The rise of the mother figure

Senior actresses are much in demand to play mothers and mothers-in-law in Telugu films as stars and filmmakers want the characters to look younger and fresh.

The actresses who are in contention for these roles are Radhika Sarath Kumar, Tulasi, Madhubala, Rohini, Ramya Krishna and Anu Haasan among many others.

“The trend has now changed. Earlier the subjects concentrated on the lead pair and villains. Now, filmmakers want to highlight a woman," says Tulasi, who played Prabhas' mother in 'Darling'. “After marriage I took a break and am now starting my third innings," she adds.

Radhika Sarath Kumar, too, is now making her comeback to Telugu films. She too will play a mother in a film to be directed by Arun Kumar. “When we designed the character we felt that Radhika would be perfect for it. We approached her and she liked and accepted it," says director Arun. He adds that the senior actresses are talented and sincere.

Madhubala of 'Roja' fame, who made a comeback with 'Anthaku Mundu Aa Tharuvtha', is now doing a Tamil film. “I read somewhere that Madhubala was planning on a comeback. We approached her and she agreed to do it," says Indraganti Mohana Krishna, director of that film.

He, however, adds that this is not a new trend. “When you take these experienced actresses, you have to give them prominent characters, otherwise, it may not work out," says Indraganti, adding that these actresses always look fresh.

“The curiosity factor is there. When an actress comes back after a break, it adds a lot of nostalgia to the film. But again it depends on how important her character in the film is."

Another actress who is in demand is Rohini. She plays Nani's mother in 'Ala Modalaindi'. Meanwhile, Anu Haasan is playing Mahesh Babu's mother in 'Aagadu'.

“I have seen a lot of mothers in society who actually shows interest in their looks and health. With that in mind we approached Nadhiya to play Prabhas' mother and it worked very well," says Koratala Siva, director of 'Mirchi' adding that characters played by known actresses definitely add a fresh look.