I am extremely choosy about my films: Ritu Varma

Hyderabadi girl Ritu Varma finally tasted success with the recent smash hit ‘Pelli Choopulu’. The gorgeous actress is all set to sizzle on screen once again in Nikhil-starrer ‘Keshava’ which is releasing on May 19. She spoke to our The Hans Talkies on ‘Keshava’ and her career.

Q. Your last release ‘Pelli Choopulu’ was in July 2016. One would have expected you to sign a slew of films following the success of that film?
A. Yes, it has been a long time. But I would not like to do all and any kind of roles unless they add value to the script. I am not against doing glamour roles per se, but having said that, the role should have some significance. Also, I would like to do one film at a time as it gives me immense scope in selecting the best possible role.

Q. What has been the biggest takeaway from ‘Pelli Choopulu’ for you?
A. The appreciation I received for my performance. Critics and audiences alike now say that ‘This girl’ is a performer. This makes me extremely happy. I got ‘Keshava’ and ‘Dhruva Natchathiram’ (Tamil) only because of my acting in that film. In fact, I first did a short film called ‘Anukokunda’ that went viral on
youtube. Pleased with my ability in that short film, I got my first opportunity as a heroine with ‘Naa Rakumarudu’. So, yes, performance does indeed matter to me.

Q. Tell us about your role in ‘Keshava’
A. I play a law student called ‘Sathyabhama’ in this film. She is initially against the hero who commits a series of murders but wholeheartedly supports him once she finds out the reason behind his acts. To date, I have done mainly ‘feel-good films but ‘Keshava’ is a welcome break from that genre. It is a dark revenge drama, a serious film.

Q. You are working with a super star Vikram, for the first time in your career in the Tamil flick ‘Dhruva Natchathiram’. What has the experience been like?
A. I was called for an audition to Chennai by Gautham Menon and offered the project. The first time I met Vikram on location, I told him that I was a huge fan of his work and that it was a privilege to share screen space with him. He smiled in reply and immediately made me feel comfortable. He is a perfect gentleman and I’ll cherish working for the film forever. It was a great learning experience working with Gautham and Vikram.