Genelia D'Souza credits South Indian cinema for her most memorable roles ahead of 'Junior' release: "blessed to have received such opportunities"

Genelia D'Souza was recently seen in the Aamir Khan starrer 'Sitaare Zameen Par,' and is all set to make her return to Kannada cinema with her upcoming film 'Junior.' Recently, she shared her admiration for the South Indian film industry, calling it a space she feels gave her some of her most defining roles.

During an interview with Shemaroo Lifestyle, she addressed the misconception that she may have missed out on substantial roles in South films. Genelia said, "It would be wrong to say that South Indian films didn’t offer me meaningful characters." She shared that each regional industry she worked in has given her good roles.


"In Hyderabad, I am known as Hasini because of Bommarillu; in Tamil Nadu, I am known as Harini from Boys, and in Kerala, people remember me as Arackal Ayesha from Urumi," she shared, adding, "All the good roles I played are from the South Indian film industry, and I am blessed to have received such opportunities."

Genelia has been praised for her work in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada film industries. Despite being less active in recent years, her characters from films like Bommarillu and Santosh Subramaniam continue to have a devoted fan base.

The actress also addressed the criticism she sometimes faces for her recent choices. "Some people even judge me for the roles I played in new films," she admitted.

Her upcoming film, 'Junior', is touted to be a romantic drama film, directed by Radhakrishna Reddy, starring Kireeti Reddy in his debut as the male lead, alongside Sreeleela as the female lead.

The film is scheduled to release on July 18.