'Amigos' is all set to hit the cinemas on February 10. Starring Kalyan Ram Nandamuri in three roles, the film marks the debut of Kannada actress Ashika Ranganath. In this interview, the newcomer talks about her experience of doing the thriller.
I don't come from a film background. My sister Anusha has acted in TV serials. As a teen, I used to give dance shows and performances. I participated in a Clean and Clear Fresh Face Bangalore contest and that's when my photos were out in the public domain. I slowly landed an opportunity with a Kannada movie titled 'Crazy Boy'. That's how my journey began.
Before this movie, I did receive some offers from Tollywood. I used to have problems with call sheets back then. Then came the pandemic because of which there was stagnancy. My social media followers used to always ask me about my Telugu debut. Many people have been wanting to watch me in Tollywood. And here I am.
Director Rajendra Reddy narrated the storyline to me on phone. I liked my character. And the concept of three doppelgangers is unique.
Coming to my character, she is a Radio Jockey who is so unique. She is particular about how she wants to be and what kind of a man she wants to settle down with. She rejects one match after another in match-making. The character is both funny and cute. My screen time may not be full-fledged but I got enough space to perform. For a debut actress, the character is substantial. Above all, I got to work with a banner like Mythri Movie Makers, who have been very successful in taking their films to the audience. And then, the hero is a noted name.
Both Kalyan Ram sir and I are similar in terms of not being so talkative. As the shoot advanced, he opened up. Despite coming from a big family, he is so down to earth. It was lovely to see him play three characters and how he brought out the differentiation so well. There is so much to learn from him.
The promo of the song 'Enno Rathrulosthayi' has been loved by the audience. Ever since it was released yesterday, people have been putting out messages welcoming me to Telugu cinema. It's an iconic song that has been remixed. It's easy for the audience to connect with such a song. It was shot on four different sets.
I have done about 10 films in Kannada. In Tamil, I have done one project. Telugu films are made on a huge canvas. Even the promotions are very extensive here. Kannada films are catching up slowly. In Telugu, the importance of big banners is huge. I want to explore all languages for the sake of gaining experience and tasting versatility. When you are open to multiple languages, your pool increases. You have so many options to choose from.
I do watch good Telugu movies. I am working on my Telugu that way.
