Cine Interviews
Language is not a barrier for me: Kamalinee.

Feb 12, 2008, 14:34

Language is not a barrier for me: Kamalinee 
 
This Bengali beauty who made her debut with Revathi's Phir Milenge is an actress of substance. Her traditional-looks and acting has clicked with the audiences. She did 'Anand` followed by `Godavari` both critically acclaimed super hits. In this exclusive chat, the pretty actress opens up

Tell us about your entry into the tinsel world?

I do not have any filmi background. I entered the film industry with sea of hopes and right now, I'm swimming across giant waves. I was born and brought up in Kolkota and pursued studies in Delhi. I am a student of English literature. I happened to take up course in theatrical arts. My journey in the tinsel world began when I signed my first film Phir Milenge (directed by Revathi). I got excellent appreciation for the role. I could make it to Tollywood through Sekhar Kammula. I am thankful to Telugu audience for their great support, without which I will not be what I am today. Later, you know everything. My second film `Godavari` was also a hit and through the Tamil film directed by Gowtham Menon I got recognition in Tamil.

Your experiences with `Anand`?

Well, I played the role of Rupa around whom the entire story revolved. Sekhar Kammula specially designed the character. You try your level best to forget Rupa, still she will continue to haunt you. Though it was my first film in Telugu, I got a full-length role. My character as Rupa explores the new dimension of freedom for women. I represented the feelings of any other girl who does not like to lose her self-esteem. I went through a rocking rehearsal. Even in sleep, I dreamt of perfection. Of course, I achieved it. At the same time, I feel that Rupa's characterization is not complete.

While everybody liked you as Rupa, you found dearth in it? Please elaborate your feeling.

Words fail me. I can say I did full justice to the role. Director Sekhar too got absolute victory in finishing the mold of Rupa. Still, I feel it was incomplete. I'm continuously haunted by my own instinct, because the role Rupa passes through a tube with its end open. That way, I felt the treatment drab. Anyways, I am thrilled that it clicked, though not a product from the deepest of my heart.

Your observations on `Godavari` ?

An excellent poetic presentation of an interesting incident. Such scenes always take place across many a river. But, who cares for recording such memoirs? Here comes Sekhar's specialty. It established the impressions made in `Anand` through `Godavari` . It all happened not like a film shooting. But, like a daily choir. It was a musical presentation. The technicians from a light-boy to makeup man to a cameraman – everybody found it a pleasant experience. It will continue to be a good pictorial presentation.

Heard you found good offers in Kollywood and Kannada?

Yes. Language is not a barrier for me. Recently, my film with Kamal Hasan sir released for Telugu audience. My role, though short could make a strong impression. For the last three days, I got several calls from my well-wishers. I am thankful to them for their words of appreciation. You knew. I already did Phir Milenge. So, why should we corner ourselves to one particular zone? Where there is encouragement for talent, I love to be there.

Now, you are an actress with maturity and understanding of the film industry. Did you ever regret for not getting chances to work with big heroes?

(Turns serious) How can you say like that? You should know what you are asking. I did my first film, which had Salman Khan as the hero. Take Vettaiyadu Vilayadu (`Raghavan` in Telugu). I acted with Kamal Hasan. Also take `Style`. It's a hit movie, which has the presence of Chiranjeevi and Nagarjuna. Aren't they big heroes? I don't believe in this concept. I should be a good actress first. If I get chances to work with established stars, it would an added advantage to me to reach out to maximum number of audiences. Otherwise, I have to discharge my own duty as a committed artiste. Of course, luck will never miss a struggling soul!

You did the heroine in `Pellaindhi Kaani`. EVV has praise for your acting. How did you enjoy the moments in their unit?

I thank EVV for his humane attitude. He is one director, in whom I can see a strong urge for perfection. He took pains to shoot in Kashmir. We were skeptical of our trip. But, he convinced us and finished the shoot fruitfully. You are going to see it. Though, I lived in the North for several years, EVV made me visit Kashmir for the first time in my life. It is heaven on earth. Naresh is a superb artiste. I am puzzled at his adaptability to the multi-demands of the director. His timing is amazingly fast. I play the role of Gayatri, who loves individuality. Of course, cinematography would definitely play a major role while shooting in Kashmir. Never seen the lens for several years!

You are known as an actress who does well in heroine-oriented subjects. Do you want to continue this trend?
Who said they are heroine-oriented films? You better call them heroine-centric. This type of genre originally came from Bengali. Since the beginning, Indian cinema continues to be dominated by the male-world – both cast and crew. Things have changed a lot and also the demands of the audience. Now, a heroine has come to get lot of importance. If a movie wants to become a hit, it also requires the women segment of audience. In turn, they too want their personality come alive on the screen. In this sense, I am lucky to give two good hits. It is a successful experiment repeated after several years. `Anand` and `Godavari` brought a new trend. It may or may not continue. Who am I to decide?

What kind of encouragement you get from your parents?

They are the best parents in the world (smiles). My dad is a businessman and my mom a garment designer. They love me and my interests. What more I need?

What is your ambition?

To make my parents enjoy the ultimate bliss of happiness.