Playing Manju's child version

The trailer for Mohanlal, the upcoming film, was released last month and everyone was asking about the girl who turns around wearing Ray Ban sunglasses, the ‘Mohanlal way’ (reference: movie Spadikam). Some said she looks like Arya who portrayed Urvashi’s childhood in Spadikam, while some others said her look is more reminiscent of a young Manju Warrier. Krittika Pradeep has acted in only five movies and she has already become a star on social media.  Mohanlal will be the second film where she does the childhood version of Manju Warrier. The first had been her much-appreciated appearance as the younger version of Madhavikutty in Kamal’s Aami, where Manju played the lead. “It is an honour to do the childhood role of Manju chechi and I am really happy that people recognise me through my roles. I have done only five films and the reception I have been getting since my first film is wonderful. I came across some trolls mentioning the similarities in my looks with Manju chechi,” says Krittika. 

This 16-year-old actor who is busy with her SSLC exams says she has been lucky to be part of some wonderful teams and as a beginner, she considers this to be a magical journey. “My first film was Villali Veeran, a Dileep-starrer, and I still remember that I was not that afraid of my first day on the set. My uncle is a production controller and I never felt any pressure. Maybe the crew that I acted with was very friendly.” She has also featured in Aadhi, acting debut of Pranav Mohanlal. Apart from Mohanlal, another upcoming movie is Mandaram. Apart from acting, she is a good singer and has to her credit two songs that she sung in Aadhi and another she will be singing for Mandaram. “Singing in these two films came accidentally and when I got the chance, I could use it well. I have been studying classical music for the past seven years and it really helped me. I have been participating in school level competitions.”

Krittika says it wouldn't have been possible without the support of her parents, friends and teachers at school. She is a class X student at Bethany Convent Girl’s High School, Cherlayam. “My school has been very supportive. My friends and teachers helped me with the lectures and lessons,” she adds. Opportunities are pouring in for this young actor who hails from Guruvayur. She is very passionate about acting and singing and hopes to continue both.