Bhavana Balachandran is the new Southern rage. Starting off her career in Malayalam films, this actress went on to become a huge craze in Kollywood too. Now this petite beauty is gearing up for her Tollywood venture. ‘Ontari’ that stars her opposite actor Gopichand marks her foray into Telugu films. In this exclusive chat with Bhavana, we find out more on her experiences in Tollywood.

Here are the Excerpts:

You are quite a craze in both Malluwood and Kollywood. Then what pressed you to make a move towards Tollywood now?

I never really harbored any desires to make a move towards Tollywood. As I’m not very much at home with the lingo, I preferred to stay away from it. However my producers and director for Ontari after watching my Tamil films Deepavali and Chitram Pesuthadi were eager to have me for their film. They contacted my manager who left me with the option to hear the script and then take decision. As the banner was also a prestigious one, I didn’t hesitate.

You had earlier said no to a couple of Tollywood offers including Krishnavamsi’s Rakhee?

Yes, I had to put off that film owing to date issues. As I was naïve to the workings of Telugu industry then, I didn’t give it much thought. Also I was extremely occupied with my Malayalam and Tamil projects. That’s why I had to let go of quite a many Telugu offers.

What made you say yes to Ontari then?

It was the script that basically did the trick. Also it was a big banner movie. So I decided to give it a plunge. Gopichand is an upcoming Telugu star. I was in Coimbatore when the producers and director came to give a narration. I was bowled over by the script. It was something unusual and interesting. So I gave it thumbs up.

Brief us on your role in the film?

I play this college-going sweet and simple girl called Bujji. The character is believable and all the more adorable. I just loved playing it. It’s been one of my most favorite roles so far.

Telugu films are known for their hot glam roles. Have you indulged in any such things while shooting for this film?

Yes, that true. That’s the reason why I basically stayed away from Tollywood films. However films like Okkadu and Bommarillu did help to change the notion a bit. These films showed that heroines weren’t just reduced to mere antiques in the film. Ontari is of similar nature. In this film, everything twists and turns happens due to me.

How was it working with Gopichand?

Gopichand is a fabulous actor and a very easy-going co-star.

How was B V Ramana to work with?

He is truly a nice director and very sweet. In fact our association has been a really memorable one. He helped me out with my parts and was a great support throughout.

What else in the pipeline?

I’m working in a Tamil film Jayam Kondan with Vinay. Then there is Twenty:Twenty in Malayalam with big stars like Mammootty, Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi, Dileep, Jayaram and Prithviraj.