Salaar actor Sriya Reddy: ‘Cinema evolves when we write better and complex roles for women with good character arcs’

Actor Sriya Reddy in Salaar: Part 1 - Ceasefire.

Amid Salaar: Part 1 — Ceasefire's predominantly male-centric narrative, there emerges a strong feminine presence embodied by Sriya Reddy. Portraying the formidable character of Radha Rama Mannar, the daughter of Raja Mannar (Jagapathi Babu) and a temporary ruler of Khansaar, Reddy holds her own and commands respect, often outshining her male counterparts. Since the film's release, her exceptional performance has become a topic of widespread acclaim. Reddy, more of a character actor, has done more work in Tamil, including last year's Tamil web-series Suzhal: The Vortex on Prime video, and a handful in Malayalam, too. In this interview, she talks about her comeback to Telugu cinema after 2006's Amma Cheppindi and the admiration coming her way for her role in Salaar.

Reflecting on the inception of Radha Rama's character, Reddy discloses that she informed Prashanth Neel that her return to Telugu cinema hinged on the significance of her role. "He assured me that my role would be distinctive, and true to his word, it stood out. There were numerous phone calls, meetings, and look tests. By the end of this process, we had a comprehensive understanding of Radha Rama Mannar's character," she says. Edited excerpts:

What brought you back to Telugu cinema after such a long hiatus?

I told Prashanth Neel I wouldn’t come back to Telugu cinema unless my role is substantial. He promised me my role would stand out, and he’s a man of his word. There were a lot of phone calls, meetings, look tests… By the end of it all, we knew what Radha Rama Mannar was all about.

Can you share insights into your character Radha Rama Mannar's regal look in Salaar?

Apart from my performance, Prashanth Neel had a clear vision for Radha's appearance. The colour palette and jewellery were carefully chosen. Costume designer Poornima Ramaswamy did a fabulous job, avoiding prints or complicated elements that could distract from the character's personality. We opted for real silver jewellery to maintain authenticity on-screen.

How do you perceive the evolution of roles for female actors in Indian cinema, especially citing Salaar as an example?

Things have come a long way; Salaar is a testament to that. While strong male characters take centre stage, there's now room for women who hold their ground and have a voice. Filmmakers are evolving, and I've personally witnessed changes. In the past, I was warned against headstrong characters, but I chose to create new ground rules. Cinema evolves when we write better and complex roles for women with good character arcs.

How did your male co-stars, such as Prabhas, respond to your character's prominence in Salaar?

Prabhas, being a secure actor, didn't mind my character having a significant presence. He is one of the nicest human beings and supports his co-stars. Prithviraj is also wonderful, and I feel fortunate to work with such talented men.

As a Reddy, how does it feel to return to Telugu cinema?

It fills me with pride to act in Telugu again. I've also signed a film called OG with Sujeeth in Telugu. I am in love with the script; Sujeeth has penned a total winner. Working with Pawan Kalyan, Prakash Raj, and the team is exciting. Pawan Kalyan is a wonderful human being, intelligent, and witty off-screen. Like Prabhas, he lets co-stars take center stage. Working with Prakash Raj again feels like coming home, and the cinematographer, Ravi K Chandran, is my childhood friend and brilliant.

What was your first reaction when Prashant Neel approached you for the role in Salaar?

Initially, I was hesitant about the role in Salaar when Prashant Neel approached me. However, his persistence and assurance about the script's significance for my character convinced me to consider the opportunity.

What went into the development of your character, Radha Rama?

Interestingly, my character, Radha Rama, wasn't part of the original script. Prashant Neel decided to introduce a female antagonist while developing the film, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.

What were Prashant Neel's instructions regarding the portrayal of your character?

Prashant Neel was clear about not portraying my character as a typical screaming villain. He aimed for a balance between beauty and a touch of villainy, avoiding a completely menacing appearance.

Were there discussions about the appearance of Radha Rama?

Yes, there were multiple discussions regarding Radha Rama's appearance. We explored various looks, including silver ornaments and tattoos, aiming to strike the right balance without giving her a completely villainous appearance.

How was the experience working with Prabhas and Prithviraj Sukumaran?

Working with Prabhas and Prithviraj Sukumar was enjoyable. They both maintained a professional yet calm demeanour on the set, creating a positive working environment.

Can you provide insights into the narrative structure of Salaar, especially regarding its similarity to movies like Game of Thrones and Baahubali?

Salaar follows a similar pattern to movies like Game of Thrones and Baahubali, where the first part establishes the story. Salaar Part 2 is expected to delve deeper into the narrative, expanding beyond the events of the first installment.

How has your role as Radha Rama been received by the industry?

For my role as Radha Rama in Salaar, I received appreciation calls from several industry members. My character will have a more prominent presence in Salaar Part 2, and the second part will expand beyond the events of the first installment.

Can you share any details about your role in Salaar Part 2?

My character will have a more prominent presence in Salaar Part 2 and the second part is expected to expand beyond the events of the first installment.

What made you sign Pawan Kalyan's OG, and what will be your character like in that film?

I was impressed by the emotional depth and action elements in the script of Pawan Kalyan's OG. I won't be doing a negative role in it.