Ahead of the theatrical release of 'Shyam Singha Roy' on December 24, Sai Pallavi talks at length about her character, how she approached it, teaming up with the Nani-Rahul Sankrityan duo, and much more.
I got a certain idea of the character while reading the script of 'Shyam Singha Roy'. Playing a Devadasi was an experiential moment, considering I got to understand the psychology of a Devadasi dancer.
Dance has played a role in my career only twice: In 'Love Story' and in 'Shyam Singha Roy'. In the latter, dance is not a crucial element, unlike in the former.
This is my second film with Nani garu. 'MCA' was a different ball game. My characters are distinct, the situations are deeper here. I am comfortable with him as a co-star. We indulged in discussions to refine our work.
I didn't learn Classical dancing. The dancers in my group in 'Shyam Singha Roy' are trained dancers. So, it was naturally intimidating. The costumes, the hairdo, the body language.. everything is specific here. I didn't study the Devadasi system specifically for this movie. We all know that the system acquired exploitative features over the centuries. This film doesn't wage a finger at all those features. It only speaks out to the extent required.
I asked the director if I can look rawer. The magnitude of rawness you will see is what the script needed. I worked within the constraints of my character. I enjoyed exploring a character with mythical features. Before the film came my way, I didn't pine for such a character consciously.
The film is not preachy. At the end of 'SSR', you will know thoroughly about the protagonists. The story will keep you invested in them. The backdrop has been chosen, keeping in mind Shyam Singha Roy's background.
I like to figure things out about myself. I like exploring how I feel about myself. I like to meditate, try things that make me think deeply. I like to know something more about myself - about my higher self.
I am indebeted to my directors. It's because of them that I am what I am today as an actress. I establish a thorough connection with my onscreen characters so that my performance looks refined.
I like to meditate. I want to be a deeper thinker in life. Things concerning the higher self engage me.
The production works of 'Virata Parvam' were wrapped up recently. I am yet to complete the dubbing portions, though.
