bheemla Nayak,” a remake of the Malayalam hit “Ayyappanum Koshiyum,” called me. After signing with ‘Bheemla Nayak’, I met Venky Atluri, who told me the ‘Sir’ story. I knew it was something I shouldn’t miss.
How did you prepare for your role?
In this movie, I played a teacher in a small village. To learn more about the social norms and customs of rural women in Andhra, I visited several towns and villages there. I went to a few classrooms to observe the teachers in action. I am not only involved in the romantic component of the story; rather, I have a significant connection to the overarching plot as well.
So, how was it collaborating with Dhanush?
A major celebrity, he has acted in films around the world and in every major language. Dhanush is extremely quick. He inspired me at a time when I was feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of having to simultaneously navigate conversations in two languages.
Amazing how quickly you picked up Telugu!
I learned Telugu because I felt it was necessary as I am doing many Telugu films. It’s best to speak Telugu around the sets because that’s the language most people use. Being an attentive listener helped me pick up most of the Telugu dialogue.
What are your thoughts on love and marriage?
Everything stems from love. There was once a time when couples had no choice but to get hitched. It is no longer the case. Women can be financially and emotionally self-sufficient.
You previously went by Samyuktha Menon, but now you only use your first name. For what reason did you make this decision?
I refuse to accept that I belong to any particular caste (Menon represents a caste in Kerala). I aim to be a forward thinker. I’d rather not give off the impression that I’m part of special elite.
Many people make comparisons between you and Samantha. What do you think about it?
Many people have commented on how much I resemble Samantha. A compliment that I act like Samantha, however, would make my day.
