Kalyani sports desi look in her next

Kalyani Priyadarshan, who made a confident debut with Hello, has started shooting for her next film, set in the 80s. Directed by Sudheer Varma, the film, touted to be a gangster drama, also features Sharwanad in the lead, and was shot recently in Visakhapatnam and Kakinada.

While Kalyani does not want to share too many details about her character, she tells us that it’s completely desi. “A lot of research went behind every costume and hairstyle I sport in the film. The film presents me in a traditional avatar wearing ethnic clothes. My father was pleased with my transformation and the entire credit should go to my Hyderabad-based stylist Ashwin Mawle and director Sudheer for focusing on every minute detail and getting the combination right.”

The actor says she was apprehensive about the first day's shoot as it was a new team. But, all her inhibitions were cleared on the same day when the unit members threw a surprise party to celebrate her birthday. “I had my apprehensions, but that sweet gesture from the unit helped to break the ice, and to develop an enduring bond,” she adds.

So what exactly does it take to play a period character? Kalyani says, “Sudheer Varma gave me a vivid narration of my character and most of the inputs came from him. The role requires me to emote subtly with my eyes. Regardless of the backdrop, the emotions have to stand out. I rely on my preparations and his instructions. I’m now looking forward to starting shooting for the new schedule in Hyderabad.”