‘Pan-Indian films are welcome only if they tell native stories’

Shriya Saran, who has worked in film industries across the South, is excited about her role as Princess Madhumathi in Kabzaa

This week’s release Kabzaa, which hits theatres on Puneet Rajkumar’s birth anniversary (March 17), is set against a 1940s backdrop. It marks the return of multilingual actor Shriya Saran to the Kannada film industry after a long hiatus. The project, directed by R Chandru also stars Upendra, Kichcha Sudeep in lead roles, and Shivarajkumar in a cameo. The actress plays the role of a princess in this one, and reveals that she was excited about the effort that has gone into creating this character for the big screen.

“There is no specific reason to stay away from Kannada films for such a long time. I got busy with my other acting stints, but when Kabzaa was offered by R Chandru, I was blown away by the character’s presentation, and making style,” Shriya reveals.

A royal look as Madhumathi
The actor says, “I play the role of a princess, Madhumathi, a dancer, a strong personality who is ruled by the heart, and follows it. It is her strength and weakness too. The role transforms major characters, and shapes the storyline. The aesthetically-shot Namaami song has already gotten a great response, a positive sign. On those with thoughts lingering about how I’d fit into an action and gangster drama, there is a surprise element and it’s high on emotions too. I am glad the movie is releasing on Puneeth Rajkumar’s birth anniversary.” On her royal look, the actor credits the technical team, “They made me look so mesmerising on screen, as the character demanded. They ensured I looked at ease, bejewelled, and sari-clad to deliver my best.”

‘Stay authentic to native content’
While Pan India films are welcome, Shriya believes that one must stay authentic in portraying native content, “It is the unique nature of India, which ensures cinema crosses borders - which I can proudly vouch for as I have worked in different languages,” she concludes.