I'm glad to be among Telugus, says Vimala Raman

Multi-lingual actress Vimala Raman returns to Tollywood through the dubbed film ‘Asvins’ and she has three more Telugu films 'Anthima Theerpu ', ‘Rudrangi’ and another big ticket film ‘Gaandivadhari Arjuna’ in the pipeline. She is aware of growing competition from young divas and reserves special praise for OTT space as it explores novel themes. In an interview to Deccan Chronicle, the actress talks in detail about her future plans.

Excerpts from the interview:

Q: After a long hiatus, you are returning to T-town with 'Asvins'?

A: It is true that I am back to the Tollywood after a long gap because I was doing a couple of web series in Tamil. Also the COVID-19 lockdown came in between. I’m glad to be associated with ‘Asvins’ since it is a unique psychological thriller and it is receiving great response. Nonetheless, I am happy to be among Telugu audiences once again.

Q: We heard that you are donning a role with grey shades in ‘Rudrangi’.

A: It is a very challenging role with shades of grey as I had to play a ruthless Dorasani. The film is set in the pre-Independence era and the look and performance will be top-notch.

Similarly, I am doing an author-backed role in ‘Anthima Theerpu’ wherein I fight for justice. Above all, I am doing a key role in Varun Tej’s ‘Gandivadhari Arjuna’, while Praveen Sattaru has woven an adventurous spy thriller loaded with mystery.

Q: You have dabbled with OTT space and how was the journey?

A: It has been a unique and special experience with OTTs. Our Tamil web series ‘Pub Goa’ on Zee 5 grabbed huge eyeballs as it was a gripping crime thriller. I like the platform because it gives ‘exciting’ roles for actors while makers could explore novel themes to showcase their talent.

Honestly, OTTs have blurred the language and regional barriers as they can be viewed by anyone, anywhere. As I can watch a series made in Korean or Spanish sitting at home and the same way Telugu or Tamil series will be enjoyed across the globe.

Q: Do you feel threatened by the advent of new-age actresses?

A: I am happy that new actresses are showing a lot of confidence and a few of them are quite talented too. I was never in the number game because I had been a multi-lingual actress and explored challenging roles in the Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada industries. I would love to do an interesting role in the Hindi web series because Bollywood guys are experimenting with engaging and captivating stuff these days.