OTT Gave Producers Courage to Explore New Genres, says Niharika Konidela
Tollywood actress Niharika Konidela is on a high, with her previous production under her Pink Elephant Pictures, Committee Kurrollu making waves at the Tollywood box office. The film is being dubbed as a runaway hit. Even though everybody thought that was her maiden production, Niharika reveals that her journey began way back in 2015 with the YouTube series Mudda pappu avakaya, even before she made her onscreen appearance.
“I didn’t transition from acting to production; I have both my feet in two different boats, and I am sailing together,” she asserts.
Niharika’s next is a web series for Sony Liv titled “Bench Life.” When asked why she always picks youthful subjects, the actor-turned-producer explained, “I don’t choose scripts unless I think the audience will enjoy consuming the content. I listen to scripts as an audience, and if I am excited, I produce it.”
Niharika’s collab with Sony Liv for “Bench Life” sprung from her interest in exploring the lives of IT professionals beyond their work. She heaped praises on director Manasa Sharma for bringing quirkiness to the show.
Commenting on the impact of OTT on the entertainment industry, Niharika said, “OTT has changed the film industry. It has brought courage to producers to explore various genres without depending on box office success.”
While production is happening on one side, Niharika has kept herself busy acting. Her next is a Tamil movie slated for release in November. Revealing the future of Pink Elephant, Niharika reveals, “We are listening to stories and have some projects in the pipeline, including films and series with Manasa.”
Having family members from politics and the film industry, Niharika says their dinner conversations often balance film and politics. Does she take inputs from her father Nagababu and brother Varun Tej? Niharika says she values feedback from them. After donning the hat of a producer, Niharika has demonstrated her versatility and passion for storytelling, whether in front of or behind the camera. And she’s raring to go.
