Ramya, quite irrefutably, the queen of Sandalwood

Tell us about your role in Katari Veera Surasundarangi (KVSS)…
I play the role of Indraja, Lord Indra’s daughter. The story is that of a mythological character who falls in love with a mortal. It takes place in heaven.

Your costumes seem to be among the highlights of the film...
My costumes and jewellery have generated a lot of interest and the credit must go to my producer, Munirathna. The costumes were made by my Chennai- based stylist, Uma. Not only did it take a lot of time for me to get into them and wear the heavy head gears but it also took time for her to make them. In fact, they would be ready just in time for the shoot. So, Munirathna sir actually had the costumes flown in from Chennai to Hyderabad, where we were shooting, every single time!

You are teaming up with Upendra for the second time, how is he as a co-star? Also how was the experience of working with a veteran actor like Ambareesh?
Upendra is very creative, so it is wonderful to have him as a co-star. He has written the dialogues for the film and thus helped me a lot with my dialogue rendition and intonations. As for Ambareesh uncle, I can’t think of anyone else who could have played the part of Yama so perfectly. I’m glad that I got an opportunity to work with him.

The release of the film was delayed due to various reasons, did that bother you?
The movie was postponed only by a week so the delay didn’t bother me at all. It’s finally releasing today; I’m looking forward to the reactions of the audience.

You complete a 10-year stint in the Kannada film industry this year, how has the journey been so far?
Honestly, I haven’t had the time to pause and think about it. I feel the time has just flown by. But I can say that every film I have been part of has taught me something. I’m humbled by these experiences. Films have enabled me to meet a lot of people who I couldn’t have hoped to meet otherwise. Ultimately, I am very proud of what I have achieved.

You debuted in Rajkumar’s home production, Abhi. Can you recall your association with the late actor? Also tell us about the other people who have supported you in this industry…
Rajkumar sir was very fond of me. I feel lucky to have debuted in his home production. As for the others in the industry, Ambareesh uncle, Munirathna uncle and Rockline uncle have, among many others, stood by me. Media, my fans and technicians have also showered me with unconditional love and support.

Which would you rate as your best role, so far?
Sanju Weds Geeta, Vaaranam Aayiram and now KVSS have brought out the best in me.

Controversies and criticisms notwithstanding, you have reigned over the industry, what is your success mantra?
I have always fought my own battles and remained true to my conscience. I never succumbed to the pressures of the industry either, and that’s what’s worked for me.

If any, what are the changes you would wish to see in the Kannada industry?
I wish to see unity in the industry. I also want to see our industry reach greater heights. We have extremely talented directors and technicians here and it’s just that they don’t get the platform they deserve to showcase their creativity due to limited budgets. But KVSS is an example of what a team can create if a producer is passionate about cinema.

In the recent past you have turned down quite a few projects including a Malayalam film and reports suggest remuneration as the reason. Is that so?
I said no to a Kannada film as it was the remake of a film called Alone. I turned down another one as I did not like the story. As for the Malayalam film, yes, I let it go as I was not satisfied with the remuneration. I deserve my due after all. But there have been occasions where I have done films even if it meant compromising on the remuneration. While signing a film, the script, my character and the team become important. If all these things fall into place along with the remuneration only then do I do the film.

Are you doing another film with the Sidlingu team called Calcutta Saada? What are your upcoming projects?
We are still in talks regarding Calcutta Saada. Nothing is official, yet. That apart, I will soon be hearing the script of Johnny Mera Naam Preethi Mera Kaam 2. I’m also doing Kodi Ramakrishna sir’s first Kannada film. There is also NH4, a Vetrimaaran production, in which I make a guest appearance. The film was being shot in Bangalore and I went to the sets to meet my friend and actor Siddharth. This was when I was asked to make a friendly appearance and I obliged. I will be shown hearing a script from a film-maker in a coffee shop in the film. With my recent releases Lucky and Sidlingu being well received, 2012 has proved to be a great year for me. I hope the year continues to bring me luck.