The rise of Ritu Varma as an actor has been inspiring. While she had three releases this year, her recently-released film Varudu Kavalenu is a super hit, and her role as Bhumi, a strong woman, has been lauded. She has made a conscious change in her choice of films, and it has paid off!
The Keshava star finds it heartening that filmmakers are writing strong and realistic roles for women. “I think times are changing and people are looking at content beyond regions. The audience is now exposed to world cinema, and content formats are also changing. Hence, it is natural that we expect a change in storytelling and creation of characters,” says Ritu, expressing happiness at being part of this transformation.
Pulling off strong roles is a bit challenging, says the actress, adding, “I am glad that I am able to live up to the filmmakers' expectations.” “Most of the roles I play may not resemble the real me, but they have shades of me. I could connect to every character in some way or the other. That aspect makes the role look convincing for the audience,” she feels.
“I am glad that audiences have been appreciating roles that are realistic. This role of Bhumi may have similarities with my role in Pelli Choopulu, but both characters contrasting and have their own journey,” says the actress.
Clarifying that she doesn’t have any intention of portraying only strong women, Ritu says for her, there was never a question of chasing roles.
Since she has been part of romantic entertainers and films that explore relationships, we ask her for her take on relationships. “I think relationships have become fragile and short-lived. Love and break-ups happen within no time,” she says, after pausing for thought.
In Varudu Kavalenu, in a flashback episode, Ritu plays a college-goer who falls in love with a guy. Did such things happen to her in real life too? “Yes,” she admits with a blush. “I have had crushes and puppy loves in school and college. People would send me flowers without their names. I used to feel happy,” she reveals, but shares that no one has proposed to her so far.
“Perhaps they find me a bit intimidating (laughs), but I am actually gentle,” she adds.
Asked if she has been in a relationship, the actress says, “No I haven’t. I am a die-hard romantic; when it comes to romance, I belong to the old school. I am single for now, I haven’t found a significant other yet.”
