Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jun 25: Actress Radhika Narayan, reflecting on her journey in the Kannada film industry, says she feels fortunate to have completed a decade in cinema.

Hailing from Udupi, Radhika made her debut a decade ago with the critically acclaimed RangiTaranga, directed by Anup Bhandari. Looking back, she describes her journey as “fulfilling, challenging, and fortunate.”

Over the past ten years, Radhika has had the privilege of working with legends like Ananth Nag, Ramesh Aravind, and Vijay Raghavendra.

Speaking about her career, Radhika shared, “I can’t believe it’s been 10 years. It still feels surreal. Even today, RangiTaranga continues to receive a positive response. After that, I started getting good offers. When I think about the films I chose and the actors I shared the screen with, I feel incredibly grateful.”

Avoiding repetition, embracing challenge

Radhika emphasized her desire to avoid playing repetitive roles. “The biggest challenge for me is to not repeat the same kind of characters. It’s also challenging to ensure that the story and the role translate on screen the way they were envisioned and that audiences accept them. It often feels like a gamble because there’s no fixed formula for success.”

Strong roots in Udupi

“My native place is Udupi, and we’re deeply connected to the region,” she said. “My first film, RangiTaranga, explored our coastal traditions and rituals, and it was comforting to work with a team rooted in the culture of the coastal belt. Even in the films I’ve done since, there’s always been some connection to the coastal region. I’ve never felt like an outsider.”

Looking forward to Tulu films

Radhika also expressed a strong interest in working in Tulu cinema. “I’m looking forward to being part of the thriving Tulu film industry. As someone from the region, I would love to explore opportunities there.”

On working with Ramesh Aravind again

Radhika is set to collaborate with veteran actor Ramesh Aravind for the third time, after working with him in Shivaji Surathkal and Shivaji Surathkal 2. “He’s incredibly dedicated, even now. Nothing is taken for granted. Working with him feels like being in a government job,” she joked.

“Ramesh Aravind and director Akash Srivatsa share ideas so freely, and their collaboration always results in something special. Ramesh is passionate and uplifting. He’s always giving and helpful to co-actors and brings so much positive energy to the set,” she added.

Upcoming projects: Daiji and Mahaan

Talking about her next film Daiji, a psychological thriller directed by Akash Srivatsa, Radhika said, “This is probably my most challenging role since RangiTaranga. I play a character named Bhoomi, who is completely opposite to who I am. The director created a detailed character graph and provided all the references I needed. Without Akash’s support, I don’t think I could have pulled it off.”

She is also working on Mahaan, directed by P C Shekar, where she stars opposite Vijay Raghavendra. “Vijay is so grounded and talented. There’s a lot to learn from him,” she said.

Interest in comedy

Radhika revealed her desire to explore comedy as a genre. “I would love to do an out-and-out comedy. It’s a genre I find even more challenging and exciting.”